Kalavõrke

Kalavõrke, often simply referred to as fishing nets, are essential tools used in commercial and recreational fishing to catch fish. These nets are constructed from a mesh of interconnected threads, typically made of nylon or other synthetic materials, which are woven together to create a specific size of opening. The size of this mesh opening is crucial as it determines the size of the fish that can be retained by the net, serving as a method of size selectivity.

There are numerous types of fishing nets, each designed for specific fishing methods, target species, and aquatic environments. Common examples include seines, which are large nets dragged through the water or along the seabed; trawls, which are large nets towed behind one or more boats; gillnets, which entangle fish by their gills; and cast nets, which are circular nets thrown by hand. The construction and deployment of these nets vary significantly, impacting their effectiveness and the types of fish they catch.

The use of fishing nets has a long history, with evidence suggesting their use dating back thousands of years. While highly effective for harvesting fish, concerns have been raised regarding their environmental impact. Issues such as bycatch, the unintentional capture of non-target species including marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds, and the problem of "ghost fishing," where lost or discarded nets continue to trap and kill marine life, are significant challenges associated with their use. Regulations and technological advancements are continually being developed to mitigate these negative effects and promote sustainable fishing practices.