Tagavarte

Tagavarte is a type of fishing net used in certain coastal regions, particularly in some parts of the Mediterranean Sea and other similar marine environments. The primary purpose of a tagavarte is to catch small pelagic fish that school near the surface or in the mid-water column. It is often described as a seine net, meaning it is designed to be drawn around a school of fish.

The construction of a tagavarte typically involves a long, rectangular piece of netting. The mesh size is carefully chosen to retain the target fish species while allowing smaller organisms to escape. One edge of the net is usually weighted to keep it submerged, while the other edge is floated with buoys to keep it at the surface or at the desired depth. The net is deployed from a boat and then maneuvered to encircle a school of fish. Once the school is enclosed, the ends of the net are pulled together, or the net is hauled aboard, concentrating the fish within its mesh.

Tagavarte fishing is generally considered a selective fishing method when operated correctly, as it targets specific schools of fish. However, like any fishing gear, its impact on the marine ecosystem can vary depending on the fishing practices, the specific location, and the species being targeted. Regulations are often in place to manage tagavarte fishing, including limitations on mesh size, net length, and fishing areas, to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks and minimize bycatch. The term and specific design can vary slightly between different fishing communities.