2020 News
Festive Fishing Boats21st December, 2020
Fishing boats Sunbeam and Ventura all dressed for Christmas down in Axmouth Harbour decorated by Lyme Bay Reserve fishermen Gavin Ziemann and brother Charlie.
High tide to low tide16th December, 2020
What a contrast to the morning's high tide video footage where the waves were coming up high against the harbour wall. With the weather set fair tomorrow fingers crossed the fishermen based at Axmouth can get out to catch some sustainable fish and shellfish from within Lyme Bay Reserve.
“I’d rather be home in the dry”
16th December, 2020
A short video filmed this morning down on Axmouth harbour by Axmouth fisherman Gavin Ziemann, aptly named "I’d rather be home in the dry". During times of high tides and gales, if visiting the harbour, please stay on the road side of the wall, and take note of any advice given by the local fishermen. If you're interested about life down on this historic harbour why not follow The Quayside. Home Of The Axmouth Fishermen Facebook page.
Happy Fish Friday
11th December, 2020
A bountiful wet fish counter awaits you at the Lyme Bay Fish Shack. Delicious, sustainably caught fish and shellfish from Lyme Bay Reserve along with other varieties sourced from Brixham Market. From Cornish Hake, Haddock, Cod and Plaice to Turbot, Brill, Scallops, John Dory and Squid among many other varieties. Call in and pick up a treat for the weekend. Located at Millers Farm Shop, Axminster.
Photo by Lyme Bay Fish Shack
Beautiful Beer10th December, 2020
Beautiful day for Beer fisherman Jim Newton fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve. Head on down to Beer Fisheries Ltd. to find out what sustainable fishy delights Jim has brought ashore.
Photo by Beer Fisheries.
Festive Fish?9th December, 2020
The Lyme Bay Fish Shack have been out on their small-scale boat, KT-Sam, in Lyme Bay Reserve over the past days catching some low-impact, sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay. Thinking of having fish over this festive period? Call in and ask what amazing deals are on offer and help support your local fishing fleet and fishmongers.
www.millersfarmshop.co.uk/meats-and-fish Photo by Lyme Bay Fish Shack
Time to test your fishy knowledge7th December, 2020
Lyme Bay fisherman Gavin Ziemann from Axmouth Harbour took these photos of some fish that came aboard his boat last week. Can you identify them? Failing that pop down to one of the local fish mongers where you can buy them for tea! By supporting your local fishmonger you are also supporting the local, small-scale fishermen that operate from Axmouth Harbour and the other ports along Lyme Bay; West Bay, Lyme Regis and Beer.
Research Published2nd December, 2020
Important research just published which outlines some of the effects of the Lyme Bay Reserve MPA (Marine Protect Area) on local fishers and fisheries:
Buy sustainable fish from fishermen in Lyme Bay1st December, 2020
Beer Fisheries: beerfisheries.co.uk Call 4 Fish: call4fish.com/lymebay Pesky Fish: peskyfish.co.uk Lyme Bay Fish Shack, Millers Farm Shop Mark Hix Food Truck, Felicity's Farm Shop Just Fish, Seaton
Did you miss the premiere of “Lyme Bay: The Road to Recovery”?
25th November, 2020
Don’t worry! You can still watch the film on YouTube. Don't miss out on this incredible collaborative story of fishing and conservation: https://bit.ly/2J0qaTF #LymeBayRecovery
Happy #FishFriday
20th November, 2020
Brighten up your Friday and take a trip to the bottom of the Lyme Bay Reserve seabed and watch this starfish in slow motion action.
Did you know starfish move with hundreds of feet! They are equipped with lots of tiny feet at the end of each arm. To move, they fill these feet with seawater, causing the arm to move like a foot would. This mechanism allows the starfish to move - much quicker than you might expect!
For more starfish factoids visit: https://bit.ly/3kSddIC
Video by University of Plymouth
Festive recipes from Call 4 Fish
17th November, 2020
It may only be mid-November but local Lyme Bay chef Mark Hix, in collaboration with Call 4 Fish, have whipped up this delicious fishy recipe for you to try during the festive period. Looking at where to source your fish?
Look no further. Beer Fisheries Ltd have a wide selection of fish and shellfish delivered straight to your door. For details head over to their website: www.beerfisheries.co.uk/our-services
Helping to support the small-scale fishing fleet of Lyme Bay Reserve #LocalFishForDinner
Happy #FishFriday13th November, 2020
Lyme Bay Reserve is home to a thriving small-scale fishing fleet and one such fishing vessel is KT-SAM E10 crewed by father and son Nigel and Sam Birt. Over the past week they have caught some line-caught bass and netted some skate, all of which can be bought from their shop the Lyme Bay Fish Shack based at Millers Farm Shop in Axminster. Treat yourself to this low-impact sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay and support your local fishermen. Photos by Nigel & Sam.
Harbour life in Axmouth12 November, 2020
Lyme Bay Reserve fisherman Gavin Ziemann from Axmouth harbour in East Devon reports on what life is like down on Axmouth harbour as he heads into the winter months: "Well, it’s been quiet down at the harbour the last few weeks due to the inclement weather. Fishermen have been working on gear and also taking advantage of not being able to get to sea by having their safety equipment away for annual servicing and certification. Now we have had a couple of days of fine weather and now lockdown #2.
Fortunately, as before, we can still go to sea when weather permits so please keep supporting our local fish shop Just Fish in Harbour Road, Seaton. Here is a couple of pictures of some of the fish and shellfish heading to the shop from yesterday’s landing (07.11.2020). Thank you all for your continued interest and support in the local fishing community in Seaton and Axmouth".
Just Fish
37 Harbour Rd, Seaton EX12 2LX
01297 24200
2nd November, 2020
As we approach another lockdown don't forget that Beer Fisheries Ltd in Beer, East Devon, provide a home delivery service, both locally and nationwide, supplying the finest fresh fish and shellfish these shores have to offer.
Deliveries run from Monday to Friday (Saturday on request). For national orders these can be placed Monday to Sunday to then be delivered Tuesday to Saturday. You can place orders until 12:30pm for same day delivery or until 2pm for next day local delivery or nationwide.
As well as a full counter of fresh fish daily caught sustainably out in Lyme Bay they also offer frozen products, shellfish, box deals, hampers, discounts and much more. Get in touch and help support the small-scale fishing fleet of Lyme Bay Reserve.
Discover life under the waves of Lyme Bay20th October, 2020
This video of lobsters jousting over bait was filmed during summer by the University of Plymouth as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve recovery monitoring work. The pole you can see is a metre in length with a baited cage at the end in order to attract all nearby animals into the field of view.
The video shows an abundance of marine life in Lyme Bay; from floral and fauna, to fish and crustacean species, and is analysed back at Plymouth University's Marine Institute and makes up a significant part of the recovery monitoring project. How many species can you spot?
That’s right, we’re looking at you!
14th October, 2020
The Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Reserve) need you to nominate your ocean hero for the 2021 Ocean Awards. Do you know an inspiring campaigner, scientist, young conservationist, innovator or business making a significant contribution to the health of our ocean? Nominate them today:
www.bluemarinefoundation.com/projects/the-ocean-awards
10th October, 2020
Wonderful news from the Queen’s Birthday Honours List as the absolute legend that is Lyme Bay Reserve fisherman David Sales receives an BEM for services to commercial fishing and the environment. Pictured here in the fishing port of West Bay with Mandy from the Blue Marine Foundation, facilitators of Lyme Bay Reserve.
More details on this wonderful news to follow.
Lyme Bay Fish Shack6th October, 2020
Another busy week for the guys at the Lyme Bay Fish Shack catching some sustainable plaice direct from their own boat KT-SAM fishing out of Lyme Regis within Lyme Bay Reserve.
Plaice is a flatfish native to UK waters and is recognisable by its bright orange spots on the dark side of the skin. The fish has been eaten in Britain for hundreds of years and was considered a poor man’s food in Victorian times as it was so plentiful and cheap.
Thinking of ways to cook this delicious, sweet flavoured fish? Check out these recipes
www.greatbritishchefs.com/how-to-cook/how-to-cook-plaice
Photo by Lyme Bay Fish Shack
Fresh & Local1st October, 2020
A wonderful spread from the guys at the Lyme Bay Fish Shack from their boat 'KT-Sam' fishing out of Lyme Regis. From sustainable, line-caught Sea Bass to Dover Sole, Brill, Gurnards, Ray Wings and Huss.
Support your local fishmonger and the small-scale fishing fleet of Lyme Bay Reserve and head over to the Fish Shack based at Millers Farm Shop in Axminster. Open 9am-4pm Monday to Saturday. Delivery available on all fish and shellfish.
#SupportLocal
23rd September, 2020
This baited video of a ray was filmed during the summer by the University of Plymouth as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve recovery monitoring work.
Head over to our website to discover the vast array of marine species which live and thrive in Lyme Bay: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life/
Lyme Bay Fish Shack
17th September, 2020
Seasonal delights from the guys at the Lyme Bay Fish Shack based at Millers Farm Shop in Axminster. With Dover Sole, Crab and Lobster coming straight off their boat, you can't get fresher or more sustainable than this. Treat yourself to some of Lyme Bay's low-impact, sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood.
Dolphins in Lyme Bay15th September, 2020
Look who came to say hello to the guys from the Lyme Bay Fish Shack whilst out fishing in Lyme Bay last week. Have any of our followers had an encounter like this during the summer in Lyme Bay?
Fishy Factoid
11th September, 2020
Check out this underwater video of a conger eel filmed by University of Plymouth during the summer as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve recovery monitoring work. Congers are scaleless eels with large heads, large gill slits, wide mouths, and strong teeth. They are usually grey or black with pale bellies and black-edged fins. Carnivorous fish they are found in all oceans, sometimes in deep water and may grow up to 1.8 metres (6 feet). Many species, such as the European conger (Conger conger), are valued as food.
Beer Fisheries
8th September, 2020
To celebrate reaching over 1,000 followers on Facebook, Beer Fisheries gave the opportunity for Facebook followers to win a family feast which consisted of a large brill, salmon, a large John Dory and a large crab.
What other species can you identify?4th September, 2020
This footage of a Ray skimming the seabed of Lyme Bay Reserve during a recent survey was filmed during the summer by the University of Plymouth as part of the Lyme Bay Reserve recovery monitoring work. It shows the abundance of marine life in the Bay from floral and fauna to fish and crustacean species.
Happy #FishFriday
28th August, 2020
Planning on cooking up a fishy feast this Bank Holiday weekend? Then head down to one of the fishmongers who line our coast and support the sustainable, small-scale fishermen of Lyme Bay Reserve from the ports of West Bay, Lyme Regis, Axmouth and Beer.
Beer Fisheries Ltd
Beer, Devon
Phone: 01297 20297
www.beerfisheries.co.uk
Free local delivery available.
Lyme Bay Fish Shack
Miller's Farm Shop
Kilmington, Devon
Phone: 01297 552176
Free local delivery available.
Just Fish, Seaton, Devon
Phone: 01297 24200
Photo by www.jamesbowden.net
On the lookout for sustainable fish?27th August, 2020
The Lyme Bay Fish Shack has a fresh fish counter full of fresh, line-caught fish direct from their own boat fishing in Lyme Bay Reserve and from Brixham Fish Market. Pictured here is young fisherman Sam Birt with an impressive line-caught bass heading straight to the counter.
Visit them at Millers Farm Shop, Kilmington, Axminster
www.millersfarmshop.co.uk/meats-and-fish
26th August, 2020
Meet Gavin Ziemann and Pandora the lobsters. Lyme Bay is home to many scientific projects and ROPE (Response Of predators to Protection and Enhancement) is one such project currently being conducted out in the bay.
Dr Adam Rees, Marine ecologist at University of Plymouth & Blue Marine Foundation managed to get out between storms and recaught them weeks after they were tagged as part of the project. For more details head over to: sheehanresearchgroup.com/rope
Stormy Seas21st August, 2020
Stormy conditions in Beer today for the fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve. Something tells us they won't be heading out in this!
Fresh fish from Beer Fisheries
19th August, 2020
Freshly caught fish and shellfish in abundance at Beer Fisheries Ltd, Seahill, Beer Beach in Devon. From sustainable, line-caught Bass and Mackerel to Hand-dived Scallops, Skate, Pollack and much more.
Support the sustainable small-scale fishermen of Lyme Bay Reserve and take a trip down Seahill and visit owner and fishmonger Mark to plaice (pun intended) your order.
Free local deliveries and courier services available.
Visit their website for more details: www.beerfisheries.co.uk
18th August, 2020
Footage by Lyme Bay Reserve fisherman Nafe Cox from onboard his small-scale fishing boat 'Our Phyllis Rose' whilst heading back into Axmouth harbour.
Situated at the mouth of the River Axe, Axmouth harbour is formed behind a large shingle bank. The narrow (approx. 10m) entrance is located beneath Haven Cliff and is open to the prevailing south westerlies and formed between the shingle spit to the west and a short stone piled pier to the east.
Project ROPE is live!7th August, 2020
Project ROPE (Response Of predators to Protection and Enhancement) uses acoustic receivers to track crab, lobster and sea bass to understand how mobile species of commercial importance interact with an offshore longline mussel farm using acoustic telemetry. The first critters were tagged and given a royal send off this week out in Lyme Bay and already 'Sarah H' crab has been recaptured at the Lyme Bay mussel farm, 1/2 a mile east of where she was released within just one day.
For more details about this EMFF and Dorset FLAG funded project head over to their website: sheehanresearchgroup.com/rope
Photos by Dr Emma Sheehan, Senior Research Fellow University of Plymouth.
Boats launching in Beer, Devon4th August, 2020
Time-lapse footage of fishermen launching their boats from the shingle beach in Beer; home to the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve.
With the weather set fair for the rest of the week the fishermen will be launching their boats and heading out into Lyme Bay to catch seasonal species by sustainable methods such as potting and rode and line.
3rd August, 2020
After being closed for four long months Seaton Jurassic opens its doors ready for the summer holidays! Seaton Jurassic will take you on a journey like no other – back in time! Share the excitement of the discoveries made by local fossil hunters, geologists and evolutionary-thinkers as they uncovered the stories of life on Earth.
And as you venture outside into the grounds of the Centre you can also discover the inner working of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve with a replica working harbour with loads of hands-on activities and a fun garden to explore. You’ll have a great day out whatever the weather! Your adventure starts here.
Seaton Jurassic have missed their visitors, so to show their appreciation they have reduced their prices! Book your timed entry tickets online for a further discount!
seatonjurassic.org. Photo ©Seaton Jurassic.
24th July, 2020
Brixham fishermen got the surprise of their lives when they spotted a whale in Lyme Bay yesterday morning. Lyme Bay is a popular area for many diverse marine species including dolphins, sunfish and now whales! Check out our website to discover more.
www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life/
www.bbc.co.uk/…/uk-e…/breaching-whale-cheers-devon-fishermen
24th June, 2020
Views from small-scale fishing boats Sunbeam and Ventura whilst out fishing in Lyme Bay this week. Happy #FishFriday 🐟
Say hello to Lyme Bay fisherman Dave Hancock23rd July, 2020
Dave fishes from The Quayside. Home Of The Axmouth Fishermen and is a member of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve. Earlier on in the week Dave headed out in to Lyme Bay fishing for Bream via rode and line – a sustainable method of catching fish within the Bay. Interested to find out what other species are caught in Lyme Bay? Head over to our website to discover more www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/marine-life
This photo of Dave was taken last year along the Axmouth quayside.
Photo by www.jamesbowden.net
23rd July, 2020
Great article by Charles Clover, Executive Director of the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Reserve) on 'How fishermen found a Covid silver lining with the public's "chance to reconnect with the amazing seafood in our waters".
www.devonlive.com/…/how-fishermen-found-covid-silver-4347047
15th July, 2020
This 30 second clip from a recent baited video survey in Lyme Bay filmed by University of Plymouth shows an abundance of marine life. Filmed as part of the Lyme Bay MPA (Marine Protected Area) long-term monitoring fieldwork by the University of Plymouth.
Please watch & share the film:
13th July, 2020
Stunning photos from Axmouth in East Devon, taken this weekend, capturing fisherman Charlie Ziemann returning to shore following a day of potting on-board his boat Sunbeam. Potting is one of the sustainable methods of fishing used within Lyme Bay Reserve of which Amxouth is one of the fishing ports. The other ports which make up the Reserve are West Bay and Lyme Regis in West Dorset and Beer in east Devon.
Photos by Carolyn Louise Nation
#HOMEANDDRY8th July, 2020
#HOMEANDDRY is a new sea safety campaign, launched yesterday, with lots of information for #seafarers; from training to equipment and more.
The campaign is asking fishermen across the UK to take small steps to improve their safety at sea so they can get back to their loved ones #HomeAndDry. Home and Dry is not here to tell fishermen how dangerous fishing is, they know that already. Rather, we want to remind them who they go fishing for, and what brings them back safely.
Follow us on Facebook Home and Dry
Follow us on Instagram @backhomeanddry
Visit: http://homeanddry.uk
Share what gets you back #HomeAndDry using the #!
Like their Facebook page for updates or check out their website for information on sea safety.
Please watch & share the film:
7th July, 2020
Use the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) FREE Digital Education Resources to teach your children about the ocean!
Find the resources here: www.bluemarinefoundation.com/…/03/25/blue-digital-education/
Happy Fish Friday3rd July, 2020
Renowned local chef Mark Hix, supporter of Reserve Seafood which markets the low-impact sustainable, premium-quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay, will be cooking up a storm from his fish truck over the weekend from 9am until 3pm at Felicity's Farm Shop, Dorset. The fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve will be supplying Mark with some of the most delicious, seasonal, sustainably caught fish Lyme Bay has to offer.
For more details about this product head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/
Local sales go nationwide2nd July, 2020
The Lyme Bay Fish Shack talks to Fishing News about being involved with Call 4 Fish whose Covid-driven initiative to connect the local industry with local consumers has now transformed prospects for fishermen nationwide.
Read more in this week's Fishing News or via the link below https://fishingnews.co.uk/…/call4fish-local-sales-go-natio…/
Picture of young Lyme Bay skipper Sam Birt of the Lyme Bay Fish Shack onboard his boat KT-SAM E10.
Reefs in Lyme Bay1st July, 2020
The East Tennants Reef in Lyme Bay supports one of densest and most extensive populations of seafans in the English Channel. The seafans found here are notable for their large size in addition to the high density found here and that is why the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve aims to look after this rich habitat through sustainable fisheries management.
Local underwater photographer Colin Munro who filmed this rocky reef in about 24-29 meters approximately 5 miles offshore describes the reefs in Lyme Bay as mostly low lying and the waters tend to be fairly gloomy and turbid. As this is essentially a large, open, sandy bay exposed to the prevailing winds, then significant amounts of suspended sediment are the norm.
Whilst winds may ease in summer, it is also prone to strong plankton blooms during May and June, with a second less pronounced bloom in late summer. Thus underwater visibility rarely exceeds 10 metres (30ft) and frequently may be less than 3 metres (10ft). The reefs in the bay, though numerous in the centre and east, are mostly discontinuous, forming a patchwork of low rocky outcrops surrounded by sediment. This means that they tend to be covered by thin veneers of sediment as tide and wave action lifts and sweeps sand across them. This makes it a rather challenging environment for the underwater photographer. Low light levels and high levels of suspended sediment producing lots of backscatter from lights making for tricky problems in producing good images.
Filmed by Colin Munro: www.colinmunrophotography.com
Underwater lighting by Sean Leake
Beautiful Beer
29th June, 2020
The fishing port of Beer in East Devon is home to fishermen of the the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve. With sailing, fishing, smugglers, caves, model trains, fab food, independent shops and great places to stay, Beer has it all and we think it’s one of the best places to visit and we know our fishermen think the same.
Check out the Beervillageuk Facebook page which is brimming with stories about this beautiful fishing village.
Photo: Beervillageuk
Happy Fish Friday26th June, 2020
Anyone for a BBQ smoked fish bap with pickled red onions? Cooked by renowned local chef Mark Hix from his fish truck today until 3pm and over the weekend from 9am onwards at Felicity's Farm Shop, Dorset. The fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve will be supplying Mark with some of the most delicious, seasonal, sustainably caught fish Lyme Bay has to offer. Get on down for your chance to sample this low-impact sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood.
For more details about this product head over to: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood/
Hix Oyster & Fish Truck25th June, 2020
Renowned local chef Mark Hix will be back at Felicity's Farm Shop Morcombe lake (off the A35) this weekend between, 9am and 3pm, serving up culinary delights from his seafood truck. A wide selection of wet fish caught by fishermen of Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve is on the menu and for sale, including sustainably caught Mackerel and Gurnard, all as day-catch fresh off the boats throughout the weekend.
Get there early to avoid missing out and for your chance to quiz Mark about the best ways to cook some of the finest fish and shellfish our shores have to offer.
Spotted in Lyme Bay24th June, 2020
A crawfish or spiny lobster (Palinurus elephas) was caught last week within Lyme Bay Reserve. Fisherman Andy Spiller from Axmouth took the photos before returning it back to the water. They have been making a comeback in recent years in the Southwest. Last seen in abundance 50+ years ago! Have you encountered anything out of the ordinary whilst in Lyme Bay? Share your sightings with us – we'd love to hear!
Lobster storage facility in full swing22nd June, 2020
Mandy Wolfe, the South West Coordinator at the Blue Marine Foundation who are facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve, visited Axmouth harbour last week to check in on how the new lobster storage facility is being used by the fishermen. The store allows the Lyme Bay fishermen to keep their lobster catch on shore in temperature controlled filtered water which reduces losses from store pots at sea.
The East Devon Fishermen’s Association, led by assistant harbourmaster and Lyme Bay fisherman Angus Walker (pictured), hit on the idea of building this state-of-the-art lobster store and approached the Dorset and East Devon Fishermen’s Local Action Group (FLAG) for a grant. They agreed to fund 60% of the cost and the Blue Marine Foundation agreed to finance the balance.
Clawsome!19th June, 2020
Did you know Brown Crabs (Cancer pagurus) on average live for about 30 years and some have been known to live until they are 100! And a mature adult crab may have a shell width of up to 25cm which is about the size of a dinner plate!
Brown crabs are caught sustainably in Lyme Bay using pots. This photo was taken at the fishing port of Beer in Devon. Beer is home to a sustainable, small-scale fishing fleet which makes up the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve along with the fishing ports of West Bay and Lyme Regis in Dorset and Axmouth in Devon.
Check out these crab facts by the Marine Conservation Society: tinyurl.com/y9qlkg3y
Photo: James Bowden: www.jamesbowden.net
18th June, 2020
Sit back, relax and listen to the Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE) 'Fish for Dinner' podcast produced by Planet Pod. Hear how BLUE (facilitators for the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) are supporting sustainable fishing to ensure the fish caught in native waters are getting to customers while COVID-19 has shut down the routes to market, keeping the fishing industry afloat.
https://theplanetpod.com/local-fish-for-dinner/
Happy Fish Friday12th June, 2020
Why not mix up your meals and have fish for dinner this weekend and enjoy the health benefits fish has to offer as well as supporting the small-scale fishing fleet of Lyme Bay.
The Lyme Bay Fish Shack have some amazing fresh fish on offer with some stunning line-caught Bass and Pollock from fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve.
Lyme Bay fisherman John Wallington (second boat from end, E584 Outcast) will also be selling line caught Bass, Cod, Pouting and Pollock tomorrow between 11-12 from the harbour side in Axmouth. Please bring a bag and respect social distancing.
And if you're in Seaton why not drop in to see Phil at Just Fish (37 Harbour Road, Seaton, EX12 2LX) who also has a fine selection of fish, crab and lobster. Call Phil on 01297 24200 for availability.
Photos from onboard fisherman Charlie’s boat10th June, 2020
Fisherman Charlie Ziemann fishing crab and lobster pots off his boat Sunbeam from Axmouth Harbour.
Photos: Carolyn Louise Nation
Axmouth fishing fleet5th June, 2020
Beautiful photos of the Axmouth fishing fleet moored up in the evening sun. Give the The Quayside. Home Of The Axmouth Fishermen a follow on Facebook for all the latest news, catches and stories from quayside.
Photos: Sean Toher
Cooking with Chef Tim Maddams2nd June, 2020
Chef Tim Maddams loving the Turbot and Gurnard purchased from the Lyme Bay Fish Shack;
"Massive thanks to the Lyme Bay Fish Shack for this spankingly good Turbot and Gurnard - love those guys, such a great attitude and really, really great fish. Check them out!"
Support your local fish mongers and the small-scale fishing fleet of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve and bag yourself some sustainable fish and shellfish.
Photo: Tim Maddams www.timmaddams.com
Happy Fish Friday29th May, 2020
Treat yourself to some sustainably caught fish and shellfish from the Lyme Bay Fish Shack in Axminster. They have lots of local fish caught within the Lyme Bay Reserve on the counter today. Pop in for some great deals and help support the local inshore fishing fleet.
Impressive office window20th May, 2020
Lyme Bay fisherman Gavin Ziemann certainly has an impressive view from his office window this morning as he heads out to sea from Axmouth harbour for a day of fishing. Stay tuned here for dates and times for when the fishermen of Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve will be selling their catch on quayside. #LocalFishForDinner
Fishy Factoid19th May, 2020
Lyme Bay fisherman Jim Newton from Beer in East Devon hauling his fishing boat 'Bess' back up on to the beach.The fishing village of Beer lies between Branscombe and Seaton on the East Devon coast. There are no natural harbours here so the fishing boats are towed up onto the beach using tree trunks to aid movement. A series of winches lay along the back of the beach and are connected to the boats by strong wires. When it is time to go to sea a tractor pushes them back into the water.
Photo by www.jamesbowden.net
Lyme Bay Monkfish14th May, 2020
This ugly fish (some might say) has a huge head accounting for half its weight. Also known as an Anglerfish the Monkfish has inner beauty – once skinned and the membrane removed the tails have a fantastic meat with a firm, meaty texture and a similar taste to langoustine. You can buy Lyme Bay Monkfish from our local fishmongers; Beer Fisheries Ltd and Lyme Bay Fish Shack who are both offering free, local delivery. Or contact Call 4 Fish for UK delivery of this sustainably caught fish.
Thinking of ways to cook this fish? The Blue Marine Foundation has some delicious recipes for you to try your hand at: https://bit.ly/2Yo1ecr
Quayside Facebook Group13th May, 2020
Interested in what's going on in Axmouth Harbour? The Quayside Facebook Group has been created to give you an insight into this incredible corner of East Devon; the characters of the harbour, the techniques used to catch the freshest fish and shellfish, how they are stored and distributed and just how sustainable this team of fishermen are. Give them a follow and discover more.
In the market for some sustainably caught fish? Keep a look out for dates and times posted on the Quayside Facebook Group for when Axmouth fishermen will be selling their catch on quayside. A unique opportunity to buy some of the finest seafood these shores have to offer at the same time as supporting the local, small-scale fishing fleet. #LocalFishForDinner
Educating during lockdown12th May, 2020
Thinking of creative ways to keep children entertained and educated during lockdown?
The Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE) – facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve – have designed a number of educational activities that are inspired by their incredible project sites and they are FREE for your use. BLUE has found that the more people learn about the ocean, the more they become passionate about protecting it. Explore the link below to learn more about the weird and wonderful creatures you can find in the ocean, their habitats and why it is important to protect them.
www.bluemarinefoundation.com/2020/03/25/blue-digital-education/
Mark Hix cooks #LocalFishForDinner7th May, 2020
Watch Lyme Bay chef Mark Hix as he cooks up some sustainably caught lobster from Lyme Bay Reserve served with asparagus and wild garlic, cooked and filmed on the Blue Marine Foundation Instagram account last week.
Make good use of the abundance of wild garlic and the availability of fresh fish and shellfish from our small-scale fishing fleet here in Lyme Bay. To source your lobsters get in touch with Call 4 Fish and they will deliver direct to your door.
Say hello to Lyme Bay scallop diver Kieran Perree
6th May, 2020
Kieran is the skipper of 'Miss Pattie' and owner of GoldenScallops who specialise in hand-dived scallops; a sustainable way to harvest this delicious, sweet seafood. They were awarded the 'Silver Sustainability Award' at Nyetimber Dorset Seafood Festival in 2018.
They are also members of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve and regularly attend the Consultative Committee Meetings, which sets out to achieve the establishment of a multiple-use marine protected area in Lyme Bay where fishing is sustainable and well-managed, important habitats and features are protected and the fishing communities receive benefits from fishing responsibly.
For more details about Lyme Bay Reserve head over to our website www.lymebayreserve.co.uk
Photo by www.jamesbowden.net
New boat day27th April, 2020
Finally the new boat for owners of the Lyme Bay Fish Shack is ready to go to work. KT-SAM E10 will be heading out into Lyme Bay to sustainably fish the finest fish and shellfish these shores have to offer.
Owner Nigel and son Sam are looking forward to the next chapter in their fishing business with Sam joining the new boat full-time. Here's to the future of inshore fishermen in Lyme Bay and keeping the small inshore fleet alive.
What a Brill-iant idea!24th April, 2020
Make Brill the fish of your dish this #FishFriday. Brill is an underrated flatfish related to the highly-prized Turbot, with similarly sweet and firm flesh. You can order your Brill from our local fish mongers Lyme Bay Fish Shack and Beer Fisheries Ltd or order via Call 4 Fish.
Not sure how to cook Brill? Check out these delicious recipes by the Blue Marine Foundation, facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve: https://bit.ly/2Wy62wt
The future is bright23rd April, 2020
The future of the Lyme Bay fishing fleet is looking bright with young Sam from the Lyme Bay Fish Shack at the helm.
Sam was featured in the Sunday Times article about how the new Call 4 Fish initiative is helping to bring local fish and shellfish from port to plate and keeping the local fishing fleet in business during these challenging times.
Fancy some fresh, local, sustainably sourced fish for dinner this week? The Lyme Bay Fish Shack is open Monday to Saturday from 9am. Taking phone orders and offering local delivery to your door.
For more details visit: www.call4fish.com/lymebay
Fishy Factoid21st April, 2020
This smalleyed ray or smalleyed skate is a species of ray in the family Rajidae. It was filmed in the Lyme Bay Reserve by the University of Plymouth Marine Institute as part of the ongoing study of the area.
Did you know that rays give birth to live young called pups? In some species the pups follow their mother after they are born for her protection and guidance. The ray in this video lays eggs which we call mermaids purses. You can find them washed up on beaches along the Dorset and Devon coastline.
For more details about this specie check out: fishingbooker.com/blog/skate-vs-ray/
What fishy facts do you know?
Cooking up a storm
20th April, 2020
Some tasty looking meals cooked up over the weekend by our very own Adam Rees, Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Plymouth and Blue Marine Foundation Research Officer. Adam ordered his fish through Call 4 Fish – a network set-up to deliver to your door the finest fish and shellfish from our shores. So, what's on the menu? Haddock became Asian tempura fish tacos pan fried with asparagus. Hake was used in a Sri Lankan curry and I think you can guess what happened to the fish pie mix.
Thinking of fish this week for your dinner? You will find details of local suppliers who are able to provide fresh fish on the link below. The fish is available for collection and in many cases can be delivered to your door. This is your chance to eat delicious, high-quality fish with the bonus of all the health benefits of eating fish and supporting your local fishing community.
To place your order contact any of the suppliers listed and they will be pleased to assist: www.call4fish.com/lymebay.
Axmouth lobster storage facility17th April, 2020
The lobster storage facility is in full swing as demonstrated by Axmouth fisherman Gavin Ziemann. The store allows the fishermen of Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve to keep catch on shore in temperature controlled filtered water and reduces losses from store pots at sea.
The East Devon Fishermen’s Association, led by assistant harbourmaster and Lyme Bay fisherman Angus Walker, hit on the idea of building this state-of-the-art lobster store and approached the Dorset and East Devon Fishermen’s Local Action Group (FLAG) for a grant. They agreed to fund 60% of the cost and the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) agreed to finance the balance.
For more details about this project visit: https://bit.ly/2LqRurZ
Meet the fishermen of Lyme Bay Reserve
16th April, 2020
Say hello to fisherman Angus Walker. He fishes from Axmouth harbour in East Devon and is also the Harbour Master there.
Angus was recently involved in the build and installation of an on-land lobster storage facility (part-funded by the Dorset & East Devon FLAG and the Blue Marine Foundation) that will enable him and fellow fishermen to land their catches everyday (instead of storing at sea) to help optimise their price.
Angus was also on quayside helping with the planning of the chiller unit and ice machine which fishermen use to store their fresh fish catches before they are taken to market. This facility helps keep their catch fresher for longer and has been used with great success. Describing the chiller unit and ice machine, (part-funded by Blue Marine Foundation), Angus says it is 'the best thing to happen to this port in 100 years'.
Pictured Angus on quayside in Axmouth with the chiller unit behind him.
Photo by James Bowden: www.jamesbowden.net
Beer Fisheries15th April, 2020
Delicious, sustainably caught fish from Lyme Bay Reserve available to buy from Beer Fisheries Ltd in Beer.
Beer Fisheries, home to fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve, are offering a FREE home delivery service from Monday to Friday to the local area with no minimum order. They are also delivering nationwide.
Not sure how to cook what’s on offer at your local fish merchant?
The Blue Marine Foundation have suggested some tasty recipes to try with them:
www.bluemarinefoundation.com/.../Local-Fish-for-Dinner-Recipe...
#makefishthedishoftheday #LocalFishForDinner
14th April, 2020
Thinking of ways to spice up your dinner times this week? Don't want to travel to the shops and want to support local fishermen? Think Lyme Bay Lemon Sole!
Lemon Sole is neither a real sole, nor does it taste of lemon! Part of the flounder family, it's sweet, delicate flesh is suited to being cooked simply, either fried or grilled with a light sauce to accompany it.
You can buy your Lemon Sole along with other sustainably caught fish and shellfish from the Lyme Bay Fish Shack in Axminster or Beer Fisheries Ltd in Beer. Both are offering FREE local delivery.
Think Pollack!9th April, 2020
Thinking of ways to spice up your dinner times this week? Think Pollack! Baked, beer-battered or pan-fried.
Pollack is available for collection in the Lyme Bay area from two main fish merchants and in many cases can be delivered straight to your door.
This is your chance to eat delicious high quality fish with the bonus of all the health benefits of eating fish at the same time supporting small-scale fishermen who use low-impact fishing methods, such as potting and rod & line, in order to ensure that the fish that you eat is as sustainable as possible.
To place your order contact any of the suppliers listed on the Call 4 Fish website and they will be pleased to assist: call4fish.com/lymebay
Sole-itary Confinement8th April, 2020
Morven Robertson, Blue Marine Foundation Senior Projects Manager, takes us on her journey for local fish for dinner, from the Lyme Bay fishermen where she purchases the fish for her delicious dish: https://bit.ly/2WtXFlh
How do you cook your Dover Sole? Do you also use seasonal vegetables? Share your recipes with us #LocalFishForDinner
Enjoy Beer from the comfort of your own home6th April, 2020
Take a look at the Beervillageuk webcam, live from Beer beach in East Devon. Looks like calm conditions for the fishermen of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve, allowing them to head out and catch the low-impact sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood of Lyme Bay.
beervillage.co.uk/whats-on/beer-beach-web-camera
And don't forget, you can buy this fresh fish online to fill your fridges – and help responsible local fishermen – via the outlets listed on Plymouth Trawler Agents’ new website: www.call4fish.com.
Cooking up a storm6th April, 2020
Not sure how to cook the sustainable shellfish and fish for sale at your local fish merchant? The Blue Marine Foundation have cooked up some great sustainable fish and recipe suggestions for you to try: https://bit.ly/3fPPWWi
Do you have any tasty recipes to share? Post in the comments field and we'll share your recipes with our followers. And don't forget you can buy fish online to fill your fridges – and help responsible local fishermen – via the outlets listed on Plymouth Trawler Agents’ new website: www.call4fish.com.
Meet the fishermen of Lyme Bay Reserve1st April, 2020
Say hello to Alan Dowse. He fishes from Axmouth harbour in East Devon from his 18ft boat Good Life'. Alan has been a commercial fisherman since 2007, a couple weeks before the MSC Napoli. disaster – a 62,000 tonne container ship that was deliberately broken up by salvors after she ran into difficulty in the English Channel on 18 January 2007.
Alan mainly fishes for lobsters to supply Reserve Seafood, the low-impact sustainable, premium quality, provenance-assured seafood brand of Lyme Bay. For more details about Reserve Seafood visit: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk/reserve-seafood.
Alan also uses the newly installed lobster storage facility in Axmouth to store his catch when he's able to head out to sea. When asked 'What's your favourite thing about fishing?' he replied; 'The excitement of never knowing what you’re going to catch. Every day is different. If you ever lose that excitement that's the time to pack it all in'. Over the past years Alan has been lucky enough to spot sunfish, dolphins and seals out in Lyme Bay whilst fishing.
Photo by James Bowden: www.jamesbowden.net
Educating the young31st March, 2020
Are you thinking about what on earth you are going to teach your kids about this week?
Why not teach your children about how amazing our ocean is?
Find Blue Marine Foundation ocean activities here and let us know how you get on!
https://bit.ly/2zDZzH2
25th March, 2020
A bottom-up approach to management, developed here in Lyme Bay, which centres around fishermen-led collaboration is being seen in Berwickshire Marine Reserve.
Read the full blog, 'A 'muckle' big lobster gives hope for Berwickshire' here: bit.ly/2Z1tXG7
#LocalFishForDinner in Lyme Bay25th March, 2020
Did you know... consumers nationally and locally can now buy fish online to fill their fridges – and help responsible local fishermen – via the outlets listed on Plymouth Trawler Agents’ new website: www.call4fish.com.
Please specify that you would like to buy Reserve Seafood from the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve to support the inshore fishermen of Lyme Bay.
Not sure how to cook the sustainable shellfish and fish for sale at your local fish merchant? Have a look at some delicious recipes by the Blue Marine Foundation on sustainable fish and recipe suggestions!
Fill your fridge and give the community a boost25th March, 2020
Fill your fridge and give the community a boost by having #LocalFishForDinner Fishermen in the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve sell Reserve Seafood via Plymouth Trawler Agents and other local outlets like these listed below:
Beer Fisheries, Beer, Devon
Phone: 01297 20297
www.beerfisheries.co.uk
Free local delivery available.
Lyme Bay Fish Shack, Kilmington, Devon
Phone: 01297 552176
Free local delivery available.
Just Fish, Seaton, Devon
Phone: 01297 24200
While these markets remain operational the Blue Marine Foundation, facilitators of Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve, are continuing to support Plymouth Trawler Agents and helping to deliver fish to Plymouth market three times a week. They are committed to pursuing other channels to be sure our Reserve Seafood label continues to be available to the public.
In the meantime, members of the public may not know that it is possible to buy fish via local processors who all source from Plymouth, thus boosting demand and getting fishermen better prices. Local delivery available.
It’s time to re-think how we, as consumers, buy fish24th March, 2020
Families country-wide are struggling to find stocked supermarkets or book deliveries, and at the same time Britain’s inshore fishermen face desperate times as coronavirus restrictions close down export markets and the restaurant trade.
There is a solution! Members of the public can continue to buy top quality seafood at the quay - you can purchase up to 25kgs per person - or by ordering online from local outlets.
Find out how to buy direct in Lyme Bay and enjoy #LocalFishForDinner
bit.ly/localfishfordinner
23rd March, 2020
Stuck in isolation or being careful and not coming out? Then why not have your fresh fish delivered to you. Get in touch with the Lyme Bay Fish Shack in Axminster, Devon to place your order and they will deliver direct to you. Free delivery to all local areas. Visit: www.millersfarmshop.co.uk/meats-and-fish
#LocalFishForDinner20th March, 2020
On today's #FishFriday, instead of struggling to find what you want in the supermarket, why not have #LocalFishForDinner?
Sourcing from local merchants means you don't have to visit crowded supermarkets, you get to eat locally caught fresh sustainable fish, and you will support small businesses in this time of uncertainty. What is there to lose? Link find out more: bit.ly/localfishfordinner
Supermarket shelves emptying?19th March, 2020
Concerned about the impact #CONVID19uk is having on the wider community? Find a solution to both by supporting your local fishermen AND stocking up the fridge.
Buy locally landed fish direct at the quayside. Winner, winner, #LocalFishForDinner.
Find out more bit.ly/localfishfordinner
Photo: Fisherman Jim Newton from Beer in East Devon. Beer is one of the four fishing ports which make up the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve.
Fisherman face hard times but the public can help.19th March, 2020
Britain’s inshore fishermen are facing desperate times as demand from export markets and the restaurant trade dries up as a result of coronavirus restrictions.
Read the article by Charles Clover, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Blue Marine Foundation who are the facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve:
www.bluemarinefoundation.com/2020/03/18/fisherman-face-hard-times-but-the-public-can-help/
Buying Fish & Shellfish17th March, 2020
Did you know... members of the public can buy the delicious and sustainable fish and shellfish direct from the boats who fish out in Lyme Bay Reserve? But it's not just here in Lyme Bay, you can do that nationwide to help support your local fishermen.
The fishing ports of West Bay and Lyme Regis in Dorset, and Axmouth and Beer in East Devon are home to a bustling small-scale fishing fleet who regularly head out to catch seasonal species which can be purchased for personal use (up to 25kgs per person).
And don't be afraid the ask the fishermen how to cook and prepare the fish and shellfish as they are the best people in the business to ask and they don't bite, promise.
#BuyLocal
24th February, 2020
Tim Glover, Blue Marine Foundation UK Projects Adviser, discusses the importance of the opening of the Axmouth lobster store, funded by BLUE, to the local fishing community.
https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/2020/02/19/keeping-lobsters-and-the-community-alive/
Education Outreach Programme7th February, 2020
Lyme Bay Reserve fisherman and Education Outreach Ambassador Gavin Ziemann was invited back to St Michael's Primary School in Lyme Regis this week to talk to an aspiring writing group about marine conservation.
Gavin talked about the sustainable fishing practices happening out in Lyme Bay and the measures put in place to ensure a sustainable fishing future.
Head Teacher Nick Kiddle had these lovely words to say about the visit 'I wanted to let you know we had a fantastic visit this morning from Gavin. Our youngest children were engaged for the whole session which he led brilliantly and has really inspired them ready for their writing. Once complete I will forward some of their work and photos. Thank you for helping to organise the visit'.
As you can see from the work the children created they certainly understood the importance of measuring the catch and putting the smaller species back to grow even bigger. If you work in education and would like a FREE school visit about sustainable fishing or marine litter please get in touch with our Education Outreach Coordinator on .
Fish Pie Mix5th February, 2020
The Lyme Bay Fish Shack has lots of beautiful fresh fish on offer, many of which has been caught sustainably within Lyme Bay Reserve. For details about how this fish and shellfish is caught dive over to our website: www.lymebayreserve.co.uk.
And if you fancy fish pie this week get in touch with The Lyme Bay Fish Shack based at Millers Farm Shop in Axminster: www.millersfarmshop.co.uk/meats-and-fish.
Photo by Lyme Bay Fish Shack.
Hand-dived Scallops3rd February, 2020
Delicious, hand-dived scallops collected from within Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve and landed by the following fishermen aboard their trusty boats;
'JBP' skippered by John Shuker
'Patricia Anne' skippered by Paul Maas
'Miss Pattie' skippered by Kieran Perree
How would you cook yours?
Beer Webcam30th January, 2020
Take a sneak peak at the weather conditions in Beer via the Beer Sailing Club webcam. It's looking a bit damp out there today for the fishermen of Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve.
It's all systems go!
24th January, 2020
The lobster storage facility on Axmouth harbour is now complete. This fishermen-led initiative has built an on-land storage facility that will enable them to land their catches everyday (instead of storing at sea) and take to market to optimise their price.
The lobster storage facility has been built bespoke by the East Devon Fishermen's Association. The facility is ground level with a living roof and is approximately 4.5m long by 3m wide and goes underground up to 3.25m. It contains 140 pods and includes a water chilling and filtration system, which allows approx. 1,000 kilos of crabs and lobsters to be stored for up to 3 months.
The project received Dorset & East Devon FLAG (Fisheries Local Action Group) support to cover 60% of the cost with the Blue Marine Foundation (facilitators of the Lyme Bay Fisheries and Conservation Reserve) funding the remaining 40%.
Get involved and get creative!23rd January, 2020
This great film 'Fishermen's Kisses' by Cornish Plastic Pollution Coalition aims to engage with fishermen to help reduce one of the most pervasive forms of marine litter washing up on our beaches. There are some great prizes for the best ideas, designs or images, so get involved with your bright ideas.
Fin-tastic idea!22nd January, 2020
Beer Fisheries have introduced their new loyalty card. Drop by and get yours to get 20% off with every 10th stamp. Perfectly placed on Sea Hill in Beer, a great place for fresh crab straight off the beach.
Wet and windy conditions in Lyme Regis this week16th January, 2020
We don't think any of our fishermen ventured out in those conditions but with the weather turning for the better this weekend be set for fresh fish and shellfish hitting the ports of West Bay, Lyme Regis, Axmouth and Beer.
Photos by Love Lyme Regis: lovelymeregis.co.uk