Heritage Fisheries - Traditional Fishing Skills

Heritage Fisheries

Until the last century traditional fish traps made of natural materials had been used since the arrival of the very first peoples to our shores. Plants and trees were grown for their long slender offshoots, which were then platted and woven together to make cordage, nets, weirs and creels that would help sustain the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities for many generations - catching crustaceans and fish to feed their families and trade for other goods at local markets, which forms part of our rich coastal culture and maritime fisheries heritage. We believe in the importance of our history of traditional fishing and the need to start thinking ahead, otherwise centuries of skills and knowledge around our coast will be irretrievably lost forever. Preserving our heritage is crucial, especially as we navigate changes in fishing practices and environmental challenges. By practising and celebrating these traditional methods, we can honour the resilience and resourcefulness of those who relied on them for sustenance and trade.

Minimal Environmental Impact

In accordance with zero plastics, zero environmental impact and sustainable fishing practices, our willow creels are made from a totally renewable and regenerative resource that is natural and 100% biodegradable. Trees are valued for their role in combating carbon and climate change, and for thousands of years willows have been used in various constructive applications as well in medicinal treatments and environmental efforts worldwide. This means that our traditional willow creels are good for the environment and they do not contribute to the issues of marine litter or ghost fishing. Avoiding plastics and minimizing environmental impact aligns with responsible environmental stewardship and contributes to healthier marine ecosystems.