After a "depressed" few years, the flatfishery is on an upward cycle, Port Chalmers Fishing Co-operative president Ant Smith says.
The Otago Harbour fleet fish for lemon sole and flounder off the coast of Otago from Port Chalmers to the Catlins. About 11 boats fish out of Port Chalmers while others in the co-operative are based in Bluff.
"After a reasonably disastrous crayfish season, it looks like it is going to be a good season," Mr Smith said.
The fishery was cyclical and recent catches indicated the fishery was on an upward cycle at last. The quality and quantity of the fish caught in recent times had been good.
"The size is better than average as there is plenty of feed for them - a bit of krill around."
As a result, fishermen were able to spend more on upkeep for their boats, which in turn benefitted boat-builders, engineers and associated industries, he said.
The upward swing was also encouraging more interest among young people in fishing, with at least two boats hiring young hands - the first time for many years, Mr Smith said.
It would also keep the local fish factory busy and could lead to more employment opportunities.
