Exploratory turbot fishery underway in high Arctic

The Arctic Fishery Alliance has a new locally owned vessel in the high Arctic at the moment looking into the possibility of a commercial fishery there.

The ship, the Atlantic Prospect, is doing exploratory turbot fishing near Grise Fiord. The Alliance is made up of the hunters and trappers organizations in Qikiqtarjuaq, Grise Fiord, Arctic Bay and Resolute. 

"I can't speak for other communities but a lot of work has been done to get to where we are right now," said Marty Kuluguqtuq, secretary-treasurer of the Grise Fiord Iviq Hunters and Trappers Association. "To physically see a boat which is 25 per cent owned by Grise Fiord is something that the community is very proud of."

Kuluguqtuq says the community is excited at the prospect of a commercial fishery. "It's an excellent experience for the community, it's an excellent opportunity as an alternative for employment as well," he said.

The expedition has gotten off to a slow start, but Kuluguqtuq says the fishery has potential.

The vessel is headed to Qikiqtarjuaq next week to do more exploratory fishing there.