A Glimpse into the Fishing History of St Ives Bay
St Ives Bay, located on the north coast of Cornwall, England, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and rich fishing history. The bay has been a pivotal fishing hub for centuries, playing a significant role in the local economy and culture. This blog post delves into the fascinating fishing history of St Ives Bay and explores the diverse marine life that calls this area home.
Early Beginnings:
The fishing history of St Ives Bay dates back to the medieval period when fishing was one of the primary sources of livelihood for the local community. The natural harbor provided a safe haven for fishing boats, making it an ideal location for a thriving fishing industry.
The Rise of Pilchard Fishing:
By the 16th century, pilchard fishing had become a cornerstone of the local economy. Pilchards, a type of small oily fish, were abundant in the waters of St Ives Bay. The pilchard industry grew rapidly, with fish being salted and packed in barrels for export to Europe, particularly to Spain and Italy, where they were a staple food.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, St Ives was bustling with activity as pilchard fishing reached its peak. The “huer,” a lookout stationed on the cliffs, would signal the arrival of pilchard shoals, and a fleet of boats would rush out to catch the fish. The catch was then processed in “pilchard palaces,” large buildings where the fish were salted and stored.
The Decline and Transformation:
The pilchard industry began to decline in the late 19th century due to overfishing and changing market demands. However, the decline of pilchard fishing did not mark the end of the fishing industry in St Ives Bay. The local fishermen adapted by diversifying their catch to include other fish species such as mackerel, herring, and lobster.
Today, while the scale of fishing has reduced, it remains an integral part of the community. Modern fishing techniques and sustainable practices are now emphasised to ensure the preservation of marine life and the continuation of this age-old tradition.
Marine Life in St Ives Bay
St Ives Bay is not only known for its historical fishing industry but also for its rich and diverse marine life. The bay’s unique geographical location and varying habitats support a wide range of marine species.
Fish Species:
The waters of St Ives Bay are teeming with various fish species, making it a prime location for both commercial and recreational fishing. There are many commercial fishing & boat touring trips avaliable in St Ives Bay, CLICK HERE for some popular options. Some of the most common fish species found in the bay include:
- Pilchards: Once the mainstay of the local fishing industry, pilchards are still found in the bay, although in smaller numbers.
- Mackerel: These fast-swimming fish are popular among anglers and are known for their distinctive striped pattern.
- Herring: Another staple of the local fishing industry, herring are often caught using traditional methods such as drift nets.
- Bass: A prized catch for both commercial fishermen and recreational anglers, bass are known for their fighting spirit and delicious taste.
- Lobster and Crab: The rocky seabed of the bay provides an ideal habitat for lobsters and crabs, which are caught using pots and creels.
Marine Mammals:
St Ives Bay is also a haven for marine mammals, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike. Some of the notable marine mammals that can be spotted in the bay include:
- Seals: Both grey seals and common seals are frequently seen basking on the rocks and swimming in the bay’s waters. Check out our post on Seal Cove HERE
- Dolphins: Several species of dolphins, including the common dolphin and bottlenose dolphin, are known to visit the bay, delighting onlookers with their playful antics. CLICK HERE for our blog post on Dophins and Basking Sharks
- Porpoises: These smaller, shy relatives of dolphins can sometimes be spotted in the bay, particularly during calm weather.
Other Marine Life:
The diverse habitats within St Ives Bay support a wide range of other marine life, including:
- Seabirds: The cliffs and islands around the bay are home to numerous seabird species, such as puffins, gannets, and gulls. These birds rely on the abundant fish stocks for their food.
- Marine Plants and Invertebrates: The intertidal zones and rocky shores of the bay are rich in marine plants like kelp and seaweed, as well as invertebrates such as starfish, sea urchins, and anemones.
Sustainable Fishing Practices
As awareness of the importance of marine conservation grows, sustainable fishing practices have become increasingly vital. In St Ives Bay, local fishermen and conservation groups work together to ensure the health and vitality of the marine ecosystem. Some of the key sustainable practices include:
- Quota Systems: To prevent overfishing, quotas are set for different fish species, ensuring that fish populations remain stable.
- Selective Fishing Gear: Using gear that reduces bycatch (the capture of non-target species) helps to minimize the impact on the marine environment.
- Marine Protected Areas: Designating certain areas as protected zones allows marine life to thrive without the pressures of fishing.
The Future of Fishing in St Ives Bay
The future of fishing in St Ives Bay looks promising, thanks to the dedication of the local community to sustainable practices and marine conservation. The blend of traditional methods and modern techniques ensures that fishing remains a viable industry while preserving the rich marine biodiversity of the bay.
The Evolution of Fishing:
St Ives Bay’s fishing history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the local community. From the bustling days of the pilchard industry to the diverse and sustainable fishing practices of today, the bay continues to be a hub of marine activity. With its abundant marine life and commitment to conservation, St Ives Bay remains a jewel of Cornwall’s coastline, offering a glimpse into the past and a promise for the future. Whether you’re a history buff, a marine enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of the sea, St Ives Bay has something to offer everyone.
