Fish Index — UK, Ireland & Nordic Fish & Seafood Industry Directory
Sprats, small pelagic fish, play a niche but historic role in Whitby's seafood industry. While not a primary catch today, their presence reflects the port's diverse fishing heritage. Whitby's coastal waters, part of the North Sea, historically provided suitable habitats for sprat populations, contributing to local fisheries and culinary traditions.
Whitby's processing capacity for sprats is limited, with most landings handled by larger processors elsewhere. Historically, sprats were sold fresh at Whitby Fish Market or used as bait. Today, occasional landings might be processed by local fishmongers like Fusco's of Whitby, though significant commercial trade in sprats is not a defining feature of the modern Whitby fishing economy.