Norwegian fishermen report unprecedented cod concentrations in the Loppa Sea region near Sørøya Island. They describe the area as the new Lofoten due to intense fishing activity.
Jon-Atle Bjørnø, a fisherman and fishing association leader, says the area contains more cod than ever recorded. He completed his 20-ton quota in just three days.
Many fishermen now need only two days to catch their full quotas. This contrasts sharply with nationwide cod quota reductions set for 2026.
The Loppa Sea in western Finnmark has surpassed traditional fishing grounds like Lofoten in boat traffic. Between 15-16% of Norway's small and medium fishing boats currently deliver catches in Hasvik and Loppa municipalities.
Loppa Mayor Cato Kristiansen estimates about 800 boats are fishing in the region. He calls this surge vital for small coastal communities dependent on fisheries.
Fishermen from across Norway are traveling to participate in the rich fishing grounds. The mayor emphasizes that fishing forms the foundation of their coastal society.
Official data shows 17,000 tons of fish landed in the region this year. This represents nearly 1,000 tons more than the same period last year.
Ove Johansen, director at Norway's Raw Fish Association, confirms Loppa and Hasvik have delivered about 5% of all fish traded nationally this year. He predicts record sales for the region.
The situation appears set to continue positively throughout the year. This local boom provides welcome relief amid broader concerns about declining cod stocks.
While scientists warn about shrinking cod populations nationwide, this temporary concentration in northern waters brings economic relief to coastal communities. Such unpredictable stock movements highlight the challenges of sustainable fishery management.