The mackerel season is now well underway with fish located in waters east of Orkney, and very close to Shetland and Peterhead, with the short steaming times to port resulting in excellent quality fish.

Mackerel average sizes are around 430/460 grams at the moment and all Scottish processing plants are in full production.

Meanwhile, the prospects for next year are looking good, with the stock in great shape, and the EU, Norway and the Faroe Islands agreeing a quota increase for 2020 in line with the scientific advice.

Robert Duthie of the Scottish Pelagic Processors Association, said: “With a healthy stock and our fleet working a sustainable fishery, mackerel makes a great purchasing choice for the consumer. It is packed full of heart-healthy Omega 3 and essential minerals. Mackerel also tastes great, whether fresh, smoked or canned.”