Local fishermen rescue humpback whale off the coast of Skye
Published: 12 February 2025
Two local fisherman were able to successfully rescue a humpback whale found entangled in creel fishing gear to the north east of Skye after training with University of Glasgow researchers
Two local fisherman were able to successfully rescue a humpback whale found entangled in creel fishing gear to the north east of Skye, yesterday, Sunday 9 February.
The two creel fishermen had been fishing further south when a report of the entangled marine animal was received. Luckily, both fishermen had been trained by the Scottish Entanglement Alliance (SEA), and so were able to respond.
Fishermen rescue whale off the coast of Skye, footage by Anthony Rigell
On arrival at the scene, they carried out a full assessment and found the whale was anchored by a single rope around its tail. With the support of SEA colleagues the fishermen proceeded to haul the creel fleet, successfully disentangling the whale ensuring it was free of all rope. They were then able to re-set the fleet of creels.
Ellie MacLennan, SEA project coordinator at the University of Glasgow, said: “This was a great example of the vital role fishermen can and do play in entanglement mitigation, and the importance of understanding not just the animals involved, but also the fishing gear and ground. This whale was entangled in the rope between creels. As is standard in most creel gear this rope was buoyant and would have formed loops in the water which entangled the whale.
“The Scottish Entanglement Alliance is holding ongoing trials of sinking rope, which lies flat on the seabed in collaboration with Scottish creel fishermen. The use of such rope would likely have avoided this entanglement. This work shows that there may be a relatively straightforward mitigation for such entanglements in creel gear which can be led by fishermen.”
The Scottish Entanglement Alliance (SEA), a pioneering coalition of academic institutions, policymakers, regulatory bodies, NGOs, and industry representatives, is spearheading efforts to reduce the risk of marine wildlife entanglement in Scottish waters.
As part of its mission to develop practical, evidence-based solutions, SEA is currently overseeing a trial on sinking rope—an innovative approach aimed at mitigating entanglement risks for marine megafauna, including whales, dolphins, and seals. This crucial research is being led by the University of Glasgow, with the findings expected to inform future policy and industry best practices.
Entanglement in fishing gear remains one of the most significant threats to marine species in Scotland, posing ecological and economic challenges. By working collaboratively across sectors, SEA seeks to develop and implement sustainable solutions that protect both wildlife and livelihoods.
Enquiries: ali.howard@glasgow.ac.uk or elizabeth.mcmeekin@glasgow.ac.uk
First published: 12 February 2025