Fjord Angler

By Austen Dack

Perched at the top of Norway’s Western Fjord country, picture-perfect Alesund is spread over several islands stretching into the Atlantic, with the spectacular Sunnmøre Mountains as a backdrop. On arrival we made our way to the impressive Alnes Lighthouse with its fantastic ocean views, where we enjoyed a delicious welcome dinner with local seafood including the biggest Langoustines I have ever seen, and a fish broth previously enjoyed by the Queen of Norway the highlights. It was a chance for the winners to get to know each other and for us to be joined by industry representatives from the Norwegian Frozen at Sea group and invited guests.

The next day it was time to board the towering Norwegian frozen-at-sea vessel Atlantic and depart for a memorable daytrip in the Fjords. With waterfalls tumbling down cliffs, snow topped peaks, and the (unusual so I’m told) warmth of the sun and the light dazzling, it created a beautiful and uplifting experience that brought a sense of joy and positivity.

On board we experienced first-hand the state-of-the-art longliner to see for ourselves Norway’s sustainable fisheries practices. Atlantic built in 2020 is around 64 metres in length (around the width of Wembley Stadium). It is one of the longliners producing fillets onboard, mainly of cod and haddock for the UK market. They also produce fillets of tusk, ling and saithe for the Norwegian market and for export. It has 11 fishing trips yearly with a crew of 18 mainly from Norway. On hand to oversee our trip was KjellGunnar Hoddevik co-owner and captain of Atlantic.

Below deck we visited the crew quarters, kitchen, rest room areas, cinema room and much more. We also saw the catching and manufacturing areas too. Atlantic was designed with the very best equipment and technology to ensure that the fish is treated in the best possible way from catch until it’s frozen on board literally within hours. The well being of the crew is paramount too.

On day three we took a visit to Ellingsøy and one of Norway’s largest producers of wild caught fish, Brødrene Sperre for an introduction and tour of their processing facility. Their Commercial Director Kjetil Sperre took time out to show us around. With the world’s best fishing grounds right outside their factories, the fishermen are able to bring raw material of the highest quality. Brødrene Sperre dedicates every available resource in preserving this quality and freshness in every step of production.

This trip was simply fantastic for all concerned. It was a delight to be part of this award-winning group which created friends for life. My thanks to everyone who participated from Norway especially Victoria Braathen SFN UK Director and trip organiser, and the Captain and Crew of Atlantic.