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FISHERIES. 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 



Supply of Fish in Scotland — Herring-fishery — Highlanders 

 coming to Herring-fishing — Fishermen of east coast — Dif- 

 ference of Language in Nairn — Departure of Herring-boats ; 

 dangers to •which they are exposed — Loss of Boats and lives 

 — Fishing in good weather — Loch fishing — Fishing Sta- 

 tions on west coast — Fishing for Haddocks, &c. — State of Bri- 

 tish Sea-fisheries. 



The northern seas and bays of Scotland swarm 

 with fish to an ahnost unequalled extent ; and 

 although in many situations and districts consider- 

 able use is made of this bountiful provision of 

 nature, it cannot be doubted that much greater 

 benefit might be obtained fi-om it. 



As far as relates to commercial speculation the 

 herring holds the first place, or nearly so. The 

 fishermen on this eastern coast go out about the 

 middle of July ; previous to which they have been 

 for some weeks employed in preparing their boats, 

 overhauling their tackle, and engaging extra hands, 

 generally Highlanders, who come down to the coast 

 at this season in order to hire themselves to the 



