Trålers

Trålers are fishing vessels that hunt in the ocean by towing a trawl net through the water. The term is used in Norwegian, Danish, and other Scandinavian languages to designate trawlers, which can target a range of species by using different types of nets. Trawlers operate in both demersal (bottom) and pelagic (midwater) environments.

Bottom trawlers, also known as otter or beam trawlers, tow a net along the seabed. They use otter boards or metal beams that spread and direct the net open as the vessel moves. Bottom trawling is common for species such as cod, haddock, and flatfish, but it can disturb the seabed and affect non-target organisms. Pelagic trawlers tow nets through the water column at mid depths and are used for species like herring and mackerel; these vessels typically target fish schools rather than the seabed.

Operations involve deploying the net, maintaining gear, sorting the catch, and storing the catch aboard. Trawl nets vary in design, including different mouth shapes, meshes, and bycatch reduction features. Some trawlers operate in pairs, towing a single net between two vessels for balance and efficiency.

Environmental and regulatory considerations focus on bycatch, discards, and seabed impact. Many regions implement quotas, gear restrictions, protected areas, and bycatch mitigation measures. International and regional bodies monitor, manage, and regulate trawling activity to balance fisheries with conservation goals. The trawling fleet remains a significant component of global commercial fishing, providing large volumes of seafood but facing ongoing debates over sustainability and ecosystem effects.