Purseseining

Purseseining is a method of fishing that utilizes a large net called a purse seine. This net is deployed around a school of fish, typically by a boat, and then drawn together at the bottom, much like a drawstring purse. This action effectively encircles and traps the fish. The net is then hauled in, bringing the catch to the surface.

This technique is commonly used for fishing schooling pelagic fish such as tuna, mackerel, herring, and sardines. The effectiveness of purseseining is dependent on the ability to locate dense schools of fish. Modern purseseiners often use sonar and aerial spotting to find their targets.

While efficient, purseseining has faced criticism regarding its potential impact on non-target species, known as bycatch. Efforts are made to minimize bycatch through net design and deployment strategies, and some fisheries employ techniques like dolphin-safe tuna fishing. Regulations and quotas are in place in many regions to manage purseseining activities and ensure the sustainability of fish populations. The method can lead to large catches in a single deployment, making it an economically significant fishing practice for many commercial fisheries worldwide.