Experimental fishing with an "umbrella-and-stones" system to reduce interactions of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) and seabirds with bottom-set longlines for Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) in the Southwest Atlantic

Authors
Goetz, S., Laporta, M., Portela, J.M., Santos, M.B., Pierce, G.J.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
ICES Journal of Marine Science
Volume (Issue #)
68(1)
Page #s
228-238
Contact information
Sabine Goetz: sabine.goetz@vi.ieo.es
Summary

The Patagonian toothfish longline fishery in the Southwest Atlantic suffers from depredation of fish by sperm whales and high bycatch rates of seabirds. This study assessed depredation and seabird bycatch using a modified longline with an "umbrella" net sleeve system with stones for faster sinking. The "umbrella-and-stones" system was effective for preventing bycatch and appeared to restrict depredation, but catches were significantly reduced.