What methods can reduce bycatch in commercial fishing?

Bycatch can be reduced through gear modification, spatial and temporal closures, and bycatch quotas.

Bycatch, the unintentional capture of non-target species during commercial fishing, is a significant environmental issue. It not only threatens biodiversity but also undermines the sustainability of fisheries. However, several methods can be employed to reduce bycatch.

One of the most effective methods is gear modification. This involves altering the design of fishing gear to allow non-target species to escape. For example, Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) are used in trawl nets to allow captured sea turtles to escape, while maintaining the catch of target species. Similarly, circle hooks can be used in longline fishing to reduce the bycatch of sea turtles and seabirds, as these hooks are less likely to be swallowed by non-target species. Another gear modification is the use of acoustic 'pingers' on gillnets, which emit sounds that deter marine mammals, reducing their likelihood of entanglement.

Spatial and temporal closures are another effective method. This involves closing certain areas or times to fishing, typically those where bycatch species are known to congregate or breed. For example, seasonal closures might be implemented during the breeding season of a vulnerable species to protect them from accidental capture. Similarly, areas known to be important habitats for non-target species can be closed to fishing. This method requires good scientific understanding of the species involved and careful monitoring to ensure compliance.

Bycatch quotas can also be used to reduce bycatch. This involves setting a limit on the amount of bycatch that can be caught. Once this limit is reached, the fishery must close for the rest of the season. This provides a strong incentive for fishers to avoid bycatch, as exceeding the quota can result in lost fishing opportunities. However, this method requires robust monitoring and enforcement to be effective.

In addition to these methods, education and training for fishers can also play a crucial role in reducing bycatch. By understanding the impact of bycatch and the techniques to avoid it, fishers can make more sustainable choices. This, combined with the methods mentioned above, can significantly reduce the impact of bycatch on our oceans.