Coastal Dinghy Fishing in Greenland: A Comprehensive Report from 2016 to 2024
The Department for Fisheries, Catching, Agriculture, and Self-Sufficiency has released an enlightening report detailing the evolution of coastal dinghy fishing in Greenland from 2016 to 2024. This analysis covers various aspects, including demographic shifts, catch statistics, and transaction values, with an eye on regional differences.
A Growing Community of Fishermen
According to the findings, the coastal dinghy fishing sector has witnessed a notable increase in participants. The number of dinghy fishermen rose from 1,836 in 2016 to 1,983 in 2024, with a peak of 2,047 reached in 2019.
An Increase in Female Participation
The report highlights an encouraging trend: the growing involvement of women in dinghy fishing. The proportion of female fishermen climbed from a mere 0.3% to 1.3% over the eight-year span. Most notably, the Upernavik region stands out, boasting 12 female dinghy fishermen in 2024, constituting 3% of the total in that area.
Younger Faces in Fishing
The report also reveals that a younger generation is increasingly drawn to this profession. The proportion of fishermen under 40 rose from 37% in 2016 to 41% in 2024, indicating a shift in demographics. Conversely, the share of fishermen over 40 declined from 63% to 59%. Notably, Qaanaaq experienced the most significant decrease in the number of fishermen (down by 22), while Nuuk saw its ranks swell by 54.
A Comprehensive Overview
This extensive report not only examines the general trends in dinghy fishing—characterized by vessels smaller than six meters—but also breaks down data by specific management areas, including:
- East Greenland
- South Greenland
- Nuuk
- Sisimiut-Maniitsoq
- Disco Bay
- Uummannaq
- Upernavik
- Qaanaaq
By providing a precise and nuanced picture of the development of dinghy fishing across Greenland, the report sheds light on various factors. It highlights the most viable species for each area, identifies peak fishing months, and discusses trends in purchase values and earnings per fisherman.
“The report paints a vivid portrait of coastal fishing’s trajectory in different regions,” said a department spokesperson. “It reflects shifts in age demographics and reveals the growing potential of dinghy fishing as a sustainable livelihood.”
For those interested in delving deeper into this captivating report, more information is available through the department’s publications.