In 1845, Arran had 98 boats and 380 men employed in herring fishing, including 23 boats at Lamlash, 12 at Lochranza, 9 at Whiting Bay, 9 at Brodick and 8 at Corrie with the remainder spread around the island, mainly at Kildonan and on the West Coast.

Pictorial History of Arran by Andrew Boyle (Alloway, 1994)

 

Of all the 20th century changes in Arran's larder, the demise of its fisheries is the most startling. During the 19th century around four hundred Lochranza men made a living from herring fishing. But when the shoals of herring suddenly disappeared and the fresh fish markets were transferred to the mainland, the Arran fishing fleet slowly dwindled. By the end of World War II the last pair of ringnet fishermen had hung up their nets for good.

What remains, in the way of commercial fishing, is a number of lobster fishermen who can command high prices for their catch, either from hotels on the island or further afield. While some other shellfish such as whelks and razor fish (or spoot fish) are also locally sourced, some may be available on hotel menus but the bulk of the catch are exported. The salmon farm in Lamlash Bay produces young breeding stock rather than mature salmon.

Fishmongers

Given the demise of the fishing industry on Arran, it is not surprising that the island has no traditional fishmonger. Though some of the island butchers also sell fish, the best variety of fresh fish comes from Creelers small fish shop adjoining the smokehouse at Brodick's Home Farm. What is available comes fresh from the boats, either from those landing at Tarbert and Campbeltown or further afield.