Esbjerg fishermen revive past with weekly summer auctions

Esbjerg fishermen are hauling their catch from Hanstholm in northern Jutland to keep tradition alive, Danish broadcaster DR reports.

The port of Esbjerg was once Denmark’s largest fishing harbour, but no fish have been landed there for years. To preserve the past, veteran fishermen now drive to Hanstholm for fresh stock, then return to Esbjerg to sell it.

Every Wednesday in July, they hold a fish auction in the old auction hall at Esbjerg Harbour, recreating the scenes of former times for tourists and visitors. Geert Gregersen, 80, has worked as an auctioneer for over 50 years. The oldest participant in the tourist auction will turn 93 later this month.