Clam Fishery Trials - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Clam Fishery Trials – THE results of a clam fishery trail in Thames Estuary waters have returned promising results, in a scheme aimed at nurturing seafood for the local fishing industry.

Clam Fishery Trials - THE results of a clam fishery trail in Thames Estuary waters have returned promising results, in a scheme aimed at nurturing seafood for the local fishing industry.

THE results of a clam fishery trail in Thames Estuary waters have returned promising results, in a scheme aimed at nurturing seafood for the local fishing industry.

The Kent and Essex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) conducted the Manila clam fishery trials between October 2 and October 25 on the Foulness Sand within the Shoebury Firing Range and the at the Buxey Sand.

Eight vessels took part in the trail with a range of fishing apparatus, including suction dredges similar to those used by cockling boats from Leigh, alongside new dredge designs.

Chairman John Lamb reportedly said that the results were “very encouraging” for the Leigh fishing industry, adding: “For so many decades, cockles have been the primary shellfish species here in the Thames, forming the basis of the Leigh fishing fleet.”

Erstwhile fisherman and Leigh Town Councillor Peter Wesham commented that clam dredging would be successful if managed sustainably.

He said: “Having spoken to some of the fisherman that have taken part in the Clam trial it looks good for the future, as long as it is sustainably controlled.

“The dredges that are towed seem to be very effective, but work needs to be done to stop the small Clams getting caught up.

“The back of the drudge gets full and they have to sort them out from the sizable clams, and there is less damage this way than with the suction dredgers that have more damage and chips, because clams have a less robust shell to the cockles.

“The heavy suction sledge does leave damaged clams on the ground.”

Coun Wexham added: “This was the first trial and now a lot of thought from the fisherman and the fishery officers of the Kent & Essex IFCA need to be done to improve on the situation before the second trial can go ahead.”

The Fisheries and Conservation Authority says further work needs to be undertaken, specifically over the winter and next spring, to clearly define how a future fishery could operate.

The next trial will likely take place in 2025 at a time similar to when this trial was conducted.

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