Fishing Zealand Magazine_English by Megalops

FISHING ZEALAND magazine 2016

Green Growth:

SUSTAINABLE FISHING TOURISM

Conservation Efforts: VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Children & Youth:

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Welcome to Fishing Zealand Magazine Fishing Zealand is involved in a vast array of activities, events and initiatives aimed at developing and promoting sustainable fishing on Zealand. We work with fishing tourism initiatives, children & young people, conservation and much, much more – and it can be difficult to understand and appreciate the full magnitude of our work. This is one of the reasons we have decided to produce a Fishing Zealand magazine. Now that we have your full attention and 52 pages to provide you with examples of our work and ethics, we hope that you’ll become better acquainted with what we stand for. (It’s a shame that we can’t fit everything that’s going on into the magazine). The Fishing Zealand project is in constant development, and the number of new municipalities and business partners is continuously increasing. And this means that a lot will probably have happened since this magazine was printed. We’re very proud that things are moving forward – and at such a pace. And we hope that this magazine will make you wiser as to what Fishing Zealand is all about – and maybe even motivate you to get involved in the development of Zealand’s sustainable fishing tourism. You’re welcome!

Fishing Zealand Magazine Editor in Chief: Gordon P. Henriksen Editor: Rasmus Ovesen Layout and production: Thomas Søbirk Repro: Klaus Rudbæk, Retouch IT Front cover: Allan Overgaard Photos: Rasmus Ovesen, Gordon P. Henriksen, Thomas Søbirk, Nikolaj Korsholm, Rune Westphal, Niels Lagergaard Pedersen, Frederik Lorentzen, Morten Nielsen, Peter W. Henriksen, Niels Vestergaard, Kaare Manniche Ebert, Uffe Clemmensen, Kristian Ørsted Pedersen, Claus Eklundh Christensen, Bjørn Skjønning Andersen, Nikolaj Martins, Thomas Ix, John Olsen/photodan.dk, Jonas Kærlin, Ken Sørensen, Jan Svenstrup, Lars Juel Hansen, Claus Christiansen, Rasmus Juel Ditlevsen, Rune Hylby. Circulation: 25.000

River restoration for young people: The Trout Patrol

Fishing Zealand – A broad and successful collaboration

Handle the fish with care

See what Fishing Zealand is about

Visions for the Southern Zealand brackish waters

The sunny side of Lejre: Ecology, nature experiences and fishing

Become a better fisherman – Hire a fishing guide

Certified Fishing Zealand guides

Festivities & feisty mackerel on Sjaellands Odde

Fishing is excitement, grand experiences – and big business

Zealand is a seatrout epicenter with fish from near and far

The Danish Surf Casting Championship was a great success

Fishing Zealand’s youth events experience big growth spurts

The volunteers make a difference

Seatrout a la Moen: Bladderwrack-smoked seatrout

FZ Business Partners: Cooperation and local anchoring

What is ”Sustainable Fishing”?

The annual Fishing Zealand Conference

RIVER RESTORATION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE:

T H E T RO U T PAT RO L For more info

www.fishingzealand.dk/ baeredygtigt-lystfiskeri/ orredpatruljen Here you can see Niels Vestergaard’s film about the Trout Patrol

With the assistance of municipal authorities, Fishing Zealand and Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation and initiator Uffe Clemmensen have created an exciting educational course for young people in Roskilde Kommune – an educational course that focuses on river and fish conservation management. Now, the concept is ready for a nation-wide launch.

Recently, the mayor of Roskilde Kommune, Joy Mogensen, handed out diplomas to a new team of proud Trout Patrol graduates. It all happened at the dedication of the newly restored Trekroner River. Water restoration is one of the key words in the Trout Patrol’s educational and practical foundation. Since the start in late 2014, the Trout Patrol has developed into a massive success, and it’s all due to the commitment that comes to life when the young people are imprinted with a sense of responsibility for nature.

Young People Secure the Future of the Rivers The purpose of the Trout Patrol is to enable young people to improve the future of the rivers and the sea trout populations. The project was envisioned by Uffe Clemmensen, the chairman of Roskilde og Omegns Lystfiskerklub (ROLK), who has worked on similar projects in the school system for the past few years. - The fishing clubs are obligated to give the young people an understanding and appreciation of nature, Uffe says. - They need to experience all the

4 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

exciting things that bind human beings and nature together. In the Trout Patrol, we also focus on young people with special needs. Unfortunately, today a lot of young people are on medication, because they don’t fit into the framework young people! The Nordea Foundation, Friluftsraadet, Roskilde Kommune, Fishing Zealand and Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation all support the project, and they have helped Uffe Clemmensen and DSF’s environmental consultant, Kaare Manniche Ebert, develop the educational material. -The Trout Patrol has been an exciting project to develop, Uffe says. – As project manager for Roskilde Oplevelseshavn (Experienceharbor) I have prepared

by GORDON P. HENRIKSEN

and executed educational courses for 300 young people in the local river, Geddebækrenden. It’s from here that my experiences derive. It’s a real pleasure seeing the enthusiasm and eagerness of these young people when they come to understand the life cycle of the trout – and how they can help.

Responsibility for Nature The idea behind the Trout Patrol is to equip the young people with a set of skills

THE TROUT PATROL

Mayor Joy Mogensen dedicated Trekronerbækken and handed out diplomas to the Trout Patrol graduates together with Uffe Clemmensen from ROLK and Gordon P. Henriksen from Fishing Zealand.

The Trout Patrol is an educational course for young people between 14 and 20 years old. It focuses mainly on trout biology, river restoration and management, sustainability and engagement in nature. The educational program is based on equal amounts of theory and practice. During the course the young people are taught in depth about the trout’s biology and life cycle, and they gain practical experience with river and fish conservation management efforts. Teachers with professional competence and pedagogical training are responsible for teaching the young people. The program consists of 3 x 3 classes of theory and practice, and they all take place as a part of the participants’ individual schools or institutions. The practical classes involve fauna-analyses, fish stocking and restoration work, and they take place in local rivers. Follow-up course activities in river management are also part of the program.

that enable them to help with the practical responsibilities of river and fish conservation management. Furthermore, the goal of this education is to sharpen their interest in nature, build social ties, create a willingness to learn and boost self-confidence. As such, their education contains an element of social responsibility, and it harmonizes very well with Fishing Zealand’s ambitions to embrace young people by giving them meaningful experiences via an engagement in nature. It is a brilliant

example of how municipalities, clubs and institutions can cooperate and create added value. - The first graduating Trout Patrol classes clearly demonstrated that we’re engaging these young people in a new and different way that creates a heightened sense of responsibility and willingness. And now we’re ready to introduce the concept in new municipalities, Uffe continues. – The ambitions are big!

The Future At the moment the Trout Patrol concept is being introduced to a number of Fishing Zealand municipalities. The aim is that all Fishing Zealand municipalities will be able to offer this educational course, and there are even plans to disseminate the project even further across the nation. If one thinks about how important a resource these young people represent in terms of managing the water environment and the fish stocks, it all makes perfect sense. - With Trout Patrols along the rivers, our precious fish stocks will have a brighter future, and our young people will pride themselves in making a difference, Uffe explains. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

FISHING

6 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

ZEALAND – a Broad And Successful Collaboration

by GORDON P. HENRIKSEN

Fishing Zealand is an ambitious project that consists of various business partners. Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation, several Zealand municipalities, and volunteer fishermen who work together with local businesses and tourism agencies in order to develop sustainable fishing tourism and better fishing possibilities throughout the region. The project is highly beneficial to the fishing tourism sector and local business growth, but also to the environment and to us fishermen.

Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation (DSF) brought up the idea... ...of Fishing Zealand in 2010. They wanted an increased focus on the Zealand water environment and a deeper common understanding of the importance of healthy and self-sustaining natural resources. In 2010 – on a snowy Saturday – a meeting was held in Næstved, initiated by DSF. Here, the idea of a Zealand-version of Seatrout Fyn was aired. This prompted DSF’s chairman and mayors from Odsherred Kommune and Vordingborg Kommune to meet in Vordingborg on the 13th of September 2011. During the meeting we took a serious look at each other and agreed to give a ‘Seatrout Zealand’ project a chance. Since then several municipalities have joined, with more following their lead. And the name has been changed to ‘Fishing Zealand’, since all fish species need attention.

We now concentrate on a variety of focus areas including brackish pike and perch, P&T, coarse and sea fishing events for kids, and fishing tourism initiatives such as the Mackerel Festival. Zealand has so much to offer!

Fishing Zealand’s Vision The tourism agencies in the different municipalities are well aware of the great potential that recreational fishing holds. The report “The Socio-Economic Value of Recreational Fishing in Denmark”, published by The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries in 2010, concludes that recreational fishing is extremely valuable. Fishing tourists from all over Denmark and Europe constitute a consumer segment that represents a total tourism revenue of 2,9 billion crowns a year. Fishing Zealand works together with the tourism agencies and business councils in the different municipalities to increase the number of visiting fishing tourists and thus the regional revenue. It’s important, however, that our work is

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

MEMBER MUNICIPALITIES IN FISHING ZEALAND

As of November 1st 2015, the list of member municipalities looks like this. (Several additional municipalities will probably already have joined by the time you read this). Odsherred Kommune (Initiator in 2011) Vordingborg Kommune (Initiator in 2011) Roskilde Kommune (2013) Guldborgsund Kommune (2014) Gribskov Kommune (2015) Kalundborg Kommune (2015) Lejre Kommune (2015) Stevns Kommune (Joining in early 2016)

Fishing Zealand was launched in 2013, and it has quickly developed into a successful, large-scale project.

In time we hope that all Zealand municipalities will join our project. But we also make demands. The member municipalities commit themselves to working proactively with lake and river management in order to improve the spawning and habitat conditions for trout, pike, perch and other species. This is the case when it comes to water quality, water flows, passage and physical variation. Rivers, lakes, tidal areas and coastal shores of the highest quality are essential for ensuring sustainable fishing – something that is highly valued by many native and foreign fishing tourists, and something that generates local economy.

sustainable, and that it will remain beneficial to fishermen, tourism focus area. businesses and fish stocks for many years to come. • It is important to us that recreational fishing and all the associaWe know that what makes a destination attractive to fishing ted initiatives are based on sustainable principles. tourists is first and foremost fish. Therefore, we work together to enhance the environmental conditions and fish stocks. Fishing Zealand rests on a principle of reliability and responsibility. Fishing Zealand’s vision is ”to create memorable experiences of In this regard, sustainability is important. We mustn’t just exploit international caliber for fishermen and their families”. – we also need to protect and improve the fish stocks! We cannot In order to live up to afford to oversell our product. If Fishing Zealand’s goals, buthe fish stocks diminish, so will ”During the meeting we took a serious siness partners are expected the number of visiting fishing to participate in conservation LOOK AT EACH OTHER AND AGREED tourists. Services and events need work, to develop and imto give a ”Seatrout Zealand” project a chance. to be adapted carefully to local prove the quality of services conditions, both when it comes and facilities that relate to to numbers and scope. and support local fishing tourism and to host activities for children and young people. Increased Focus on the Environment Fishing Zealand focuses on our natural resources. Several of our Fishing Zealand is built on several pillars, with focus areas are based on careful management of fish stocks, inclurecreational fishing as the focal point.: ding work aimed at improving habitat and spawning conditions. • Without a solid environment, no fish – without fish, no recreatioFZ municipalities and fishermen work together to make sure nal fishing. This means that we’re working on healthy fish stocks by things are on the right track. Volunteer work provides an invaluasecuring good spawning and habitat conditions. ble helping hand when it comes to securing healthy rivers and fish • We see recreational fishing as a positive and healthy interest, and stocks. Therefore we see it as one of our responsibilities to support working with fishermen – the volunteers – is an important part of and coordinate volunteer efforts. There are many interests attached to enhancing the fish stocks. rivers, lakes and coastal shores, and – unfortunately – not all interested • We want to make sure that fishing is passed on to future generations parties focus on the aquatic environment. Generally, there’s a lack of – so we make a point of working with children and young people. understanding, and this is where information and cooperation become • We aim at building local foundations for increased tourism reveimportant factors – factors that Fishing Zealand excels in. nues, for instance by extending the traditional tourism seasons. We also work with creating business clusters that can further develop The Taskforce for Recreational Fishing recommends fishing tourism. Fishing Zealand • Events that promote all these initiatives comprise an important Former Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Dan Jør-

8 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

SUSTAINABLE FISHING TOURISM Fishing tourism creates business growth, new jobs and strengthens the local economy. Nationally, recreational fishing contributes with approximately 3 million overnight stays and about 2.9 billion crowns in turnover. In other words, Fishing Tourism is a healthy business, and it is a business that Fishing Zealand is keen on developing – for instance by working with:

Fishing Zealand is a collaborative effort including Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation, several Zealand municipalities, a wide array of businesses and clubs – and a whole lot of volunteers. Together, we’re making sure that regional fishing tourism and natural resources are given priority.

• Assisting the municipalities and tourism agencies in their fishing tourism ventures • Consulting and collaborating with local businesses • Developing informational material, pamphlets and videos • Developing facilities, events and services • Establishing networks of certified guides • Production of relevant informatio-

Fishing Zealand has produced signs for Stege Harbor to inform fishermen of the special regulations and rules that have been introduced in the Southern Zealand brackish waters.

Fishing Zealand is aware of social responsibilities. Children and young people should be introduced to fishing, which in turn should be coupled with learning and respect for the environment.

nal material about Fishing Zealand • Collaboration with national and international fishing media • Propagation of the financial aspects of the fishing tourism sector In order to promote recreational fishing and create memorable experiences for fellow fishermen of all ages we work extensively with a large variety of events. For instance, Fishing Zealand is involved in: • The Mackerel Festival on Zealand’s Point (Sjællands Odde) • The Danish Brackish Water Cup on Møn • The Sunny Side of Lejre • ”Session” on Møns Klint • The Danish Surfcasting Championships in Tisvilde • A long list of fishing trips, courses, competitions and educational courses etc.

Fishing Zealand creates new partnerships and promotes river restoration. Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation and Fishing Zealand also support the important breeding and stocking work that is done under the auspices of Zealand’s Trout Union.

Fishing Zealand provides certified guides and lots of fishing gear for fishing events aimed at children and beginners.

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES Fishing Zealand works with the following initiatives:

”Fishing Zealand’s vision is TO CREATE MEMORABLE experiences of international caliber for

FISHERMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES ”

• Improvement of river habitat by – for instance – laying out spawning gravel and removing man-made barriers. • Intensified focus on the factors that limit fish stocks in saltwater • Intensified focus on the environmental state of lakes and fjords • Continuation of the serious breeding and stocking work carried out under the auspices of Sjællands Ørredsammenslutning (Zealand’s Trout Union) • Involvement of volunteers in environmental efforts • Production of informational material about regulations and good fisherman conduct • Introduction of restrictions and regulations aimed at creating sustainability • Political collaboration that promotes all our goals • Surveillance of illegal net fishing • Junior work • Spawning nest and smolt surveys

gensen, and the Ministry of Environment and Food created a stocks or the aquatic environment. On the contrary, the increases taskforce in 2014 to survey and debate fishing and fishing tourism in revenue should be used to restore and protect the fish stocks. in Denmark. Having grown explosively, and being recognized for These goals are clearly evident in the report produced by its results and success in developing locally-anchored sustainable the taskforce. The first sentence of the report established this fishing tourism, Fishing Zealand was invited to participate. And irrevocably: Fishing Zealand’s methods and strategies ended up being recom”Denmark should promote itself like other mended by the taskforce. pioneer countries in Europe with sustainable The taskforce on recreational fishing tourism was comprised environmental management where recreational of some of the country’s foremost experts from various authorifishing is based on wild, self-reproducing stocks ties, organisations and clubs focusing on recreational fishing and that - to a large extent – are the result of environtourism: Jan Bjarni Bjarnason – Videncenter for Kystturisme mental and river restoration”. (Center for Coastal Tourism), Martin Lerkenfeldt Jensen – Seatrout Fyn, Jakob Munkhøj Nielsen Some of the report’s most cen– Ministry of Environment ”Even though increased tourism revenues via tral recommendations were: and Food, Kaare Manniche THE PROMOTION OF RECREATIONAL Ebert – Denmark’s Sportfish• Sustainable fisheries manafishing is beneficial to society as a whole, ing Federation, Lars Bendix gement based on biological THE ASSOCIATED DEVELOPMENTS consultancy and supported by Poulsen – Naturstyrelsen (The Nature Agency), Niels-Henrik shouldn’t be at the expense of the fish stocks or proactive water environment Larsen – Ministry of Business and conservational efforts THE WATER ENVIRONMENT” and Growth, Claus Henriksen, • Clear and visible net and fish Go Fishing, Lars Henriksen -Vandpleje Fyn and many more. trap markings that signal the difference between the two – to the In addition to being a kind of think tank and debate forum for benefit of fishermen and others who enjoy nature the further development of Danish fishing tourism, the taskforce • Development of the core product by strengthening volunteer work has served the more practical function of producing a report • Production of socio-economic reports that document the imwith recommendations for the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and portance of fishing tourism initiatives Fisheries and the Danish government. Here, Fishing Zealand and • Establishment of facilities and services in close proximity to the the other participating parties have focused greatly on sustainamost popular fishing spots bility – because even though increased tourism revenues via the • Protection of the natural surroundings that attract tourists promotion of recreational fishing is beneficial to society as a whole, • The LAG’s (Local Activity Groups) should focus on the potential the associated developments shouldn’t be at the expense of the fish of developing recreational fishing

10 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE – OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Recreational fishing is a healthy activity that allows for splendid nature experiences, social interaction, and a heightened sense of environmental responsibility. Especially kids, young people and socially marginalized individuals benefit from this, and - as a result – Fishing Zealand works with: • Activities aimed at recruiting new fishermen • Fishing as a starting point for learning • Events and educational courses for newcomers to the sport • Fishing events for socially marginalized individuals • The Trout Patrol educational course • Collaboration with DSF, fishing clubs, tackle stores, institutions, and P&T lakes

• Friluftsrådet (The Danish Outdoor Council), the Nordea Fonden and other foundations should support the development of recreational fishing and fishing destinations • Improved access for fishermen in Danish harbors • Establishment of one or more collaborative organisations similar to Fishing Zealand and Seatrout Fyn The report recommends Fishing Zealand as an example that other regions should follow, and it underlines that our way of incorporating environmental and fish conservation management with efforts aimed at tourists, children and young people is the way forward. Among other things, the report states that: ”Fishing tourists focus on the environmental profile at the destinations they visit, and they care about sustainability. For instance, river management and the breeding and stocking efforts by Dansk Center for Vildlaks (The Danish Center for Wild Salmon), Fishing Zealand and Seatrout Fyn are important in making a destination attractive to fishing tourists. Therefore, this work – and the dissemination of these efforts – should be integrated in the further development of fishing tourism”. We’re very proud of that. The work that Fishing Zealand has already done has made a difference for the Zealand fish populations, the aquatic environment, the local businesses and the fishermen – and the recognition of this is great! Furthermore, it’s good to know that further support and backing is on the way so that Fishing Zealand will be able to add even more resources and make an even bigger impact. Hopefully, the report will help catalyse similar initiatives and measures on a national scale. The full report can be found here www.fishingzealand.dk and here www.naturerhverv.dk

Fishing Zealand’s Strengths The individual municipalities are capable of a lot, but in unison we can really put environmental enhancement and sustainability on the agenda. We can conduct investigations like our joint sea trout surveys; we can learn from each other, and we can collaborate across municipal boundaries and focus areas. Our mutual binding core values represent a valuable tool in this regard. Our cooperation also benefits the regional cooperation between fishermen and volunteers. Finally, DSF – as a backing organization – makes a huge difference! Fishing Zealand isn’t the solution to all problems and challenges. Fishing Zealand alone cannot solve all the problems that exist within our field of interest. But Fishing Zealand can hopefully be a vital catalyst, and we’re proud to be a part of the development and implementation of sustainable fishing principles on Zealand.

ORGANIZATION Fishing Zealand is currently organised with a steering committee and a project group. The steering committee and project group are comprised of members that represent the different partners. For the full overview of Fishing Zealand members go to www.fishingzealand.dk

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Catch & Release Tips

HANDLE THE

fish with care There’s lots of great equipment and advice to keep in mind when it comes to catch and release fishing. Here’s some expert advice on how to safely and carefully handle a fish before releasing it.

12 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Fishing provides a good starting point when it comes to understanding and respecting nature. And with respect for nature comes a series of implicit rules for how we treat the fish we catch. Fish are living creatures that demand respectful treatment – regardless of whether they’re killed or released. Already when fighting the fish, you should ask yourself the question: Do I want to keep this fish? If you do, you should kill the fish right after landing it. If the fish is to be released – voluntarily or because of restrictions – there’s a series of considerations to remember. Catch & Release fishing becomes more and more widespread, and in the Southern Zealand brackish waters, Catch & Release regulations now apply. When it comes to protecting the unique brackish water pike populations, this makes perfect sense, but it also puts demands on the fisherman. It isn’t a goal in itself just to release the fish – it also has to survive without suffering temporary or permanent injuries. Luckily, fish

such as pike and perch are quite robust, but their survival chances depend on how they’re handled – not only while being unhooked and released, but also when they’re being fought and landed.

Careful and Effective Handling Just like when an ambulance is dispatched, the response time is crucial when a fish is to be released. Basically, it is all about releasing the fish as quickly as possible. Unnecessarily long interludes on land or in boats will stress the fish and minimize its chances of survival. The same applies for unnecessarily long fights. Generally, it all comes down to minimizing the handling time; making sure the fish isn’t out of the water too long and that you don’t wear away the fish’s slime layer. The scales and slime layer are the fish’s safeguard against infections, and if these are damaged, the fish will risk dying.

From Hook-Up to Unhooking The fight, of course, is one of the integral

pleasures of being a fisherman, but long fights will effectively drain the fish of energy, and it will begin to produce acids. A fish that has been fought without becoming exhausted will stand a much better chance of surviving after being released than a fish that has been fought improperly. The point is to use tackle that is powerful enough to handle the fish you’re targeting and not to drag out the fight. Oftentimes, the landing is a nervewracking affair with lots at stake. When it comes to the fish’s well being, however, lots is at stake too. Depending on the size of the fish – and the general situation, you can choose to either net or land the fish by hand. Landing the fish by hand is a great idea when wading. It allows you to quickly land and unhook the fish – without having to take the fish out of the water. This is possible when fishing from a boat too – if we’re talking about smaller fish that are superficially hooked. When dealing with bigger fish, however, a roomy, knotless landing net is highly recommended. A landing

“Catch & Release fishing is becoming more and more widespread, and in the Southern Zealand brackish waters, Catch & Release regulations now apply.” A lovely pike is kept in a so-called fish cradle while preparing for a quick trophy picture.

The right tools are a prerequisite to a fast release. Here, long-shafted forceps and some wire cutters in case a hook needs to be cut.

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Quick C&R Tips

1. Use tackle that is powerful enough to handle the fish you’re targeting. 2. Always bring a long, knotless landing net. 3. Remember your pliers and forceps. 4. Avoid placing the fish on surfaces that will potentially destroy its protective slime layer. 5. Avoid touching the fish too much. 6. Keep the fish as much in the water as possible – especially during warm, sunny days. 7. If you cannot unhook the fish in the water, place it on a wet surface – or even better, a wet unhooking mat. 8. Make sure you don’t squeeze the fish’ internal organs or damage its gills while handling it. 9. Be sure that the fish has regained its strength before letting it go. 10. Use circle hooks when bait fishing – or strike quickly before the fish inhales the bait.

A nice pike is quickly measured on a moist unhooking mat so the fish’ protective slime layer isn’t damaged.

net is a good place to keep the fish until you’ve gotten your pliers and forceps. If possible, the fish should be unhooked in the water. If this isn’t possible, it should be done on a soft and wet surface. Hooks are best removed with forceps, and here it is important to be careful and gentle, so you don’t cause big wounds or open cuts. It is most effectively done by pulling consistently against the hook point angle and applying some downward pressure to release the hook barb. Especially when it comes to pike, it is a good idea to have pliers of up to 30 cm in length. Pike are ferocious fish that will often inhale the whole lure, and with long pliers you can reach all the way down into its throat without risking damage to the gills. (Or risking getting injured yourself). The release is pretty self-explanatory, if the fish has been fought quickly and the unhooking has been unproblematic. Then all you have to do is put the fish back into the water. If the fish is tired or stressed, it is a good idea to hold the fish in the water

14 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

and slowly revive it by cradling it back and forth. This will cause water to gush through the fish’ gills and help the fish re-oxygenate. And sooner or later it will regain its strength. When doing this, don’t let the fish go until it starts struggling to regain its freedom – only then is it ready to swim away on its own.

Documented Efficiency If you want to document your catch, to measure, weigh and photograph it, it is important to keep your gear organized. If you’re fishing from a boat, always make sure that everything is tidy – and use a socalled fish cradle. It prevents the fish from thrashing about in the boat and potentially injuring itself. If you have your measuring tape, your weighing sling, scales and camera at hand, you can quickly document the catch and release it. Then the fish will stand a great chance of surviving and contributing further to the water environment, the fish stocks and more great fishing. <<

The Tools

There are lots of practical tools that make it easier to land, handle and release the fish. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Forceps – for unhooking the fish. • Pliers – for those rare instances when a hook needs to be clipped. • An unhooking glove – which (when wet) protects the fish’ slime layer while being handled and released. • A knotless landing net – preferably made out of fish-friendly rubber mesh. • An unhooking mat – to protect the fish’ slime layer. • A fish cradle – for storing the fish until the fish has been documented. • A weighing sling – don’t ever weigh the fish in the gills.

s m l i fof

SEE WHAT FISHING ZEALAND IS ABOUT In order to shed light on Fishing Zealand’s ambitious plans to strengthen and develop fishing tourism in Zealand, we have produced a series of informational films in cooperation with film producer Niels Vestergaard. Their intention is to inform concisely about Fishing Zealand’s most important goals, projects and initiatives – and to bring into focus, how we as fishermen should conduct ourselves. Film as a media has been given priority because it is capable of

capturing and crystallizing what actually happens out there: all the nature experiences, the ambience, the sense of community and the passion. Pictures say more than a thousand words, but living pictures also help to make important words come to life. And it is our hope that these films will bring to life all the messages and themes that are so central to Fishing Zealand’s project work: The local commitment, the wide and cross-disciplinary cooperation, the social responsibility,

Fishing Zealand https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=18&v=-yu9eNo2OAE

This film is about the Fishing Zealand project and its partners. It details the work done to develop Zealand fishing tourism while at the same time ensuring sustainability, water quality, and healthy fish stocks.

the volunteer work and the overall attention to the environment. The films have been made in several languages so that fishing tourists from abroad will be able to understand – for instance – the laws and regulations that apply in Zealand. It’s also important that they grasp and appreciate Fishing Zealand’s efforts to make their fishing experience something special and unique.

Fishing Rules and Etiquette in Denmark https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_S62q-pQUU

In this film, we look closely at how we as fishermen should behave when we’re out fishing. It presents a series of guidelines, regulations, and laws – and it debates how we go about our business without disturbing nature or people around us.

The Trout Patrol

Volunteers and Watersheds

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vgbs8jQ30g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0723GeJpj4o

The Trout Patrol is an exciting Fishing Zealand-supported initiative, where young people are taught trout biology, fish conservation and river management. Watching this film, you’ll learn to appreciate the meaning and importance of the Trout Patrol.

When it comes to river restoration, electrofishing, brood stocking and general fish conservation management, the volunteers are an invaluable resource. This film pays homage to the many volunteers who do an immense job when it comes to improving the Zealand water environment and fish stocks. Maybe they’ll inspire you to take part in this work?

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

A 10-kilo brackish pike leaves a memory of a lifetime, and it is synonymous with thousands of crowns for the southern Zealand local economy.

16 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

V I S I O N S

FOR THE SOUTHERN ZEALAND

brackish waters The Southern Zealand brackish waters represent a goldmine for the local society. They harbour big and feisty brackish pike – a fish that has an almost magnetic attraction on fishermen from near and far. The question is, how should this fishing be managed so that it will remain attractive and worth traveling for in the future?

Brackish pike are predatory fish on steroids: lightning quick, powerful, and merciless fish... ...at the top of the food chain. For the fisherman, the brackish pike are, perhaps, the ultimate goal, and for some, brackish water pike fishing turns into a lifelong obsession. There is something unique and addictive about fishing for pike in brackish waters. And if the brackish bug ever catches you, you’re destined to head for Southern Zealand. This is where some of Denmark’s – and probably Europe’s – best brackish pike fishing is found. Brackish pike fishing is unique because it takes place in and around some extremely beautiful and characteristic coastal areas that number bays, fjords, and lagoons. The fishing is usually done in clear shallow water, something that makes it very visual and intense. On average, the fish are quite big, and - in addition – they are in impeccable shape. They are hard fighting fish that will put maximum pressure on your gear, and when the conditions are just right, you can catch some real monsters.

Worth Travelling for The Southern Zealand brackish water fishing not only attracts Danish pike and perch fishermen. It is so unique that it draws considerable numbers of foreign fishing tourists to the region – from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, and Holland. This is good news for the local society, since every visiting fisherman represents a boost to the local economy. They book overnight stays and buy gasoline and food. They visit restaurants, bakeries and local tackle stores. They rent boats, pay ramp fees and buy fishing licenses. And they hire assistance in the form of local fishing guides.

The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries has estimated that recreational fishing generates revenue in the vicinity of 3 billion crowns a year. There’s still plenty of room for improvement, however – and not least when it comes to the Southern Zealand brackish waters. These waters represent a valuable resource that holds the potential of generating new jobs and increased tourism revenues – as long as the fishing is managed in a sustainable way. Increased fishing tourism not only means increased fishing pressure. It also puts pressure on the pike, which are already constrained by net fishing and the loss of habitat and spawning areas. So how does one prevent the fishing from collapsing under its own weight? And how does one manage the brackish waters so the pike populations can reach their full potential? It might seem paradoxical, but further developing local fishing tourism is a key to protecting the vulnerable brackish pike populations and habitats. This is something that Fishing Zealand has stressed and worked for since it was established in 2012 – with Denmark’s Sport Fishing Federation (DSF) as an essential initiator and partner. –

A BIG Unresolved Potential

In 2012 DSF’s report: ‘The State and Developmental Potential of Brackish Pike and Perch in the Southern Zealand Region’ was released. The report, which remains a valuable strategic tool today, clearly stresses that the Southern Zealand pike population comprises only a fraction of its actual potential, and that there is plenty of room for more fish and fishermen. Furthermore it is stated that: - ‘The FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

photo: Frederik Lorentzen

brackish waters in Southern Zealand are capable of attracting fishermen en masse as long as the area’s potential for big and wild fish stocks is realised’. For Fishing Zealand and DSF, recreational fishing tourism and fish conservation are invariably intertwined. It requires money, resources and political goodwill to realize the full potential of the brackish waters, however, and the promise of increased tourism revenues will help in this regard. Historically, the Southern Zealand brackish waters have been the home of world class pike and perch fishing – with many and impressively big fish! Unfortunately the fish stocks have suffered immensely due to habitat destruction and overfishing with commercial nets, and since the early 70s the pike populations have been drastically reduced. And even though the pike fishing is considered as good today, it doesn’t even begin to compare with how it used to be. In other words, there is still a long way to go before we achieve the full pike potential. To get there, a comprehensive list of initiatives needs to be implemented, and Fishing Zealand is working to make this happen.

Visions and Continuous Work Fishing Zealand has spent considerable resources gathering and compiling information about the problems, possibilities and available measures for managing the Southern Zealand brackish waters. A conference on the subject was held in Vejle in cooperation with DSF, where the Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries at that time, Dan Jørgensen, participated. Articles have been written in ‘Miljø and Vandpleje’, Sportsfiskeren, Børsen and local newspapers in order to create attention and debate and encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration. Among other things, Fishing Zealand has succeeded in involving local tourism agencies, local companies, fishing clubs, biologists, volunteers, and even National Geographic Channel. Fishing Zealand has also engaged in political lobbyism, launching an ambitious plan for the implementation of sustainable management principles. This is a plan supported by biologist in Vordingborg Kommune, Jimmi Spur Olsen. - Brackish perch and pike need special attention in order to thrive, he says. – The explanations as to what is limiting the pike populations

”Brackish perch and pike need special attention in order to thrive... if we are to restore the populations it requires some well thought out management”

WHAT’S A PIKE WORTH? Seatrout have always been in focus, and several years ago it was documented that a seatrout weighing 1 kilo caught by a fisherman represented a societal value of 2500 crowns. Recently, DTU Aqua has conducted a similar study on pike that estimated the pike’s value at around 1200 crowns per kilo. And since pike on average are bigger than seatrout, it makes sense to pay a lot more attention to them. Pike represent an obvious economic resource – no matter where they live. But especially in the brackish areas in Southern Zealand they are worth their weight in gold. Compared to freshwater pike they have something unique to offer. They can be fished in shallow water – in enchantingly beautiful surroundings, they are incredibly powerful, they are capable of enduring great fishing pressure, they can grow to remarkable sizes, and their habitats are extremely sustainable. These characteristics make them capable of luring fishing tourists galore, and their visits will invariably strengthen the local economies.

18 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

”During the best years – some 40 to 50 years ago – reported catches totalled around 140 tons of brackish pike per year” Source: DTU Aqua / Fisk&Hav 2009 Nr. 62

so drastically are many and complex. And if we are to restore the populations, it requires some well thought out management of the fish stocks, effective fishing regulations and restrictions, and the restoration of passageways. Furthermore, access to freshwater spawning areas is a crucial element, he says. - The fishery statistics are clear concerning the potential of the brackish waters in Southern Zealand and Lolland-Falster, according to Jimmi Olsen, and he continues: - During the best years – some 40 to 50 years ago – reported catches totalled around 140 tons Former Minister of Food, Agriculture Fisheries, Dan Jørgensen, made an historic decision to introduce restrictions on brackish water pike.

of brackish pike per year. Today the catches are minimal in comparison. There are colossal brackish areas in Southern Zealand – up to 100 km2 of water with less than four meters of depth, thus providing pike with a perfect habitat. If the fish stocks can get back to former heights, recreational fishing will be able to boom. We need to develop this fishery and with it the economic gains at a tempo that is beneficial to the brackish pike and perch populations, he concludes.

The Latest Development Fortunately a lot has already happened in the

Brackish water pike fishing is done in shallow water, over reefs, underwater banks, bladder wracks, and eelgrass. Accordingly, lures such as jerkbaits, swimbaits, soft lures, spinners and flies that can be fished right below the surface usually provide the best results. For obvious reasons, brackish pike forage on different prey than their freshwater cousins, and therefore it makes sense to abandon traditional pike tactics.

Tips for the Brackish Pike

Since the brackish waters are usually quite clear, the local experts tend to use exact imitations of, for instance, gobius, eel, herring and codling. And the lures tend to be rather small – between 10 and 15 cm in brown, olive-green and sandy colors. The brackish pike can be somewhat moody, however, and experimenting with different lure types, sizes and colours is often the key to success.

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

last couple of years. Collaboration between municipalities and landowners aiming at creating more spawning areas has been established. Essential data has been produced, and informational campaigns have been initiated. Attention has been drawn to the economic value of recreational brackish pike fishing, and on March 13th a long political process culminated in the announcement of new plans and regulations for the Southern Zealand brackish waters. According to the new regulations put forth by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Præstø Fjord, Stege Nor, Jungshoved Nor and Fane Fjord are now restricted by catch and release regulations

– in addition to the general conservation/no-fishing period from April 1st – May 15th. This means that only catch and release fishing is allowed in the Southern Zealand brackish waters, and that pike fishing is forbidden from April 1st to May 15th. In addition, a commercial netting prohibition has been introduced from February 1st until May 31st. It is intended to save pike from becoming commercial bycatches. The areas around Præstø Fjord, Stege Nor, Jungshoved Nor and Fane Fjord have been chosen because they are important habitat areas for the pike, and these areas are now set for a big comeback! <<

”Essential data has been produced and informational campaigns have been initiated. Attention has been drawn to the economic value of recreational brackish pike fishing”

The Brackish Water Cup

The Brackish Water Cup has developed into a massive international attraction. The Cup, which is arranged by Møn Trolling in cooperation with Fishing Zealand, is a largescale fishing competition. Pike and perch are the target species, and there are tons of attractive prizes for the longest fish caught in each category. The Brackish Water Cup is a catch & release competition where all fish are released after measurements and pictures are taken. Participation costs 250 crowns, and since there are limited spots available, registration is based on a first-come, first-served basis. This year’s Brackish Water Cup will take place the first weekend of October. Registration: Brakvandscup@gmail.com Additional information: https://www.facebook.com/BrakvandsCup www.moentrolling.dk

Pike Factories fotos: Olof Engstedt

Swedish experiences from so-called ‘pike factories’, which are flooded meadows where the pike fry are provided with optimal growth and survival conditions, clearly demonstrate that there is a massive rehabilitation potential in the Southern Zealand brackish waters. When the conditions are right, the production of migrating pike fry from these factories can be enormous – up to 85,000 pcs/ha (100 x 100m) of flooded meadow. The restoration of drained farmland and meadows in Southern Zealand has provided an obvious helping hand for the brackish pike. And this is a very cost-effective solution that simply consists of removing a few barrages and re-establishing passages to flooded meadows via – for instance – dams. Fishing Zealand’s Gordon P. Henriksen and biologist in Vordingborg Kommune, Jimmi

20 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Spur Olsen, travelled to the Swedish archipelago in May 2015 to participate in a seminar on fisheries management in the Baltic Sea. Pike factories are central pillars in this regard, and they have facilitated massive progress for the pike populations. Jimmi Spur Olsen sees great potential in the pike factory model when it comes to the Southern Zealand brackish waters, and after the seminar he has mapped the region’s spawning and habitat areas – a mapping that shows 177 sites with unresolved potential for reproduction. The mapping now constitutes the foundation for Fishing Zealand’s, Guldborgsund Kommune’s and Vordingborg Kommune’s further work in fish conservation and habitat management.

LODGING Feriepartner Møn - www.feriepartner.dk/moen

Feriepartner Møn offers more than 200 houses for rent close to forests and coastal shores. They also offer special fishermanfriendly summerhouses and mini-vacation travel packages. • Storegade 2, 4780 Stege, Tlf: (+45) 5586 0400

BRACKISH WATER GUIDES If you’re considering a trip to Southern Zealand to fish for brackish pike and need some assistance, local fishing guides are ready to help.

Møn Bed and Breakfast - www.bb-moen.dk

Møn Bed and Breakfast lists over 300 rooms across Møn. They are evenly distributed across Møn in peaceful and quiet surroundings in close proximity to Møns Klint’s unique nature. The rooms are cosy and personal, and special services for fishermen are available – for instance packed lunches for fishing trips.

Møns Klint Resort - www.moensklintresort.dk

Møns Klint Resort offers several unique summerhouses, each with their own individual charm and location. The resort also has its own campsite, and the whole resort area is a haven for kids and grown-ups alike – a place for great nature experiences, relaxation and inspiration. • Klintevej 544, 4791 Borre Møn, tlf: (+45) 5581 2025

Sleep and Coffee - www.sweetcoffee.dk

Sleep and Coffee is centrally located less than 150 m from the old city square and Præstø Fjord. They offer light and spacious B&B room with free Wi-Fi and fishing access to the river behind the property. Præstø Harbor is less than 3 minutes away on foot and from the yard there is access directly to Præstø Fjord via Tubæk River. • Adelgade 48, 4720 Præstø, tlf: (+45) 5594 5010

NIKOLAJ MARTINS is a DSF and Fishing Zealand certified fishing guide. He prides himself on giving his clients a good experience by informing and inspiring. Nikolaj has specialized in brackish water guiding, and he focuses a lot on wade fishing, since he himself finds this type of fishing very exciting. He knows the Southern Zealand area extremely well, and with him as your guide, you stand a great chance of catching a real beast. Nikolaj can be contacted via email: pikeguide@hotmail.com or by phone: (+45) 20 65 87 56

”This means that only catch and release fishing is allowed in the Southern Zealand brackish waters”

BOAT RENTAL Møn Bådene - www.moenbaadene.dk

Møn Bådene is a centrally located boat rental service in Stege. Møn Bådene has 8 boats ranging from 13 to 18 feet. They are equipped with outboard motors from 3,3 to 30HP, and they can be rented for fishing in Stege Bugt and Stege Nor. • Stege Havn, Fiskerstræde, 4780 Stege, (Berth 171 – 175), Phone: (+45) 2143 8486

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

The Sunny Side of Lejre:

Ecology, Nature Experiences Together we can do so much more. That was the theme when local net fishermen, local politicians, Fishing Zealand representatives, biologists and other interested parties met at Gershøj Harbor.

The Sunny Side of Lejre: Here’s what you need: – Garfish filets (1 per person) – Rye bread – Butter – Chopped onions – preferably red onions

– Chopped chives – Chopped radishes – Raw egg yolk (organic or pasteurized) – Salt

Wash the garfish filets thoroughly and sprinkle them with salt on both sides. Put them on a tray, and cover them with film. Let them sit in a cold place over night and let them dry afterwards for a couple of hours in the fresh air. The garfish can obviously be smoked in a regular smoker oven, but you can also use a covered grill. Start the grill with charcoal, and put a handful of wet wood chips on top of all the coals. Mount the grate and place the dried garfish filets on it just don’t place them directly on top of the coals and wood chips. This will overheat them. Finish off by putting the lid on the grill to seal in the wonderful smoke. The air intake in the bottom of the grill should be fully open. The top air intake, on the other hand, should only be slightly open - so you just see a hint of smoke coming out. Generally, it’s important to keep a close eye on the grill. At one point all humidity will have evaporated, and the wood chips will catch fire. If the garfish is done, it will be golden brown and the skin will be wrinkly. If the fish isn’t quite done yet, the wood chips will need a few sprays of water. Smoke the garfish for 20-30 minutes, and lift the lid occasionally to check on the fish. It’s a shame if it gets too dry. Once they’re done, take the beautiful, golden garfish filets out of the grill, and cool them down a little bit. Carefully peel off the skin, and take the meat off the bones. Place a garfish filet on a piece of buttered rye bread, and garnish it with onions, chives, and radishes. Finish off by pouring an organic egg yolk on top. Bon appetite!

22 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

and Fishing On May 23rd Gershøj Harbor on Roskilde Fjord was full of life and excitement. Here, Fishing Zealand and Gershøj Fritidsfiskerforening held the locally inspired event ‘The Sunny Side of Lejre’ . It was a successful day with lots of exciting activities, high spirits and social interaction – as well as great culinary, nature and fishing experiences. More than 400 happy and enthusiastic people from near and far showed up at Gershøj Harbor where the smell of freshly caught fish, organic food and herbs hung in the air. At the harbor there were various booths crammed with almost everything that Lejre has to offer – and that’s quite a lot! Lejre is a bubbling, organic municipality with local drive, a volunteer spirit, a strong sense of community, great raw materials and green visions. And The Sunny Side of Lejre is evidence that the municipality and citizens have committed themselves to maintaining a sustainable profile when it comes to the water environment and fishing. Visions for Roskilde Fjord For Fishing Zealand, The Sunny Side of Lejre is about several different things: bringing the local, organic produce to

public attention, shedding light on the fishing possibilities in Lejre and generating debate, mutual understanding and cooperation. It was particularly positive that bridges were built between local net fishermen and recreational fishermen during the event. This was one of the reasons Fishing Zealand originally brought up idea of the event. In addition to local net fishermen at Gershøj Harbor, the chairman of Dansk Amatørfiskerforbund, Kaj Poulsen, local chairman at Gershøj Havn, Thomas BierbergChristensen, Mads Christoffersen from DTU Aqua and the two local politicians Claus Jørgensen and Mikael Ralf Larsen from the board of Lejre Municipality were present. It was the perfect occasion to enter in a dialogue about sustainable management of the fjord and its fish stocks – across different interests and considerations. During the event, Kaj Poulsen mentioned that he was happy to see that net fishermen and recreational fishermen were capable of working together on such an event, and that he hoped to see a lot more like that in the future. The Fishing Zealand representatives were pleased to be able to open people’s

eyes to the joys of fishing, and they look forward to an open dialogue about Roskilde Fjord, net fishing, and sustainable management. There doesn’t have to be a conflict between net and recreational fishing interests – as long as there are joint visions for the fjord and its fish populations. Local Support The majority of the visiting guests were local families with children, who were keen on learning more about the area. Several of the visiting children caught their very first fish, the aquatic life in the aquariums was carefully and enthusiastically examined, and in the afternoon garfish were smoked and the dish ‘The Sunny Side of Lejre’ was served with lots of organic produce. The ingredients consisted of chives, red onions, and radishes from Lejre Økologiske Fødevarefællesskab (LØFF) (Lejre’s Organic Produce Union), organic rye bread from Ravnshøjgård, egg yolks from the organic Hegnsholt Hønseri and lovely samples of various beers from the organic Herslev Bryghus. People really got a good taste of what Lejre Kommune has to offer. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

BECOME A BETTER FISHERMAN – HIRE A FISHING GUIDE

”As a novice or beginner it is essential to have a good experience when you’re out fishing. It is important to be successful and thus to develop confidence and trust in ones abilities. ” 24 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

”Having our own Fishing Zealand guides means [...] that Zealand will gain international recognition as a fishing destination”

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE IS PIVOTAL when it comes to fishing. As a result, one of the best ways of ensuring great catches is to fish with a local guide. He’ll make sure that you fish the right spots, at the right time and with the right techniques. Back in 2013 the first team of Fishing Zealand’s certified guides was hatched. They completed a course organized by Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation, Aktiv Danmark and Fishing Zealand – a course that was tailor-made in order to provide them with the pedagogical tools to take on their guiding responsibilities in a competent and responsible way. These guides have been busy for the past couple of years, and they won’t be less busy in the years to come. Quite the contrary! With Fishing Zealand’s continuous work to recruit new fishermen and promote sustainable fishing tourism on Zealand, guides who can instruct, inspire and educate will be in higher demand than ever before.

Novice Or Visitor? As a novice or beginner it is essential to have a good experience when you’re out fishing. It is important to be successful and thus to develop confidence and trust in ones abilities. In this regard, a fishing guide is a fantastic life line that will make sure that you’re not only equipped with the right gear but also with the knowledge to be successful on your own. The Fishing Zealand guides are trained in providing novices, beginners and children with the help they need to kick start their fishing career. Recruitment is important, and as a result, the guides participate in all the Fishing Zealand events providing novices with a chance to get a taste of what fishing is like. They also arrange individual courses aimed at helping newcomers to the sport improve their skills. If you are visiting from abroad, a guide is also worth his weight in gold. Being successful when fishing a new destination that you have little or no prior knowledge about is tricky – no matter how skilled or experienced you might be. Here, the certified guides have a crucial role to play! They possess the local knowledge and expertise needed for the fishing expedition to become a big success.

A Viable Product Is Dependent on Good Guides In order to deliver a competitive product to visiting fishermen from near and far it is necessary to be able to provide experienced guides with local knowledge, pedagogical skills, and a friendly but professional attitude. Having our own Fishing Zealand guides means that

it is now possible to organize successful tailor-made travel packages for visiting fishing tourists, that the number of returning fishing tourists will rise, and that Zealand will gain international recognition as a fishing destination.

Certification – a Necessity The guide certification program is meant to ensure high quality standards when Fishing Zealand provides guides in connection with courses, events and guided fishing. Ronny Lagoni Thomsen, Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation’s Activity and Recruitment Coordinator, explains it like this: ”It has been a known fact for many years that recreational fishing is a viable economic commodity. And with projects like Fishing Zealand it is important to deal respectfully with the challenges of managing Danish fishing waters and Danish fishing culture. The first step is the new guide certification program, which Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation thinks is necessary not only to ensure memorable fishing tourist experiences, but also to ensure good judgment and conduct when it comes to presenting local Danish fishing opportunities in cooperation with local fishermen and fishing clubs”. With the new guide certification program in place – and new Fishing Zealand guides underway – Fishing Zealand is in a good position to develop new initiatives aimed at heightening the standard of the fishing tourism services on Zealand and to ensure recruitment of new generations of fishermen. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

CER TIFIED FISHIN G Here is a list of Fishing Zealand guides certified by Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation. By booking one of these guides, you’re guaranteed a competent, educational and memorable day on the water – with the best possible odds of improving your fishing techniques and catching a fish.

Ken Sørensen Ken Sørensen is an experienced seatrout- and pike fisherman who lives on Møn. Ken represents 44 years of experience with spin and fly gear along the coastal shores of Møn, and he always knows how to crack the code – whether you’re looking for seatrout or pike. Specializes in: Seatrout (Møn/Stevns) – Pike fishing ken@moenfiskeguide.dk

BOOK A GUIDE – HAVE A GREAT EXPERIENCE Fishing Zealand recommends the use of guides – and especially if you plan a longer fishing expedition, the money for a guide on the first fishing day is well worth the investment. Fishing Zealand works together with Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation on educating and certifying fishing guides, so you can be absolutely sure that you’re in good hands when you book one of these guides. In addition to high requirements on fishing expertise, experience, and local knowledge, the certification also guarantees guides with first aid and boat diplomas etc.

DO YOU WANT TO BECOME A FISHING GUIDE If you’re considering becoming a Fishing Zealand guide and you think you’ve got what it takes, we’d like to hear from you: info@fishingzealand.dk. You can read more about Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation and Fishing Zealand’s guide certification courses at www.fishingzealand.dk and http://www.sportsfiskeren.dk/fiskeguide

+45 23 42 37 47 www.moenfiskeguide.dk

Nikolaj Martins Nikolaj has been fishing his whole life. He fishes for any species that can be caught on a fly rod, but during the past few years he has fallen in love with the brackish pike. Nikolaj lives in Southern Zealand, and he is very knowledgeable when it comes to fishing in and around Lolland, Falster, Møn and Stevns. Specializes in: Pike (especially brackish pike) – Coastal fishing for seatrout – Flycasting instruction pikeguide@hotmail.com +45 20 65 87 56 www.pikeguide.com

Niels Lagergaard Pedersen Niels is a biologist and a passionate coastal fisherman. At a young age, Niels started fishing the coastal shores, and he now has more than 25 years of experience fishing for seatrout. Due to his experience, Niels is always capable of finding seatrout spots with great fishing conditions. Niels guides both spin and fly fishermen, and he also holds courses in fly fishing. Specializes in: Coastal fishing for seatrout niels@fishingguidedenmark.dk +45 22 67 78 74 www.fishingguidedenmark.dk

26 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Z E A L AND GUIDES Claus Eklundh Christensen

Jan Svenstrup

During his younger years, it was mainly the brackish water perch fishing on Falster that took up Claus’ fishing time. Gradually, however, he got more and more into coastal seatrout fishing. Apart from chasing seatrout he now specializes in allround fishing for species such as cod, flounders and mackerel. Claus owns the company fiskekurser.dk. Specializes in: Corporate Trips – Courses in seatrout fishing – Beginner courses – Guided family trips – Tailor-made courses and events

Jan Svenstrup is Fishing Zealand’s first certified boat guide. He has more than 27 years of experience with boat fishing, and during his guiding career Jan has guided clients from 17 different countries, set three IGFA lineclass records and hosted the Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. Specializes in: Boatfishing - Trolling - Sea-

post@fiskekurser.dk +45 27 28 95 41 www.fiskekurser.dk

fishing jan@svenstrupsportfishing.dk +45 22 21 99 68 www.svenstrupsportfishing.dk

Lars Juel Hansen

Gordon P. Henriksen

Lars is a full-blooded seatrout fisherman, and he knows all about fishing in the fjords and on the open coasts. His experiences stem from numerous guided coastal trips, weekend courses, and flycasting courses held over the last 11 years. As a person, Lars is positive, flexible, outgoing, and eager to share his vast knowledge. Specializes in: Seatrout on the coasts and in the fjords – Flycasting instruction

Gordon lives in Lejre and fishes all over Zealand. He focuses a lot on pike fishing and fishing that appeals to less experienced fishermen and children. He is self-employed and works with sustainable fishing tourism and the promotion of recreational fishing. Specializes in: Pike fishing – Sea fishing – P&T – Children and young people

lars@edoras.dk +45 30 75 89 07 www.seatrout4you.com

gordon@megalops.dk +45 29 90 87 70 www.megalops.dk

Claus Christiansen

Jonas Kærlin

Claus has fished since the age of 10 when he started visiting the local Southern Zealand rivers and ventured out onto the ocean. At the age of 18 he discovered coastal fishing, and today seatrout fishing is his main passion. He still finds time, however, to fish Storebælt for cod and flounders now and then. Specializes in: Coastal Fishing – Sea fishing

Jonas lives in Søborg and has a background as a primary school teacher. He has fished since the age of 3 and has fished extensively all over Zealand. For the last five years he has concentrated on fly fishing in Put & Take lakes and in Roskilde Fjord. Specializes in: Coastal Fishing – Put & Take – Fly Fishing

claus.c84@hotmail.com +45 22 30 28 26

jonaskaerlin@hotmail.com +45 20 63 18 50

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

See you

at the Mackerel Festival the third weekend of August

T HE MAC KE

FESTI VITIES & FEISTY

Mackere l on

The Mackerel Festival on Sjaellands Odde (Zealand’s Point) has turned into a major tourist attraction. FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW the Mackerel Festival at Sjaellands Odde was a giant success that showcased Odsherred Kommune and the exciting fishing possibilities in the area. Close to 200 participants fought for the title of Danish Champion in Mackerel Fishing 2015, and innumerable guests showed up to see the booths and the fishermen – and to eat, drink and enjoy themselves.

A Proud Mayor The mayor of Odsherred, Thomas Adelskov, opened the Festival on Friday evening in a jam-packed festival tent. - We’re really happy to have this opportunity to show off Odsherred, and we’re proud of the positive media attention that Odden has received because of the festival, Thomas said. Generally, there’s a lot to be proud of when it comes to the Mackerel Festival! It has become a popular and folksy event that focuses on social interaction, fishing and local specialties – and again this year, the event was covered extensively in the media. DR1’s Weather Forecast broadcast an interview with Gordon P. Henriksen from Fishing Zealand about the festival – an interview that aired on national TV. On Sunday TV2 Oest produced a feature with participant- and organiser interviews as well as footage from the prize ceremony. Radio P4 also aired a feature, and in the weeks that followed, the festival was covered in international media – including German fishing magazines.

A Harbor Full of Life The harbor was full of life during this year’s Mackerel Festival. The festival tent was completely packed on several occasions when the local caterers served their mouth-watering dishes. Especially Saturday evening was hectic. The menu consisted of traditional fried bacon with parsley sauce, and it was a smashing hit with the visitors from the nearby summerhouses. The harbor boasted activities such as crab fishing, taste samples of mackerel and wild herbs, and members of the Odsherred Sportsfisker Forening were present to tell about their fish conservation management program – a Fishing Zealand supported initiative that enhances fish stocks in the area.

28 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Economic Catches A big event such as the Mackerel Festival not only creates life on the harbor. It also creates economic life. It attracts people from outside the area – and having had a good and memorable experience, they’re likely to come back for more. When they do, they’ll need food, lodging, tackle, and gas for their boats, and this generates local profit. With the positive media coverage Sjaellands Odde has received, it is building a strong brand as an area full of life, nature and culture. Coastal Denmark is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, it’s important to be one of the first-movers – and an event like the Mackerel Festival creates a powerful and recognizable brand that is capable of sparking increased tourism turnover. And once a good foundation is laid, it is possible to further develop the potential for tourism. We still haven’t seen the full value of the Mackerel Festival, but it’s safe to conclude that the massive attention it’s been attracting is valuable to Sjaellands Odde. And that’s worth celebrating! <<

TUNA AND MINI TUNA AT ODDENHAVN (ODDEN HARBOR) It isn’t exactly a coincidence that the Mackerel Festival is situated at Odden Harbor. Up until the late 50s it was possible to catch Bluefin Tuna here. The mackerel is a close relative to the tuna, and it has been nicknamed mini tuna. Odden Harbor has created a tuna exhibition about the local tuna history with the help of black-and-white pictures and old footage.

R EL FES T IVAL Sj a ellands Odde

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Economy

Fishing is excitement, grand experiences – and big business The fishermen on Zealand run a business with more than 800 employees, according to Arne Kvist Rønnest, the man behind a large scale study on the socio-economic by GORDON P. HENRIKSEN value of recreational fishing.

Have a look around you on a summer’s day on Zealand. Everywhere, people are fishing for garfish, perch, trout, cod, pike and salmon, and big bucks are being spent on fishing licenses, equipment, guides, boats, lodging and food. Some fishermen are gravely serious about their hobby, which is actually more akin to a lifestyle. Others enjoy the hobby on a more leisurely basis, heading out fishing only a couple of times a year. Some are locals, while others come from far away. Some enjoy fishing alone and do so because they enjoy the solitude. Others fish together in groups. The looming question is therefore: Is it possible to say anything general about fishermen as a target audience and about how to develop and refine the fishing possibilities Zealand has to offer? According to Arne Kvist Rønnest – the man behind the most recent socio-economic analyses of Danish recreational fishing – the answer is yes! He believes that we now have the basic knowledge of recreational fishing that will enable fishing clubs, tourism agencies and authorities to better plan and develop fishing in Zealand. We have asked him to describe the most important findings and elaborate on what they mean for the future of Zealand’s recreational fishing. Here are his answers:

1. Recreational fishing is big business – also on Zealand When fishermen buy gear and travel, they play the part of consumers demanding cer-

30 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

tain goods, Arne explains. – The Zealand fishermen represent 40% of the collective consumer spending related to fishing in Denmark, he says, and this creates in the vicinity of 800 jobs within the tackle, hotel and restaurant businesses. – It might not be very visual. This consumer spending occurs in small doses, in many different sectors, and it’s geographically dispersed. But the

addition, recreational fishing contributes to good health and the quality of life.

2. Fishermen share the same motives Recreational fishing has many subdisciplines, Arne explains, - and there are differences between a fisherman, who likes the solitude and ambience of fishing in a forest lake on mid-Zealand, and a trolling fisherman, who chases salmon near Moen. However, across the many fishing disciplines, three important motivational aspects emerge. They are the excitement of catching a fish, the joy of experiencing nature and the relief of stress.

3. Otherwise, all fishermen are different!

Zealand fishermen do run something reminiscent of a big ‘factory’, providing 800 people with daily jobs. And that’s not all: We haven’t even fully grasped the value fishing represents for society. The voluntary environmental work done by fishermen makes it a whole lot cheaper for Denmark to live up to EU’s Water Framework Directive. And in

When you look at the consumer behaviour of fishermen and see how much they fish, any similarity disappears, according to Arne. – We roughly have three big groups: 39% are very active and fish more than 17 times a year. They spend almost 10.000 crowns annually on their hobby. Another group, which is almost as big, comprises 37% of the fishermen, and they only fish a couple of times a year. They fish to relax and rarely travel very far. In between is a group of fishermen who are semi-active - and who are more catch-oriented than the really active fishermen. They are in it to catch and cook. This knowledge is important when it comes to planning the future of Zealand’s fishing. If the goal is only to attract serious fishermen, it makes no sense to simply promote fishing as something ‘relaxing’. Then you have to stress the quality of the fishing and the

Focusing on Recreational Fishing Makes Good Economic Sense According to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries’ report on ‘Recreational Fishing in Denmark’ and estimates from DTU Aqua, the recreational fishing sector infuses the Danish economy with 3 billion crowns per year. The report also ascertains that a pike or seatrout caught by a fisherman represents a value of 1200 crowns per kilo and 2500 crowns per kilo, respectively.

pleasure of the nature experience – for instance that Zealand offers superb fishing for seatrout, perch and pike in waters surrounded by spectacular scenery.

4. Zealand is underestimated as a fishing destination Zealand is the region in Denmark that fewest coastal tourists associate with recreational fishing, Arne Kvist Rønnest explains. – This certainly isn’t a fair reflection of the actual fishing possibilities, but it means that anyone who is interested in developing fishing tourism on Zealand will have to decide how to describe and promote the possibilities. He emphasizes that the biological potential for enhancing the fishing possibilities on Zealand is vast. – The rivers are capable of producing far greater numbers of seatrout if the spawning habitats are improved. A number of lakes struggle with water quality, and there are still problems with illegal netting. Fishing Zealand’s argument that the overall fishing possibilities are quite good, combined with their work on bettering visibility and quality, is a good and fair way of developing fishing in Zealand. - Fishermen are generally optimistic people, and when it comes to developing Zealand as a fishing destination, they certainly have something to be optimistic about! <<

Arne Kvist Rønnest, Managing Director of Esrum Kloster & Møllegård. Was the project manager for the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries’ report on Danish recreational fishing in 2010, project manager for the analysis and value of the Gudenaa River’s salmon fishing, and a contributor in the study of Skjern River ‘s salmon fishing in 2014. He also participates actively in nature and river restoration projects.

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

ZEALAND

IS A SEATROUT EPICENTER

32 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

with Fish from Near And Far The best rivers in ”Fishing Zealand-country” are among the most productive in the world. But the seatrout fishermen along the Zealand coasts don’t just catch local wild stock, but also stocked and migratory seatrout from the rest of Denmark.

By KAARE MANNICHE EBERT, biologist at Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation, KURT JØRGENSEN and PETER W. HENRIKSEN, Limno Consult

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Along Zealand’s more than 2,400 km of coastline ... ...there’s some amazing seatrout fishing. But the many seatrout that swim along the coasts aren’t simply the results of generous nature. Their presence is also a consequence of the hard work fishermen and municipalities have put into restoring and stocking rivers – something that the smolt programs financed by the state fishing licenses contribute toward. But what is the status of the Zealand seatrout populations, how big is the potential, and where do all these seatrout – that provide such spectacular fishing – come from?

Seven Times the Country Average

fellow species, but in the Zealand rivers, the fry stand better chances of surviving. And this ultimately results in better production rates.

Room for More Trout The challenge, when it comes to coastal fishing, is that the most productive rivers are so small that relatively speaking the smolt production is rather minimal. It is estimated that the Zealand rivers produce a total of 50,000 wild smolt, and even though this might sound like a lot, it is comparable to the smolt production of Bornholm, which has less than 5% of the total coastline of Zealand. So even when the Zealand rivers realize their full potential of 150,000 - 200,000 smolt, there will still be a need for supplementing seatrout along the coastal shores. And this is a challenge that serious local fishermen have worked with for years.

In 2014, Fishing Zealand released the report “Status for havørredbestande på Sjælland og Lolland-Falster, del 1” (The Status of the Zealand and Lolland Falster Seatrout Population, Part I), written by Peter W. Henriksen. It describes the state of the Visionary Wild Stock Work wild sea trout populations across the region with its more than In 1995 the umbrella organization Zealand’s Trout Union 800 km of rivers suitable for (Sjællands Ørredsammenslutseatrout. A positive finding is that ning, SØS) was formed by local ”The most productive rivers some of the rivers produce extrefishermen. The goal was to ensumely large amounts of trout fry. re that the rivers were stocked acARE SO SMALL The 12 best rivers, for instance, cording to capacity and habitat. that relatively speaking boast more than 200 wild trout Even more importantly, it was THE SMOLT PRODUTION per 100 m2 of riverbed. That is a goal that all the stocked trout seven times the country’s average were based on wild hatchery fish is rather minimal” and more than double as many – and preferably local Zealand as the 80 seatrout per 100 m2, fish. The rationale behind this which is the target for seatrout rivers in general. So despite a idea is that wild trout that are adapted to certain rivers and high population density, intensive farming, water extraction habitats stand a better chance of survival than trout that come and a long list of environmental challenges, the best Zealand from hatchery populations. rivers are capable of competing with the top rivers in the A large study from the Vadehav rivers of Jutland showed country. that wild trout are 37 times better at surviving out at sea than hatchery trout. Another study from the Western Jutland rivers Warm Rivers Provide Great Growth Conditions showed that the salmon fishing improved dramatically when The Zealand rivers’ great trout production ability is to be the stocked fish were no longer based on Irish and Swedish found in the fact that they’re less groundwater-fed than the salmon – but rather on local, genetically-adapted salmon. In Jutland rivers. In return, they’re quite dependent on rainfall, conclusion, SØS’ intentions were both sensible and ahead and this means that they’re slightly warmer than the Jutland of their time. And it meant that Zealand had already been rivers. As long as the water quality is good, this actually implementing sound stocking principles for more than 10 years enhances the growth rate of the trout, and it explains how when the Government finally decided that only smolt stocking lots of Zealand smolts are capable of reaching 13 cm in based on wild trout should be allowed in Denmark. their first year. When the smolts leave the rivers during spring – after Wild Trout with Wild Behaviour just one year in the river, there’s suddenly plenty of room The allocation of stocked trout is shown on page 35 – both for the newly hatched fry. In other rivers, a lot of the newly in terms of age and region. There’s no doubt that the trout hatched fry would have ended up in the stomachs of their stocking contributes positively to the fishing. Especially in the

34 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

½ MILLION TROUT ARE RELEASED EVERY YEAR 3 1 2 4

6 5

1. Isefjord 2. Roskilde 3. Øresund 4. Køge 5. Smålandshavet 6. Vestsjælland Total

Fry 2.525 500 11.500 9.200 12.000 7.800 43.525

1/2 year 2.525 12.000 2.600 15.999 17.100 36.450 86.674

Yearlings Smolt 0 107.900 700 48.500 0 61.700 0 54.700 6.600 97.500 7.600 70.700 14.900 441.000 Today, volunteer fishermen extract and produce around 60 liters of trout spawn. The fertilized eggs are then transported to Hvilested Hatchery near Kolding River, Vork Hatchery on the Velje River watershed and to Fyns Laksefisk in Odense. They are returned to the Zealand rivers in the form of three week old fry, half year fry, one year fry or smolt. In total more than ½ million fish are released, and smolt stocked on the lower river stretches constitute 450,000 of these fish.

”Fortunately Zealand is the EPICENTER OF THE Baltic Seatrout population and as SUCH IT ATTRACTS LOTS of migrating fish”

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

The salinity in the southern parts of Zealand is close to 8-10 per mille, which is the optimal concentration for trout – a possible explanation of why the wild trout migrate toward the southeast.

narrow and secluded fjords, reports of great catches are abundant. especially in Southern Zealand – is close to 8 -10 permille, which is But compared to what the fishing was like some 20 years ago when the optimal salinity for seatrout. The trout are simply better off in the fish were still stocked directly into the ocean and where the the Western parts of the Baltic Sea! There is plenty of food there majority of the fish came from Jutland hatcheries, the fishing has in the form of pelagic fish such as sprat and herring, and there are changed considerably. It has become more difficult to find the fish, deep pockets where the temperatures never fall below 4 - 6 degrees. something that is probably due to the fact that the genetically pure So the fishing in Zealand waters is based on the region’s own wild trout that are stocked today display inherited characteristics that trout and local stocking, but with a considerable contribution in the affect their behavior. Contrary to form of migrating seatrout from near the pure hatchery fish that tended and far. ”The healthy trout populations to school up where they had been IN MANY OF THE stocked, the wild fish are more Serious Work with Trout well-functioning rivers are there prone to travelling along the coastal As previously mentioned, the best rivers shores in search for optimal habitat in the region are very productive. But THANKS TO THE TIRELESS and feeding conditions. a lot of them still require management efforts of these volunteers” and help. Luckily, this is something Seatrout from Near and Far that is now receiving a lot of attention. What might very well be seen as The Fishing Zealand municipalities a disadvantage when it comes to the Zealand coastal fishing is have promised each other that they will manage and enhance the actually a big advantage. New studies show that wild trout from river quality and fish populations beyond what’s legally expected of Jutland migrate southeast, when they leave the spawning rivers, them. The voluntary efforts of the local fishermen ensure that a lot and – as a result – they contribute to Zealand fishing. Additionally, of the rivers that haven’t been officially pointed out as focus areas older studies have shown that great portions of the Fyn-seatrout still receive attention, and that local initiatives, such as laying out population also migrate east. So the great fishing that can be had spawning gravel and hiding stones, are given priority. The volunin the Storebælt region can be attributed to the Fyn-trout stockings, teers have done this kind of work for many years, and the healthy which roughly equate the numbers stocked in Zealand waters. trout populations in many of the well-functioning rivers are there A possible explanation as to why the wild trout migrate towards thanks to the tireless efforts of these volunteers. the East is that the salinity in the Eastern parts of Denmark – and

36 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

RECORD-SIZED SMOLT PRODUCTION Studies of the amount of smolt that migrate into the ocean from Zealand rivers have shown that the Southern Zealand rivers such as Krobækken and Herredsbækken produce high numbers of smolt compared to their size and hinterland, and they outmatch the best rivers in the rest of Denmark and abroad. From Krobækken, which runs into Præstø Fjord, close to 6,000 smolts migrate into the ocean. No trout are stocked in the small river, so the smolt migration from the short, but beautiful, river is the result of self-sustaining wild stocks. In Tuse River, Elverdams River, and Fladså there are good self-sustaining stocks too.

seatrout are easy to catch in nets. Fishing Zealand’s last report on seatrout – Status for havørredbestandene på Sjælland, del 2 (The The volunteers have counted spawning nests all over Zealand for Zealand Seatrout Population Status, Part II) – renders it probable many years. And based on their observations - and knowledge that – in certain areas – only very few seatrout ever manage to of the capacity of Zealand trout rivers, it is possible to estimate reproduce. Another important finding in the report is that an extrewhether or not the numbers of spawning fish are capable of mely low percentage of the seatrout manage to spawn more than producing the required amount of trout fry. This is an important once. The unnaturally high saltwater mortality rate is probably estimate because it is indicative of the measures needed to enhance caused by netting in narrow and secluded areas near estuaries, but the wild stocks across Zealand. experiences with special regulations in Generally, there are too few spawHolbæk Fjord - where Tuse River has ning fish in the rivers. It is only in the ”Sustainable management of the its outlet, clearly demonstrate that limirivers that drain into the Isefjord, that SEATROUT STOCKS tations in netting can solve the problem. the numbers are satisfactory. The is capable of stimulating reason why Isefjord is doing so well is GROWTH IN THE Fishing Zealand Works with that the surrounding area offers good Sustainability gradients with lots of subsoil rocks, Zealand coastal municipalities” With the establishment of Fishing persistent and consequent voluntary Zealand in 2014, the value of the efforts, municipality involvement and massive supportive trout Zealand sea trout fishing has gained focus – and with good cause. It stocking. In all the other parts of Zealand, poor passage conditions, constitutes an important recreational resource, and sustainable malack of spawning gravel and sand leaching have complicated selfnagement of the seatrout stocks is capable of stimulating growth reproduction. in the Zealand coastal municipalities. With more than 2,400 km of coastal shores there’s room for everyone, but the prerequisite to Many Fish Die Before Spawning success – more seatrout in the ocean – requires strategic measures. Unfortunately, the seatrout stocks face many dangers and chalFortunately, Zealand is the epicenter of the Baltic Sea trout populalenges in the oceans surrounding Zealand. To a large extent, the tion and as such it attracts lots of migrating fish. Fishing Zealand’s populations are dependent on free passage between the freshwater aim is to enhance the trout stocks in cooperation with other interest spawning grounds and the maritime feeding areas. If passage is groups and to sustainably exploit the valuable resource that the compromised, the seatrout will deplete, and the fishing will suffer seatrout stocks constitute.<< immensely. Especially in narrow waters and fjords, migrating

Too Few Spawning Fish

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

T HE DA NISH SURF C AST I NG C H AMP I O NS H I P

Wa s a Gre at S u c c e s s The Danish Surf Casting Championships emphasized the importance of a productive cooperation across different business areas – and it was a massive success!

by NIELS LAGERGAARD PEDERSEN

THE DANISH SURF CASTING CHAMPIONSHIP was a joint venture organized by Dansk Surfcastingklub, Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation, Fishing Zealand and Gribskov Kommune with the help of passionate local volunteers. Early on in the process, Fishing Zealand addressed Dansk Surfcastingklub to enquire about a possible cooperation, and it didn’t take more than a single meeting to formalize the cooperation and set things in motion. Subsequently, the municipality was contacted – and they happily accepted the invitation to join forces. Denmark’s Sportfishing Federation was also eager to support the initiative, and – in additional to organizational help - they sponsored a welcomegift to all the participants. In addition, PENN and Geoff Anderson came on board as sponsors – with lots of great prizes.

photos: Kristian Ørsted Petersen

A Visionary Event The organizers had two important goals when putting the event together: To spread the word about surfcasting in general and to promote coastal fishing in Gribskov Kommune. The northern Zealand coastal shores are already known for their excellent seatrout fishing, but the event clearly showed that there’s potential for another, partially unexplored type of fishing involving numerous fish species – a type of fishing that is perfect for visiting families and tourists. The event underscored the fact that Gribskob Kommune’s coastal waters are full of fish, and that they can easily be promoted within the surfcasting circuit, which is big, for instance in Germany, Holland and England. Furthermore, the fishing is very suitable for

38 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

both local and visiting families with children – a segment for whom a comfortable and cosy atmosphere goes hand in hand with the catches.

Massive Attraction The event attracted people from near and far, including a lot of families with young children who came to see if any fish were caught – something that helped incite new fishing careers. The event also proved that cooperation is the way forward, and that successful events, such as the Danish Surf Casting Championship, can easily be organized when people work together. The fishing, which took place on the beaches of Tisvildeleje, was incredible – and a total of 193 fish were caught. The record-high numbers of fish caught even surprised the members of the Danish surfcasting club, who subsequently noted that the event would go into the history books as the best ever. <<

Social Responsibility

Youth Events Experience Big Growth Spurts It’s not only important for fishing tourism to recruit new fishermen. It is also a social responsibility. Fishing is a healthy, social, and enriching activity that provides memorable experiences and enhances life quality. by CLAUS EKLUNDH CHRISTENSEN

FREE FISHING

FOR THE KIDS

DURING THE 2014 Easter holidays Fishing Zealand and Hove Put & Take invited kids out for some free fishing. The next year Fishing Zealand teamed up with Kaldredgårdens Put & Take, Roskilde Fiskeland and Iglekær Put & Take and invited the kids out for three full days of free Easter fishing where Fishing Zealand provided everything from fishing water access to fishing gear, guides and expertise. In order to recruit new fishermen it is important to provide kids and young people with the opportunity to become acquainted with fishing and nature experiences. As a result, it was a pleasure organizing these

free fishing events. More than 90 high-spirited kids showed up, eager to experience and learn - and they all had a great and memorable time. Fishing Zealand works proactively in order to create new fishing careers and to heighten the environmental consciousness among young people. We offer children and socially marginalized young people social and life-affirming fishing experiences. The goal is to organize guided events for new fishermen and to take children out into nature and provide them with unique learning experiences through fishing.. <<

Together with local partners, Fishing Zealand organises free fishing trips for kids during the Easter and autumn holidays. Keep an eye out on our website and Facebook page for future events.

Social Responsibility Fishing is a great starting point for memorable experiences in nature, social encounters and a heightened sense of environmental responsibility. Therefore, Fishing Zealand works intensively with: • Activities aimed at starting new fishing careers • Fishing as a basis for learning • Events and guiding for young people • Fishing events for the socially marginalized • We work together with DSF, local fishing clubs, tackle stores, institutions, P&T lakes and more If you need help organizing a good fishing experience for children, feel free to contact us at: info@fishingzealand.dk

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

FISH C O NS ER V A T I O N A N D RI V E R M A N A G E M E N T :

The Volunteers

Make a Difference af RUNE HYLBY, Volunteer Coordinator, Fishing Zealand

Volunteers do the predominant part of the Zealand river and stock restoration work. Without their determination and effort the future of the trout would look a lot less optimistic!

40 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Laying out spawning gravel is an essential part of the fish conservation management on Zealand, and the volunteers do an exemplary job.

For years, fishermen have organized themselves in clubs that perform volunteer work... ...in order to protect and develop river and coastal fishing. Good fishing simply doesn’t come out of nowhere! Especially when it comes to trout. Healthy and self-reproducing stocks require hard and determined work. In this regard, the coordinating effort in the clubs – along with the many volunteers – is irreplaceable. Without it, Zealand coastal fishing would be nothing but a shadow of itself. Before the fishing license was introduced it was mainly the local clubs that paid for and tended to the local fish conservation management – with varying success. With the introduction of the fishing license, fish conservation management has become much more goal-oriented and economically sound. Generally, efforts are far more effective now, because the clubs don’t have to dig deep into their own finances. Instead, they can concentrate on measures to improve the environment and to replenish stock where necessary.

The Rivers Receive Well-Deserved Attention Fish conservation management and volunteer work is centered in and around the rivers, since this is where the trout begin their lives. The clubs have long since realized that the small creeks and rivers, where the trout lay their eggs and spend their juvenile years, require special attention. A healthy water environment is a prerequisite for good coastal fishing. Therefore, the clubs and volunteers have concentrated their efforts on improving the spawning and living conditions in small ‘trout nurseries’.

Trout require a healthy water environment. In this regard, three factors are important: Water levels need to be sustainable, the water needs to be clean, and the river needs to provide good shelter. When these three premises are met, trout can live and thrive. (As a result, trout have been used for years as indicator-fish in water quality assessment). The volunteer work has primarily been aimed at improving the trout habitats, since the purity of the water and the water flows are usually not within the reach of the volunteers. Instead, focus has been on river restoration, spawning grounds, hiding places, and general habitat improvement.

Still Lots to Be Done Throughout the last centuries, rivers have been dug and straightened out to effectively drain farmland. The consequence, unfortunately, is that the trout’s living conditions have dramatically deteriorated in many rivers. With the new River Directives from 1982, river management changed in character and was now subject to the interests of the local environment. The value of a healthy water environment was suddenly put on the agenda, and the clubs started restoring rivers in cooperation with landowners and municipalities. The cooperation between clubs, landowners and municipalities is of vital importance when it comes to water and habitat quality. Fortunately, the clubs are generally good at nurturing this cooperation by engaging in a constructive dialogue. They also set a great example FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

by literally showing up in their working clothes and rubber boots – ready to take action!

Commitment and Volunteer Work Commitment is crucial when it comes to the quality of the cooperation between clubs, municipalities and landowners. But commitment isn’t a solution in itself. Landowners and municipalities need to be willing to look at the perspectives in improving the quality of the rivers. They need to realize that it is possible to improve water quality without farmland being lost or degraded. In this regard, Fishing Zealand has a big communication and lobbyism responsibility that is handled on different levels.

The Zealand fish stocking is based on

genetically pure trout strains that are perfectly adapted to the local conditions.

THE FOCUS AREAS In Fishing Zealand there are several examples of fishermen, municipalities and landowners working together in order to improve the water environment, fish stocks and the flora and fauna along the Zealand rivers. • In Odsherred kommune Odsherred Sportsfiskerforening has completed several river restoration projects together with landowners and municipality representatives. This – for instance, is the case in Anneberg Sørende, where spawning gravel and hiding rocks have been planted in the river. • Roskilde og Omegns Lystfiskerklub (ROLK) has cooperated with Roskilde Forsyning and Roskilde Kommune on a restoration project in Trekroner Bæk, where 70 tons of spawning gravel was laid out. The finished project was dedicated by Roskilde mayor Joy Mogensen (S) and covered extensively in the media. Roskilde Lystfiskerforening has also restored parts of Gedebækrenden. • In Lejre Kommune there was an obstruction at Tade Mølle in Taderød Bæk. Tuse Å’s Ørredsammenslutning and Fishing Zealand’s representative in Lejre initiated a dialogue with Lejre Kommune and the landowner – in this case Roskilde Museum – in order to find a solution to the problems the river’s trout were facing – especially during winter runoff. The problem was that the trout couldn’t pass the fish ladder at the old water mill when water flows intensified. Taderød Bæk has great potential as a trout stream, and the municipality, the landowner and Fishing Zealand are now working on viable and permanent solutions. • In Gribskov kommune har both Esrum Ålaug and Helsinge Sportsfiskerforening have worked for years to establish spawning grounds and create rivershed variation.

42 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

”They coordinate their activity and volunteers from the individual Fishing Zealand municipalities do the hard work” Fishing Zealand has taken responsibility for organizing and supporting the voluntary efforts. This means that the many clubs in the Fishing Zealand municipalities are extra committed to their work and that they receive added support when it comes to restoration and fish conservation management projects. There’s also support when it comes to participating in the overall planning of river management, river surveillance and new river regulations. Involvement in these matters is important to both landowners and authorities, since the clubs possess extensive knowledge of the watersheds, from the smallest streams to the biggest rivers.

Registration of Spawning Activity Our knowledge of the Zealand rivers stems to a great extent from one of the very important voluntary efforts – the registration of spawning activity. This is carried out in many of Fishing Zealand’s municipalities, and the work is rather simple. It consists of club representatives walking along the rivers and counting the number of spawning nests in the local rivers. These numbers are an undeniably clear indication of how big the trout populations are. This voluntary work has been going on in Fishing Zealand municipalities such as Odsherred, Kalundborg, Guldborgsund, Vordingborg and Lejre. In many instances it is even possible to follow the development in population sizes over time, and the authorities, landowners and clubs thus have a valuable tool in assessing what further environmental measures are needed. In some instances the spawning counts unfortunately show that trout populations in certain rivers are in a terrible state. Therefore, the clubs are instrumental when it comes to assisting DTU Aqua (Technical University of Denmark) when they revise the official fish conservation management plans for the individual rivers – something they do every seven years. This is done by surveying a number of designated ‘stations’ along the rivers and making population analyses that will then provide guidelines for how many trout need to be supplemented via brood stocking.

Brood Stocking Is Still Necessary Brood stocking is one of the very important focus areas for the clubs. They coordinate their activity, and volunteers from the individual Fishing

HOW CAN I CONTRIBUTE? If you’re interested in volunteering in order to improve water environment and fishing, check out Fishing Zealand’s website and Facebook. Here we’ll keep you updated on activities, courses and projects. We also encourage you to become a member of one of the local clubs in Sjællands Ørredsammenslutning (Zealand’s Trout Association) or Danmarks Sportsfiskerforbund (Denmark’s Sport Fishing Federation). It is through these clubs and organizations that most of the volunteer work is coordinated.

”This requires special education and a permit since electrofishing involves 220 volts of electricity and wading in rivers” Zealand municipalities do the hard work. Fish stocking is preceded by countless hours of hard work. The fry are usually stocked when they are one year old, and brood stocking therefore has to be planned more than a year in advance. It all starts with the clubs electrofishing for mature spawners. This requires special education and a permit, since electrofishing involves 220 volts of electricity and wading in rivers – something that is potentially dangerous. The electrical current temporarily stuns the fish, which then can be fished up with a net and placed in a water basin – usually by the club’s own fish conservation management people. When the fish are ready, the eggs and sperm are expressed and mixed. Afterwards, the fertilized eggs, and later on the fry – are kept in a hatchery until the date of the stocking. The expressed spawning fish are released back into the river, where they will go back to their usual business. The reason behind this elaborate work is to be found in the trout’s genetics. Research has shown that locally adapted trout are much better equipped when it comes to surviving and successfully reproducing than introduced trout of non-local genetics. That is why electrofishing is done separately in all the individual Zealand rivers, and local trout stocks are kept separate from each other in the hatcheries. For instance mother fish caught in Elverdamsåen in Lejre

Electrode fishing for pre-spawn trout is still necessary to sustain healthy fish stocks in a many of the Zealand rivers.

Kommune are kept separate from mother fish caught in Tuse Å, which is only 10 kilometers away. The goal, obviously, is to eliminate the need of brood stocking. However, at this stage only a few Zealand rivers are self-sustaining when it comes to trout. Therefore, the commitment and hard work of the volunteers, the clubs, the landowners and the municipalities remains pivotal. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Seatrout a la Moen Bladderwrack-smoked Seatrout

By GORDON P. HENRIKSEN Photos: THOMAS IX

Here’s what you need – 1 decent-sized seatrout filet – Dried bladder-wracks from the beach (the black kind) – Some searocket (Cakile maritima) – Pointed cabbage – Red onion – Rapeseed oil – White wine vinegar – Spicy/sweet mustard (preferably from Nyords Sennepsmoelle) – Honey (preferably fresh rape-honey from Tjoernemosegaard) – Salt and pepper – New potatoes – 2 dl Cremefraiche – 200 g smoked fresh cheese (preferably homemade and home smoked) • Some fresh lemon • Freshly baked rye bread • A couple of cold beers – preferably from Bryghuset Moen

44 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

The enthrallingly beautiful coastal shores along Zealand, Moen and Lolland-Falster provide excellent fishing opportunities. And especially the fishing spots below Moen’s majestic chalk cliffs are inspiring and compelling. There’s a high ceiling here, and your thoughts can wander while you’re fishing and waiting for that big silver treasure to strike. The dish ’Seatrout a la Moen’ is inspired by Moen’s coastal shores, the surrounding nature, the fishing and the great catches. It is an attempt at the perfect fishing trip lunch, but it also tastes great as a dish served on the porch or in your dining room. And if you aren’t lucky enough to catch a seatrout below Moen’s cliffs, then it’s fair enough to cheat a little bit – and get a fish from the fish market. The fish can be grilled on a fire, kettle grill or gas grill. Start off by placing the filets on the grill with the meat side down so the tasteful juices are sealed in and the fish shows some nice grill stripes.

Then turn the fish over for a little while – with the skin side facing down. Normally, when you smoke fish, you’ll use smoke dust or chipped bark, but in this case simply pick up some dried seaweed from the beach and throw it on the coals. This provides the fish with a lovely, piquant smoke taste. If you use a gas grill, you can pack some seaweed in tinfoil and put it on the heating elements. Don’t overcook the fish! 15-20 minutes should suffice depending on the heat and the thickness of the filets. If it’s in season you can pick some searocket (Cakile maritima) under the cliffs and sprinkle it on the fish. The green buds with purple flowers are extremely decorative and they give the dish an extra spiff that goes along nicely with the mustard in the pointed cabbage slaw. The pointed cabbage slaw is easy! It simply consists of roughly cut pointed cabbage and some sliced onions. The dressing is made out of rapeseed oil, white wine vinegar, mustard from

Nyords Sennepsmølle, honey (preferably from Tjørnemosegaard) and some salt and pepper. Consider topping it all off with a few sprinkles of searocket. Some local potatoes can usually be bought along the roadside, and you can either cook them in advance or while making the rest of the dish. The smoked creamed cheese is easy to prepare and is a great addition to the smoked taste of the fish. Mix sour cream and smoked fresh cheese 1:1 and season with salt and pepper. Some like capers and herbs in the creamed cheese, but I like to keep things simple. A bit of lemon juice is all I add. Pour a bit of rapeseed oil on the rye bread slices and toast them on the coals. When the fish is done, arrange some of it on the toasted rye bread with smoked fresh creamed cheese, some potatoes and some of the pointed cabbage slaw. The toasted bread, the juicy fish and the smoked fresh cheese taste divine together. Bon appetite, and don’t forget a nice, cool Klintekongen Klassik beer. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Fishing Zealand Business Partners:

Cooperation and Local Anchoring Fishing Zealand is convinced that focusing on broad and cross-disciplinary collaboration is the right strategy in terms of developing Zealand as a fishing destination of international caliber. To succeed in this regard, it is important that as many municipalities as possible support the Fishing Zealand project, and that relevant local businesses get involved. The local businesses provide the visiting fishing tourists with valuable services, and there’s plenty of room for development and economic growth. The local businesses are directly in touch with the fishing tourists. Consequently, it is important that they understand the many aspects of recreational fishing and how they can contribute in developing sustainable fishing tourism services.

Fishing Zealand not only works with enhancing the quality of the Zealand fishing. The project also assists local Zealand businesses and helps them improve their business foundation, scope and services. The businesses in all the Fishing Zealand municipalities are invited to become partners and ease into a mutually beneficial collaboration. They’ll receive whatever consultancy they need in addition to practical assistance when it comes to understanding their target audience, increasing their visibility, arranging events and generating press coverage. In return, Fishing Zealand expects the businesses to nurture a positive dialogue and to contribute to overall sustainability in the Zealand fishing tourism industry.

Fishing Zealand works together with the following Zealand businesses: Vordingborg Kommune

Gribskov Kommune

MØN: Møns Klint Resort (1) moensklintresort.dk

Danhostel Tisvildeleje – Sankt Helene (10) helene.dk

Møn B&B (2) bb-moen.dk

Gilleleje Badehotel (11) gillelejebadehotel.dk

Feriepartner Møn (3) feriepartner.dk/moen

Kysthusene Gilleleje (12) kysthusene.dk

Motel Stege (4) motel-stege.dk

Gun & Country Shop (13) countryshop.dk

Møn Bådene (5) moenbaadene.dk

Roskilde Kommune

Klintholm Havn (6) klintholmhavn.vordingborg.dk Bryghuset Møn (7) bryghusetmoen.dk NYORD: Noorbohandelen (8) noorbohandelen.dk PRÆSTØ: Sweet & Coffee (9) sweetcoffee.dk

46 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Ørsted Fisk & Golf (14) fisk-golf.dk Jan & Bo’s Lystfisker-shop (15) janogbo.dk Lystfiskerhjørnet (16) lystfiskerhjornet.dk Svendsen Sport A/S (17) svendsen-sport.com Roskilde Fiskeland (18) fiskeland.dk

Hove Put and Take (19) hoveputandtake.dk

Rørvig Centret A/S (28) rorvig-centret.dk

Fjordland (20) fjordland.dk

Silva Danica (29) silvadanica.dk

Odsherred Kommune

Kalundborg Kommune

Anneberg Vandrerhjem (21) annebergvandrerhjem.dk

Kalundborg vandrehjem (30) kalundborg-vandrerhjem.dk

Brynshøj Sø Put & Take (22) brynshoej.dk

Urhøj Camping (31) urhoej-camping.dk

DCU-Camping Rørvig Strand (23) camping-roervig.dk

Kaldredgårdens Put and Take (32) kaldredgaarden.com

Egebjerg Landsbyvirksomhed / Fisk og Fro (24) visitegebjerg.dk/friogfro

Ugerløse Feriecenter (33) feriecentret.dk

Feriepartner Odsherred (25) feriepartner.dk/odsherred/ Marianne-F (26) marianne-f.dk Novasol A/S (27) novasol.dk

Lejre Kommune Herslev Bryghus (34) herslevbryghus.dk Ryegaard Gods (35) ryegaard.dk Sagnlandet (36) sagnlandet.dk

”Our cooperation with Fishing Zealand has given us a lot of positive exposure and lead to several big company events. We’re also really pleased about being involved in social efforts and events for children and young people.”

”Fishing Zealand’s ideas about, for instance, tourism based on sustainable principles go hand-in-hand with Herslev Bryghus’ ideals, and we’re happy to be involved in several Fishing Zealand initiatives.”

Birgitte Brandstrup - Ørsted Fisk & Golf, Roskilde Kommune

Tore Jørgensen - Herslev Bryghus, Lejre Kommune

”Our cooperation with Fishing Zealand has led to massive exposure in Danish, German and Dutch media, and it can really be felt now. Furthermore, the foundation for our cooperation suits us very well. We develop ideas and initiatives in keeping with new possibilities - and with sustainable initiatives and memorable experiences in focus.” Ole Eskling, Møns Klint Resort, Vordingborg Kommune 12 11 10 13

26 Restaurant Herthadalen (37) herthadalen.dk

23 28 22 25 21 29 27 24

Maritimt Forsøgscenter (38) maritimtforsoegscenter.dk Ledreborg Gods (39) ledreborg.dk Hvalsø Spisehus (40) hvalsoespisehus.dk

15 36 16 37 39 18 40

33 31

Guldborgsund Kommune

Cottage (41) cottage.dk Hotel Falster (42) hotel-falster.dk Hotel Nørrevang (43) norrevang.dk Hotel Saxkjøbing (44) hotel-saxkjoping.dk Oreby Mølle (45) orebymolle.com Danhostel Nykøbing Falster (46) vesterskoven.dk Oldfruen Bed & breakfast de luxe (47) oldfruen.dk Radstedhus Bed & Breakfast (48) radsted-hus.dk

For additional lodging services: visitlolland-falster.dk visitlolland-falster.de visitlolland-falster.com

9 8 4 3 57 2 6

45 44 48

46 42 47 43

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

Fish and Fishermen:

WHAT IS

’Sustainable Fishing’? Sustainability is a code word in everything that Fishing Zealand does, but what exactly is sustainable fishing? by RASMUS OVESEN

’SUSTAINABILITY’ isn’t simply a diluted political buzzword. In its original sense the word relates to the wear that cultural activities inflict on the natural environment - and a sustainable activity is one that doesn’t impact on or degrade the environment. Sustainability, in other words, is a parameter to safeguard the status quo: something lasting that is neither environmentally, economically or socially degrading. Something that doesn’t collapse under its own weight! Fishing Zealand works exhaustively with the term ‘sustainable fishing’, and project manager Gordon P. Henriksen knows better than anyone else what that means. We have asked him to elaborate and explain how Fishing Zealand defines sustainable fishing and sustainable fishing tourism - and what it implies in terms of the way Fishing Zealand works. - In Fishing Zealand we understand the term sustainability as something lasting and continuous, Gordon explains and continues: - When it comes to fishing and fishing tourism it means that the relating activities need to be future-proof. It is important that there are no obvious conflicts between developing the Zealand fishing opportunities on the one hand and fishing tourism on the other. On the contrary, the two should underpin and support each other. You might very well worry that Fishing Zealand’s work with fish

”Sustainability, in other words, is a parameter to safeguard the status quo: something lasting that is neither environmentally, economically or socially degrading” 48 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

conservation management and river restoration will suffer under the weight of intensifying fishing pressure, but that’s not how Gordon sees it. – We’re convinced that these things go hand in hand – and that we need to work with both focus areas simultaneously. Good fishing draws in fishermen, and intensified fishing tourism generates economy, which – in turn – ensures the political and local latitude necessary to further improve the fishing.

Sustainable Behaviour When Fishing Zealand and Gordon P. Henriksen talk about sustainable fishing, they imply a form of fishing that doesn’t toll on nature or the fish stocks. In this regard, Fishing Zealand has a huge responsibility, Gordon explains. According to Gordon, intensified fishing tourism brings about a need for regulations and management. Therefore, Fishing Zealand is involved in regulatory work, the promotion of Catch & Release where relevant and the production of informational material that heightens the individual fisherman’s consciousness when it comes to general conduct and behavior. For instance, Fishing Zealand has produced pamphlets in several languages, signs and the film “Fishing Rules and Etiquette in Denmark”, which provides an introduction to both written and unwritten rules.

”Intensified fishing tourism brings about a need for regulations and management”

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

”We all have a responsibility when it comes to recruiting new fishermen in Denmark – and to do it with sustainability in mind” - Sustainable fishing is not only about how you regulate and manage the fishing, Gordon says - but also about the behaviour that is nurtured. Fishing Zealand has, for instance, proposed ‘Sustainable Limitations’ in cooperation with Zealand fishing clubs – a proposal that aims at sustainably regulating the numbers and size of fish harvested by fishermen. Also, whenever we arrange new events we always focus on sustainability. The Mackerel Festival is a good example that evolves around a fish species that is capable of withstanding intensified focus and fishing pressure. To a large extent, sustainability is about the attitude of the individual fisherman: His sense of responsibility for nature, the water environment and his fellow human beings. It’s an attitude that the volunteers are exemplary proponents of. – My experience is that more and more fishermen engage in volunteer work and assume responsibility for bettering the fishing possibilities for everyone. Gordon notes that this is an essential part of the term ‘sustainable fishing’. – I’m extremely proud of the hard work that volunteers put in, and I hope that we can help motivate others to follow their example. (See more on page 40)

Children & Young People Sustainability is also an important parameter when Fishing Zealand works with children and young people, Gordon explains. Not least when it comes to ensuring future generations of passionate fishermen. - In Fishing Zealand we’re very conscious of our social responsibility, Gordon explains. Fishing is a healthy activity that sharpens appreciation of nature and enhances the contact with our local environments. Furthermore, it provides people with a heightened sense of self-esteem, great experiences, and quality of life. And in light of this, it is a goal in and of itself to recruit more fishermen. For the fishing industry and the business of fishing tourism in general it is important that new fishermen are recruited, Gordon says. - Fishing Zealand works proactively on promoting fishing at any given opportunity, and we host events and activities for families, children and young people. For instance, we have annual events during the Easter and autumn holidays, and we’re currently working on a TV series aimed at children, young people and beginners.

50 FISHING ZEALAND MAGA ZI NE

Each of us can make a difference. - Gordon suggests, for instance, that you could consider taking the neighbour’s kid fishing,. - We all have a responsibility when it comes to recruiting new fishermen in Denmark – and to do it with sustainability in mind.

Society Is Moulded and Shaped by Sustainability When it comes to society in general, fishing helps create continuity and sustainability. In support of this, Fishing Zealand works on making nature and fishing a communal property that incites engagement in the local environment and politics. It is in numbers that we as fishermen excel! Gordon is convinced that sustainability as a guiding principle seeps into the local communities as a result of the developmental work that Fishing Zealand is a proponent of. - Especially the peripheral communities in Denmark benefit from a focus on sustainable fishing tourism, Gordon explains. – The economic sustainability in many of the country’s smaller municipalities is dependent on innovative ideas and the development of existing resources. Here, fishing tourism is capable of generating new jobs and increased tourism revenues. Furthermore, it sharpens the individual municipality’s competitiveness, creates new business networks, incites green politics and retains citizens.

Sustainable Visions With sustainability as a common thread in Fishing Zealand’s continued work, the Zealand fishing faces a brighter future. Gordon is absolutely sure about this. He points out that more municipalities are about to join the project, and that Fishing Zealand’s influence and scope is gaining momentum. - Fishing Zealand is experiencing rapid growth, but Gordon insists that we should be careful not to lose our focus nor collapse under our own weight. Sustainability is also a principle that we work with internally, and there is no doubt that Fishing Zealand will continue to set a sustainable agenda for the future of Zealand as a fishing destination. <<

THE ANNUAL

Fi shing Zeala n d C on f e r ence The success of the Fishing Zealand project is very much dependent on mutually beneficial collaboration involving different businesses and interests – and this needs to be nurtured and cultivated. Organizing a free conference every year is one means to this end.

”The Fishing Zealand conference represents an opportunity to tell a big audience of industry insiders about Fishing Zealand. Here, you can gain insights into your own business, exchange experiences and establish mutually beneficial networks. It is a good place to start new collaboration within specific business areas and to develop cross-disciplinary networks” – Paul Debois, Chief Consultant, Land og Miljø, Vordingborg Kommune IN ORDER TO strengthen the cooperation across municipalities, tourism agencies and businesses, Fishing Zealand organizes a big annual conference where participants can meet and share information, knowledge and ideas. Businesses, fishing clubs, politicians, organisations, volunteers and guides participate and help conceptualize sustainable fishing tourism. The conferences have proven to be a major success that helps create new business ideas, joint ventures and networks.

A Recurring Phenomenon The conference, which was held for the first time in Præstø in 2014, has turned into an annual event. In 2015 Tisvilde will be hosting the conference, and again this year around 120 interested parties will be participating, bringing relevant ideas and input to the table. For Fishing Zealand, the conference is an opportune occasion to showcase projects, initiatives and results. And it’s not just about fishing. It’s also about sustainability, economy, young people, river and fish conservation management, volunteer work, a better understanding of how fishing tourism is marketed etc.

Workshops, Debate, and Creative Input The conference takes its point of departure in what has already been achieved, but it also looks forward. The conference offers several workshops where visions for the future are debated, and the themes revolve around sustainable fishing tourism, the water environment, research and data collection, social responsibilities, recreational fishing and life quality, brackish water habitat management, local economy etc. In these workshops the participants can acquire new knowledge, develop ideas, network, and acquire new business partners.

Networking Is the Key Oftentimes, because of a lack of expert knowledge or concrete assistance, the distance from idea to action may seem immense. In this regard a good network is essential, and the conference presents the participants with a unique possibility in terms of discussing new ideas and finding new business partners. It’s a place where you meet people from different business areas and a forum where you’re allowed to think aloud and establish cross-disciplinary collaboration in order to lift Zealand fishing to new heights. And that’s exactly what Fishing Zealand’s vision is all about. <<

FISHING ZEALAND M AG A Z I N E

See You on the Water!

facebook.com/fishingzealand

#fishingzealand

@fishingzealand

info@fishingzealand.dk www.fishingzealand.dk