Driftnets

Driftnets are large fishing nets that are left to drift freely in the ocean, either anchored to the seabed or drifting with the currents. They are designed to catch fish by entangling them as they swim into the net. These nets can be extremely long, sometimes stretching for miles.

The fishing method using driftnets has been employed for centuries, with various designs and sizes adapted to different fishing conditions and target species. Historically, driftnets have been used in both small-scale and large-scale commercial fishing operations.

However, driftnets are also associated with significant bycatch issues. Because they are indiscriminate, they can capture and kill non-target species, including marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds, and other fish species not intended for harvest. This has led to concerns about the sustainability of driftnet fishing and its impact on marine ecosystems.

In response to these concerns, many countries and international organizations have implemented regulations or outright bans on the use of large-scale driftnets. These measures aim to reduce bycatch and protect vulnerable marine populations. Smaller, more targeted nets with specific mesh sizes and deployment methods are often used as alternatives.