Significant conservation benefits obtained from the use of a new fishing gear in the Chilean Patagonian toothfish fishery

Authors
Moreno, C.A., Castro, R., Mújica, L.J., and Reyes, P.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
CCAMLR Science
Volume (Issue #)
15
Page #s
79-91
Contact information
C. Moreno: cmoreno@uach.cl
Summary

A modified longline system with a net sleeve and weight on the secondary vertical line was tested in the Chilean Patagonian toothfish fishery. A net sleeve that deploys to cover the fish/hook when hauled and a weight were attached to the vertical hook line. The net sleeve significantly reduced depredation of fish by killer whales (Orcinus orca) and sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus). The weighted line also was able to reduce seabird bycatch deaths to zero.