Pelagic Deepset Longline
A Pelagic Deepset Longline is a specialized fishing gear used for capturing pelagic fish species that inhabit deeper oceanic waters. This method involves a long and heavy horizontal line that is set deep in the water column to target species such as tuna and swordfish. Here is a detailed definition of this fishing gear:
Key Features and Components:
- Mainline: The mainline is a durable and lengthy fishing line, typically made of monofilament or multifilament materials. It serves as the primary backbone of the gear.
- Buoys and Floats: Pelagic deepset longlines incorporate buoys or floats at the surface end of the mainline. These buoyant devices help keep the mainline afloat and visible on the water's surface.
- Weights: To sink the longline deep into the water, weights, often referred to as "deepset weights," are attached at regular intervals along the mainline. These weights ensure that the longline reaches the desired depth in the ocean.
- Hooks: Various baited hooks are attached to the mainline, evenly spaced apart. These hooks are designed to capture the target pelagic species as they take the bait.
- Baits: Baits such as squid, fish, or other natural or artificial lures are placed on the hooks to attract and entice the pelagic fish to bite.
Operation:
- Setting: The longline is deployed from a fishing vessel into the open ocean. The weights on the line cause it to sink to the desired depth, which can range from tens to hundreds of meters, depending on the target species and fishing location.
- Soaking: Once set to the appropriate depth, the longline is left to soak for a specified period, allowing the baited hooks to attract and capture pelagic fish that swim by.
- Retrieval: After the soaking period, the longline is retrieved by winding it back onto the fishing vessel. The captured fish are removed from the hooks as the line is retrieved.
Purpose:
Pelagic deepset longlines are employed to target pelagic species that inhabit deeper waters, such as swordfish and tuna. This method is chosen because it allows for selective fishing of these species while minimizing bycatch of non-target species. It is a preferred choice for sustainable and responsible fishing practices in deep-sea environments.
The Pelagic Deepset Longline is a specialized fishing gear that consists of a longline with hooks and weights, designed for deep-sea fishing of pelagic species. It is an effective and selective method for capturing target species while minimizing the impact on the broader marine ecosystem.