The efficacy of illumination to reduce bycatch of eulachon and groundfishes before trawl capture in the eastern North Pacific ocean shrimp fishery

Authors
Lomeli, M. J., Groth, S. D., Blume, M. T., Herrmann, B., and W.W. Wakefield
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences
Volume (Issue #)
77(1)
Page #s
44-54
Contact information
Mark J.M. Lomeli
1-541-867-0544
mlomeli@psmfc.org
Summary

This study examined the extent that eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus) and groundfishes escape trawls in response to artificial illumination. Using a double-rigged trawler, catch efficiencies were compared for ocean shrimp, eulachon, and groundfishes between an unilluminated trawl and a trawl illuminated with five green LEDs along its fishing line. Results showed a significant reduction in the bycatch of eulachon and yellowtail rockfish (Sebastes flavidus) in the presence of illumination. However, the illuminated trawl caught similarly or significantly more rockfish (Sebastes spp.) and flatfish than the unilluminated trawl.