Two bycatch reduction devices (BRD), the Florida fisheye (FFE) and large-mesh extended-mesh funnel (EMF) were tested in roller-frame trawls to determine their effectiveness in reducing bycatch. Tests were conducted at two locations (Tarpon Springs and Biscayne Bay, FL) using a paired trawl design with the BRD equipped net deployed off one side and the control net off the other side. The FFE did not significantly reduce overall finfish bycatch but did retain shrimp at both locations. At Tarpon Springs, the EMF reduced bycatch significantly and shrimp loss was low, while at Biscayne Bay, bycatch and shrimp loss were both significantly reduced. A simulator cone was also tested with both BRD's at Tarpon Springs and resulted in significant bycatch reduction but also significant shirmp loss.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
Fisheries Research
Volume (Issue #)
108
Page #s
248-257
Contact information
theresa.bert@myfwc.com
Summary
Field Studies
Field Study 538
Study Type
Field study in the wild
Location
Florida
Target catch
Shrimp
Effect on bycatch species
Florida fisheye bycatch reduction device (BRD) did not significantly reduce finfish bycatch. The large-mesh extended-mesh funnel BRD significantly reduced bycatch. The simulator cone (used with both BRD's) significantly reduced bycatch.
Effect on target catch
Florida fisheye BRD retained shrimp. The large-mesh extended-mesh funnel BRD had low shrimp loss at Tarpon Springs but at Biscayne Bay shrimp loss was significant. The simulator cone (used with both BRD's) resulted in significant shrimp loss.
Bycatch species
Reduction technique
Fishing Gear