Arctic Seafarm stocks first 86,000 salmon smolt at Nesna land-based facility
On 21 October 2026, Arctic Seafarm stocked the first 86,000 salmon smolt at its land-based facility in Nesna, Nordland County, Norway, marking the start of fish production at the site.
Arctic Seafarm on 21 October 2026 (Wednesday) stocked 86,000 salmon smolt at its land-based facility in Nesna, Nordland County, Norway, as planned. This is the facility's first smolt stocking, marking the start of fish production and a milestone in the process of building a new aquaculture company in the Helgeland region.
The stocking took place after the company took over the first section of the facility from the contractor. The delivery scope included the smolt rearing department, the water intake system and related auxiliary facilities.
"Getting the first fish into the facility is an important day for Arctic Seafarm and for everyone who has contributed to bringing the project to this point. We are now entering a new phase where good operations, fish welfare and a controlled ramp-up in capacity will be central," Arctic Seafarm CEO Magnus Kibsgaard said in a press release.
Before the facility could receive fish, the company carried out extensive work in planning, design, construction, procurement, installation, testing and operational preparation. At the same time, Arctic Seafarm has recruited and trained staff, and the organisation is now ready to enter the operational phase.
"Behind this milestone lies a long and substantial effort. I would especially like to mention the cooperation between our employees, Totalbetong, Eyvi and the many suppliers and subcontractors, all working towards a common goal. It is this cooperation that has made us ready to receive the first fish," Kibsgaard said.
Arctic Seafarm plans to gradually increase production over the coming year while continuing to complete the rest of the facility. "We have reached an important milestone and look forward to further developing operations as the remaining facilities are completed. The task ahead is to consolidate what has been done and ensure a good start to production," Kibsgaard said.
The realisation of the facility rests on the long-term commitment of the company's owners and financing partners. Arctic Seafarm particularly mentions DNB and Eksfin, as well as the company's strategic partner Kvarøy Fiskeoppdrett. "This is an important industrial development for Helgeland. The trust and support from our owners and from DNB and Eksfin have been crucial to realising the project. We want to thank them for their contribution in making this possible," Kibsgaard said.