IN The Simpsons Movie, Homer Simpson’s deficiencies as a father are shown at one point by his bizarre approach to fishing – which bears an uncanny resemblance to a new method of harvesting razor clams being trialled by the Scottish Government.
Instead of using a pole-and-line, Homer dips a bug zapper into a lake, electrocuting the fish which float on the surface of the water.
Unfortunately for the bumbling cartoon character, the electric charge in the water also shocks him, making it impossible for him to collect his catch.
It is the stuff of fiction but the Scottish Government has announced it is extending a trial of a very similar method to catch razor clams.
Electrofishing has been trialled officially since 2018 but was practiced illegally before this.
It involves fishers slowing and gently pulling electrodes over the seabed to draw out razor clams burrowed in shallow sand, which are then collected by hand – only the divers are not shocked by the current as Homer is.
The trial has now been extended to 2025.
The Scottish Government said authorised vessels taking part in the trial are subject to strict terms and conditions and exempt from a ban on electrofishing in the EU and a ban on fishing and landing razor clams in Scotland.
They argue electrofishing allows for a high-quality catch with a lower environmental impact on the marine environment than methods like dredging.
Energy and Environment Minister Gillian Martin said: “This unique and innovative trial brings together fishers, scientists, policy-makers and academia to carefully explore the opportunity of diversifying inshore fishing through technology innovation.
“Our Blue Economy Vision is to be a global leader in supplying sustainably sourced and high-quality seafood at home and abroad.
“While there is significant potential for positive economic benefit to coastal communities from a carefully regulated and managed electro-fishery for razor clams, there are legitimate concerns over the use of electricity in fishing. We aim to address this through the remainder of the trial.”
