Trap Berth

May 16 - June 30

Trap Berth Season belongs neither to spring nor to summer and runs May 16 through to June 30. Historically, markers for cod trap fishing berths were dropped on June 1st at 12:00 pm each year. If there was ever a dispute about trap berth locations, lots were drawn by the local Justice of the Peace for the preferred berth locations.

Though sometimes tense, these draws never overshadowed the overall feeling of celebration and hope for a successful fishing season. The short trap berth season is characterized by long, warm days dotted with blooming wildflowers on land and passing icebergs and whales offshore. Days are wiled away with long hikes, coastal bonfires or boil-ups, and ample stargazing when the sun finally dips under the horizon. 

The Atlantic Ocean continues to provide, with fresh halibut—fished from deeper waters—and sea vegetables.

Farmers begin feeding up their piglets and preparing the soil in their gardens, which they enrich naturally with seaweed, tiny silver fish called capelin and crushed shells. Now is the time to set potatoes in their rows. Tilting’s sheep farmers prepare to take ewes and their offspring out on a small boat to nearby Pigeon and Little Fogo Islands, to graze in peace until fall.

Along the shoreline, foragers harvest succulent oyster leaf, briny sea rocket, and parsley-like lovage, as well as stinging nettle, known for its detoxifying properties.