Bodenschleppnetze

Bodenschleppnetze, also known as bottom trawls, are fishing gear consisting of a large net bag dragged along the seabed. This method is employed across various fisheries worldwide to catch demersal fish and shellfish that live on or near the ocean floor. The net is typically weighted and kept open by doors, which spread the net wide as it is pulled by a fishing vessel. As the trawl moves, it scoops up everything in its path, including target species, non-target species (bycatch), and benthic organisms.

The effectiveness of bottom trawling in terms of catch volume is undeniable, making it an economically important fishing method for many communities. However, it is also a highly controversial practice due to its significant environmental impacts. The dragging of heavy nets and otter boards across the seafloor can cause considerable damage to marine habitats, particularly sensitive ecosystems like coral reefs and seagrass beds. This physical disturbance can lead to habitat destruction, altered seafloor structure, and a reduction in biodiversity. Furthermore, bottom trawling is associated with high rates of bycatch, meaning a substantial proportion of the catch consists of non-target species, including juvenile fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, and seabirds, many of which are discarded and do not survive. Efforts to mitigate these impacts include the development of selective fishing gear, modifications to trawling practices, and the establishment of marine protected areas where bottom trawling is prohibited.