Pot Luck: Fishing with Traditional Withy Pots

My research for my master's degree investigates the ecological impact of traditional withy pots – fishing pots (to catch crab and lobster) that are made from willow. If you’re a Poldark fan, or you regularly find yourself at seaside festivals (niche, but they’re out there) you’ve probably seen a withy pot before. Steeped in South-West England tradition, withy pots are a unique blend of functionality and artistry with a history spanning across thousands of years.

Fishing is an important industry throughout the world, with fisheries indirectly and directly employing over 200 million people. It is a way of life, deeply ingrained in multiple cultures and dating back to what scientists believe to be at least the upper palaeolithic period (about 40,000 years ago!) Back then fishing was sustainable; if here we define sustainable as catching only what you and your community need. Clearly the fishing gear that was used back then such as hooks and traps proved successful, as many are still used today!

The art of weaving withy fishing pots dates back centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in rural communities where natural resources were abundant and fishing villages often grew their own designated patch of willow (the remnants of which can still be seen to this day in south Devon) for the purposes of making their pots. Each pot was a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of generations past, as skills and techniques were handed down through generations. The style and design of each pot was kept a closely guarded secret from family to family. Fishers honed their skills in crafting these pots to catch predominantly lobsters and crab, although early examples discovered near Bristol by archaeologists suggest fish were also traditionally targeted. Sadly today there are only 16 registered people left with the skills to make these pots and the craft is included on the Red List for Endangered Crafts.

My first attempt at making a traditional withy pot.. A bit more practice is clearly needed.

Unlike modern nets or lines which are often made from plastic composites, withy pots blend into the natural environment and are fully organic, meaning they break down in the seawater if lost at sea, minimising their impact on marine ecosystems. It is therefore hypothesised that fishing with withy pots promotes sustainability by minimising bycatch (the catching and discarding of none target species) and reducing the environmental impact often associated with modern-day fishing methods, such as ghost fishing (gear that’s been lost at sea and continues to trap organisms) and microplastic release from the breakdown of equipment.

While modern methods have brought about innovative techniques and technology to maximise catch, there’s something both romantic and fascinating about the potential for some modern-day fishers to return to using homemade withy pots and traps to lower the environmental cost. It’s worth noting at this point that static fishing gear (such as pots) is one of the least environmentally damaging forms of fishing anyway, when compared to mobile gears like trawling and netting.

Plastic parlour pots in the sunshine at Torquay Harbour, Devon

In the Southwest, some fishers have already made the switch back to withy pots to cut their environmental impact. One fisherman based in the Isles of Scilly has committed to only using fully organic materials to catch lobster and crab that he sells around the island’s seafood restaurants. With evidence that some fishers are voluntarily making the switch back to withy; The University of Plymouth and Isles of Scilly IFCA (Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authority) want to further the scientific fisheries field by researching whether fishing with withy pots is truly better for the environment, as hypothesised. If this proves to be the case then with science behind us, we can educate, spread awareness and work with fishers to help encourage the take up of this endangered traditional craft across more inshore fishing operations. By embracing these traditional techniques, fishers can play a vital role in preserving aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

Fishing with withy pots is not just about the catch; it's about fostering a relationship with the environment and honouring traditions passed down through generations. It's a practice that encourages mindfulness and respect for nature's rhythms. I believe this holistic view is crucial to promoting the use of withy pots. In a world driven by technological advancements, there's something profoundly grounding about returning to this traditional craft. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest methods are the most profound.

So there we have it! I will be camping on St Agnes (Isles of Scilly) for 3 whole months to carry out this research as part of an inspiring team. I can’t wait to get started!

#withypots