Discover the Disco Scallops Story
“It was unequivocal - there and then - that traps with lights inside caught scallops, and traps without lights didn't catch scallops.”
The discovery of potting for scallops was an accident: Fisheries scientists from Fishtek Marine in Devon were experimenting with new ways to increase catches of crab and lobster and trialled adding lights to pots. They shared these lights with a fisherman down in Cornwall who reported that whilst the lights had no impact on the number of crab and lobster, he was seeing large numbers of scallops in the trap.
Scallop fishing is dominated by dredging - a more destructive fishing method which has faced growing concern for the collateral damage that it causes to the seabed and the animals that live there. This new method not only limits damage to the seafloor, but gives small-scale crab and lobster fishermen the opportunity to diversify and increase the value of their fishing trips by catching scallops as well.
It is a win-win.
In the years since the discovery, fisheries scientists have been honing the method alongside rigorous testing, research and development. Everything from the most effective trap design, light colour, and fishing locations have been tested. Trials in the Northeast of England are not only helping fishermen but providing insights on the most effective scallop potting methods. Alongside this R&D, environmental research is being undertaken to understand more about the sustainability and impact of scallop potting.
The tech is now ready to be shared with the wider world. We’re working with fishermen and restaurants to secure a year-round sale of Disco Scallops™, and generating ongoing demand from consumers keen to try them. We’re inviting commercial fishermen from across the UK to purchase potting equipment from Fishtek and sell their Disco Scallops™ through us.
The Disco Scallops Team
Lee Cash
A prominent restaurateur with a history influencing the British pub scene, Lee Cash is spearheading the Disco Scallop project. Known for founding Peach Pubs, a celebrated group of over 20 Gastro Pubs across England, Lee is well-connected with a network of chefs and owners across the industry. He's passionate about getting pot-caught scallops on the plates of conscious consumers.
Dr. Rob Enever
As well as over two decades working in fisheries science, Rob is the Fishtek Marine scientist who made the Disco Scallop discovery.
Fishtek Marine is the engineering consultancy behind the patented ScallopEye technology, specialising in innovative engineering solutions that solve a range of commercial fishing problems.
Rachel Walker
Rachel is a communications consultant with a passion for revolutionising the way we enjoy seafood. From championing lesser-known British species to influencing global tuna fishing policies, she’s dedicated to waving the flag for sustainable, responsible UK seafood. As a disco lover, this project was right up her street and she can't wait to see pot-caught Disco Scallops on menus across the country!
