Fish Index — UK, Ireland & Nordic Fish & Seafood Industry Directory
Sprats are small, oily fish, vital for the UK and Irish seafood industry, primarily caught in the North Sea and English Channel. They are a significant forage fish species.
Peak season for sprats in the UK is typically autumn and winter (October-March). Spawning occurs in spring, with fishing generally avoided then.
Sprat stocks in the North Sea are generally considered healthy. Buyers should seek MSC-certified sources or those from well-managed fisheries for sustainability.
Often smoked, canned, or fried, sprats are popular as a snack or appetizer. They are also used for fishmeal and oil production.
Significant landings occur at East Coast ports like Lowestoft and Peterhead. They are a key species for the UK's pelagic fishing fleet and processing sector.
Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire
Hatfield, Hertfordshire
Falmouth, Cornwall
BOW, LONDON
Grimsby
London, Greater London
GRIMSBY, Lincolnshire
Oldham, Lancashire
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
Urk
Lerwick, Shetland
Swanage, Dorset