A review of potential techniques to reduce the environmental impact of demersal trawls

Concern over the possible effects of trawls on the seabed has existed almost as long as the fishing method itself, with early concerns being voiced by fishermen themselves as far back as the 14th century. With the advance in technological developments of trawling gears (i.e. weight and size), particularly over the latter part of this century, the increase in the number of fishing vessels, engine power etc., these concerns are increasingly gaining international public and political importance. This review is divided into two sections. Section 1 gives an overview of the physical and biological effects of bottom trawling and section 2 gives an overview of potential gear modifications.

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10793/800

Citation

Linnane, A., Ball, B., Munday, B., van Marlen, B., Bergman, M. & Fonteyne, R., “A review of potential techniques to reduce the environmental impact of demersal trawls”, Irish Fisheries Investigations No. 7, Marine Institute 2000