Purse seine fishing has been a cornerstone of the global fishing industry for centuries, providing an effective means of catching large schools of fish. At the heart of this method lies the indispensable tool: the purse seine net. In this comprehensive exploration, we will explore the intricacies of purse seine nets, unravelling their design, construction, and applications in the world of modern fisheries.
Nowadays, it must be pointed out that there are several fishery practices, including fishing purse seine practices, that are being actively implemented by the industry, and to that end, one must be certain about the methodologies that would yield the best results in each case. Moreover, several government policies are being implemented as well that can help with easier setting up and running of a successful fisheries business in this day and age.
Understanding Purse Seine Fishing
Fishing purse seine is a widely employed method that involves encircling a school of fish with a large net called a purse seine. The technique is highly efficient for capturing pelagic species like tuna, herring, and mackerel, which tend to school near the water’s surface or mid-level. The success of purse seine fishing lies in the adaptability and functionality of the purse seine net.
Purse Seine Net Design
The design of a fishing purse seine net is a crucial factor in determining its effectiveness in capturing fish. Typically, these nets are large, cylindrical in shape, and equipped with floats along the top edge to keep them afloat. The bottom edge, on the other hand, features lead weights to ensure the net sinks and forms a complete barrier beneath the water’s surface.
The purse seine net is usually made from nylon or HDPE, a durable and flexible material that allows for easy handling and deployment. The mesh size of the net is carefully calibrated to strike a balance between capturing the desired fish species while allowing smaller, non-target fish to escape. The strength and resilience of the net are critical, especially when dealing with large and powerful fish.
Construction of Purse Seine Nets
Constructing a purse seine net involves a meticulous process to ensure its functionality and durability. The net is typically divided into three main sections: the bunt, wings, and purse line.
Bunt: The central part of the net is called the bunt, which forms a large circle when fully deployed. The bunt is the primary area where the fish are enclosed, and its size can be adjusted based on the target species and fishing conditions. The skiff captain should be aware of how the species can be located efficiently while having the proper capturing plans in place as well.
Wings: Extending from each side of the bunt are the wings, which play a crucial role in encircling the fish. The length and depth of the wings are designed to herd the fish towards the bunt effectively.
Purse Line: The bottom of the net is secured by the purse line, which is threaded through rings attached to the net. As the purse line is drawn, the bottom of the net is closed, creating a “purse” or bag-like structure that entraps the fish.
Applications of Purse Seine Fishing
Purse seine fishing has a broad range of applications, making it one of the most versatile methods in the fishing industry.
Tuna Fishing: Purse seine nets are extensively used in tuna fishing, particularly for species like skipjack and yellowfin tuna. The ability to encircle large schools of tuna makes purse seine fishing a cost-effective and efficient method for meeting the global demand for tuna products.
Pelagic Species: Beyond tuna, purse seine fishing is employed for various pelagic species such as herring, mackerel, and anchovies. The adaptability of purse seine nets makes them suitable for different fishing conditions and target species.
Sustainable Practices: Recently, the development of sustainable fishing practices are in focus. Purse seine fishing can be employed in a more environmentally friendly manner, such as using Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) to reduce bycatch and target specific species.
Reducing Bycatch: By carefully designing the purse seine net with the appropriate mesh size and using advanced technologies, the fishing industry aims to minimize bycatch – the unintentional capture of non-target species. This contributes to the overall sustainability of purse seine fishing. Against this backdrop, several regulations are being implemented as well that can have an effect on the design of the nets to ensure sustainability in the entire ecosystem.
Summary:
Understanding purse seine nets goes beyond their role in capturing fish; it involves appreciating the careful design, construction, and versatile applications that make them a cornerstone of modern fisheries. The art and science of fishing purse seine continues to evolve, driven by a commitment to sustainability and responsible fishing practices. As we navigate the complexities of our marine ecosystems, purse seine nets stand as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of the fishing industry in meeting the demands of a growing global population.
