Preliminary Investigations of the Sprat stocks off the South coast of Ireland

Abstract

The development of a new fishery for sprat off the south coast is reviewed. The fishery during 1976 and 1977 produced over 1,600 tons of sprat, valued at over £92,000. The quality of sprat landed was excellent throughout the fishing period. While it is difficult to estimate the size of the stock in the area, it would appear that landings could be substantially increased. This, together with the quality of the sprat, could make this fishery a valuable alternative to the Celtic Sea herring fishery.