The Clyde is “unique” or a “microcosm of Scottish inshore fishing” are statements often used, except in reality it’s not, or it shouldn’t be. The level of attention the Clyde attracts in terms of fishing given the size of the marine area is truly astounding. It can also be wearying to those fishing who genuinely want sustainable fisheries management policy, but feel they have become political footballs or are being dragged into media flare-ups contrived for sensationalism rather than solutions.
This approach of grappling for coverage seems to work for some groups, particularly those who value a high profile and want to attract political pressure and perhaps funding. For others who perhaps don’t work in the campaigning field, like fishermen generally, it can be frequently unproductive and funnel very limited time away from the work needed for improving fisheries management, or working sustainably at sea. The Clyde has certainly become a marine region of intense interest.
The strain this has placed on small-scale embattled fishing communities cannot be underplayed. It feels significantly out of balance and proportion. In recent years many involved in local fishing feel level-headed decisions have given way to management by pressure, not by dialogue, partnership or even science.
Campaigns have become almost gladiatorial in nature. Numerous interest groups gather as jousting for the dominant narratives begins over and over with predictable frequency. Small-scale fis.