Unloading frozen squid at the Almirante Storni Dock in Puerto Madryn, Chubut. Photo: courtesy of APPM

The First Jigger Vessels Arrive at Patagonian Ports with Promising Squid Catches

ARGENTINA
Friday, January 17, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

The Argentine-flagged jigger vessel Lu Quin Yuan Yu 277 arrived at Puerto Deseado in the early hours of January 16, carrying more than 600 tons of squid in S and SS sizes after completing a 15-day fishing trip. This arrival marks the beginning of what is expected to be an intense squid fishing season, given the notable abundance reported by the jigger fleet.

Start of Arrivals at Puerto Deseado

The Lu Quin Yuan Yu 277, operated by Pesquera Latina, a company with Chinese capital, kicks off the much-anticipated cycle of arrivals for jigger vessels. According to Mar y Pesca Noticias Patagónicas, the Lu Quin 286, also operated by Pesquera Latina, is expected to dock at the port tomorrow. Additionally, on Sunday, the Vieirasa Dieciocho, belonging to Vieira Argentina, will join the list of vessels arriving at Puerto Deseado.

New Arrivals and Expectations for the Coming Days

In the coming week, an increase in jigger vessel arrivals is expected, further energizing fishing activity and providing a significant boost to the local economy.

However, despite this promising outlook, concerns remain in the sector due to the recent resignations of Carolina González and Pablo Martín, two key executives with extensive experience in port operations. Industry stakeholders have called for reducing internal tensions to foster stability and ensure the success of the new fishing season.

Unloading frozen squid in Puerto Madryn (Chubut) -->

Puerto Madryn Welcomes Its First Jigger Vessel

In the early hours of January 16, the Hai de Li 701, a jigger vessel with a hold capacity of 1,093 cubic meters, arrived at the port of Puerto Madryn with its holds fully loaded with Illex argentinus squid. This shipment, exceeding 650 tons, represents an extraordinary start to the current fishing season.

Jigger's unloading in Puerto Madryn, Chubut. Photo: courtesy of Revista Puerto

An Exceptional Start to the Season

Initial records from the 2025 season highlight exceptional performance. The Argentine jigger fleet is operating with daily catches exceeding 40 tons, while international markets are quickly absorbing all available supply.

As of now, several jigger vessels have filled their holds and are heading to Patagonian ports, consolidating what appears to be an unprecedented start to the fishing season in recent Argentine history.

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