North Sea Fish species

Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) is the most important demersal fish species to Scottish Fishermen. There are three stocks of haddock, North Sea, West coast and Rockall which contribute to Scottish landings. In 2008 approximately 29, 500 tonnes of haddock were landed into Scotland, worth 32.7 million. Haddock accounts for around 35% of all demersal whitefish landings into Scotland. The North Sea fishery is by far the most significant; around 90% of haddock is landed into North Sea ports. A variety of types of trawl nets and seine nets are used to catch haddock. Its commercial significance is well recognised and the Scottish industry is currently taking North Sea haddock through Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) assessment against its standard for environmental and sustainable. Part of the Cod family, but doesn't grow as large, and is not usually available beyond 3.5kg. The flesh is not as white as Cod, and is not as flaky, but has a slightly sweeter taste, which is why Haddock is the best whitefish for smoking.