driftfisket

Driftfisket, also known as drift netting, is a fishing method that utilizes a long net with a fine mesh, designed to drift with the currents. This net is typically anchored at one end and allowed to drift freely, or it can be set between two drifting boats. The principle behind driftfisket is to intercept fish as they swim into the net, becoming entangled in its mesh.

Historically, driftfisket has been employed for various fish species, including herring, mackerel, and salmon. The technique is particularly effective in open water where fish are likely to be found in large schools. The length and depth of the drift net can be adjusted depending on the target species and the fishing conditions.

However, driftfisket has also been a subject of significant environmental concern. Large-scale drift nets, often referred to as "walls of death," can indiscriminately catch non-target species, including marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles. This bycatch issue has led to international regulations and bans on certain types of drift nets in many parts of the world. Smaller-scale drift netting, often practiced by artisanal fishers, may have a more localized impact and is sometimes permitted under specific management frameworks. The effectiveness of driftfisket is tied to ocean currents and fish migration patterns, making its success variable.