Shock in Hakodate as Opening Squid Auction Canceled Due to Poor Catches

Jun 02, 2025 | News On Japan

HOKKAIDO, Jun 02, 2025 (News On Japan) - In southern Hokkaido, the opening of the surume squid season brought an unprecedented shock as the first auction in Hakodate was canceled due to virtually no catch, leaving local stakeholders deeply unsettled.

The fishing season for surume squid, also known as Japanese flying squid, officially began on June 1st, with 11 vessels setting out from Hakodate. However, the catch was so poor that there was nothing to unload, forcing the fishing fleet to return empty-handed.

As a result, the first auction scheduled for June 2nd at the Hakodate market was called off. Market officials confirmed this was the first time in history that an auction had been canceled due to such poor fishing conditions.

"This is nothing short of disappointing. We can only hope squid will start appearing in time to meet demand, especially with tourist season approaching," said Minoya, an executive at Hakodate Fish Market.

The bleak outlook continued on June 2nd, with all squid-fishing vessels suspending operations in response to the dismal haul.

In fiscal 2024, Hakodate's surume squid haul is expected to total just 400 tons, the second-lowest volume ever recorded following the record low in fiscal 2023.

Prices, however, have surged. At 1,268 yen per kilogram, squid now cost nearly four times as much as they did a decade ago.

Source: 北海道ニュースUHB

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