Midwater Troll (Groundfish)

Midwater Troll (Groundfish) fishing gear type refers to a method of commercial fishing that involves deploying a specialized setup in designated areas, particularly the Non-Trawl Rockfish Conservation Area from January 2023 onwards. This method employs a horizontally suspended monofilament mainline that is connected to a troll wire. The troll wire is then towed behind a vessel that is in motion.

  1. Key regulations and specifications associated with this gear type include:
    Bottom Weight Distance: The setup must maintain a minimum distance of 50 feet between the bottom weight and the point where the troll wire connects to the horizontal mainline. This ensures that the fishing gear remains suspended above the ocean floor.
  2. Single Mainline: Only one mainline is permitted to be used at any given time. This prevents excessive use of fishing gear and promotes responsible fishing practices.
  3. Hook Limit: The gear is subject to a maximum hook limit of 500 hooks actively deployed in the water simultaneously. Additionally, the vessel is allowed to carry no more than 25 extra hooks onboard for potential use. These hooks must be spaced apart using visible markers, such as floats, line wraps, or colored lines splices.
  4. Marker Spacing: Hooks must be spaced apart by visible markers, and no more than 25 hooks should be positioned between each marker. The mainline is allowed to have a maximum of 20 such markers, which helps regulate the distribution of hooks and prevents overcrowding.

Overall, the Midwater Troll (Groundfish) fishing gear type is a regulated method that combines a horizontally suspended monofilament mainline, troll wire, and controlled hook deployment to target specific species in designated areas. It aims to balance fishing efficiency with responsible resource management to ensure sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of fish populations.

*Please note, this definition is based on industry knowledge and is intended to provide a general understanding of the Midwater Troll for Groundfish configuration's sustainable attributes. For more comprehensive and up-to-date information, readers are advised to refer to appropriate regulatory agencies and sources. Agencies such as the Pacific States Fisheries Management Council, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries), and similar bodies may offer official regulations, guidelines, and updates related to this gear type and fishing practices.

It's recommended that interested parties consult these authoritative sources for the most accurate and current details. The description provided herein reflects key aspects of the gear type, considering information similar to that found in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's User Guide for Electronic Fish Ticket Submission.