What is longline fishing?

What is longline fishing?

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Introduction

Longline fishing is a fishing technique that involves the use of a long line with multiple baited hooks. This method is commonly used for commercial fishing to target various species, including tuna, swordfish, and halibut. The longline is deployed into the water, either horizontally or vertically, and left to soak for a period of time before being retrieved. This article will delve deeper into the process of longline fishing, its impact on marine ecosystems, and its regulation.

The Process of Longline Fishing

Setting the Longline: Longline fishing begins with the setting of the longline. The mainline, which can stretch for several miles, is typically made of a strong, durable material such as monofilament or braided line. At regular intervals, shorter lines called gangions are attached to the mainline. These gangions are equipped with baited hooks, which can vary in number depending on the target species and fishing regulations.

Soaking Period: Once the longline is set, it is left in the water for a specific period of time, known as the soaking period. This can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the fishing method and target species. During this time, the baited hooks attract the desired fish, which become hooked when they bite the bait.

Retrieval: After the soaking period, the longline is retrieved by hauling it back onto the fishing vessel. This can be a labor-intensive process, especially if the longline is several miles long. As the longline is retrieved, the caught fish are removed from the hooks and stored on board the vessel.

Impact on Marine Ecosystems

While longline fishing is an efficient method for catching large quantities of fish, it can have significant impacts on marine ecosystems. One of the main concerns is bycatch, which refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species. Due to the indiscriminate nature of longline fishing, many species, including sharks, sea turtles, and seabirds, can become entangled or hooked on the lines. This can result in injury or death for these non-target species, contributing to biodiversity loss and disrupting the balance of marine ecosystems.

Longline fishing can also lead to overfishing of target species if not properly regulated. The large number of hooks deployed by longline vessels increases the likelihood of catching large quantities of fish, potentially depleting populations and compromising the sustainability of fisheries. It is crucial to implement effective management measures, such as fishing quotas and seasonal closures, to ensure the long-term viability of fish stocks.

Regulation of Longline Fishing

To mitigate the negative impacts of longline fishing, various regulations and conservation measures have been implemented globally. These include:

Minimum Size Limits: Many countries have established minimum size limits for target species to protect juvenile fish and allow them to reach reproductive maturity before being harvested.

Bycatch Reduction Devices: Bycatch reduction devices, such as circle hooks and bird-scaring lines, are designed to minimize the capture of non-target species. These devices help reduce the risk of entanglement or hooking, improving the overall sustainability of longline fishing.

Marine Protected Areas: The establishment of marine protected areas can help safeguard critical habitats and protect vulnerable species from the impacts of longline fishing. These protected areas serve as refuges where fish populations can thrive and recover.

Conclusion

Longline fishing is a widely used commercial fishing technique that involves the deployment of a long line with multiple baited hooks. While it can be an efficient method for catching target species, it also poses significant challenges for marine ecosystems. Bycatch and overfishing are major concerns associated with longline fishing, highlighting the importance of effective regulation and conservation measures. It is crucial to strike a balance between meeting the demand for seafood and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our oceans.

References

– Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: www.fao.org
– National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: www.noaa.gov
– World Wildlife Fund: www.worldwildlife.org