fyke

A fyke is a type of fish trap used in inland waters and sometimes along river estuaries. It consists of a series of hoops or frames covered with netting to form one or more funnel-shaped entrances that lead into a central retaining chamber or pot. The trap is usually anchored in shallow water and may be positioned with upstream wings or channels that guide fish toward the entrance. When fish enter the throat, they are funneled into the chamber where they are held until the trap is retrieved.

Fyke nets are used to catch a variety of freshwater species, with eels being among the most common targets in many regions. They are also employed for other migratory or schooling species depending on local regulations and gear design. The two main functional components are the entrance funnels (often called wings) and the interior bag or pot that retains fish.

Construction and deployment vary by region. Traditional fykes use wooden hoops and natural twine, though modern versions may employ metal hoops and synthetic netting. They can be deployed as fixed installations or set temporarily and retrieved regularly. The size of the mesh and the number of chambers are chosen to target specific species and to reduce bycatch.

Etymology and terminology: The term fyke is an old one in English fishing vocabulary, with origins dating back several centuries. It may appear in various spellings and, in regional use, is sometimes paired with the word net (fyke net) or simply fyke to denote the trap itself.

Regulatory note: In many jurisdictions, fyke nets require licenses, and use may be limited by season, location, and mesh size to protect other aquatic life and habitats.