laivõrgud

Laivõrgud, often translated as "fishing nets," are essential tools used in commercial and artisanal fishing worldwide. These nets are constructed from various materials, with synthetic fibers like nylon being most common due to their durability, strength, and resistance to rot. The design and construction of a laivõrgud vary significantly depending on the target species, the fishing environment, and the fishing method employed.

The primary function of laivõrgud is to entrap fish. This can be achieved through several methods. Some nets are designed to be dragged through the water, scooping up fish as they go (trawling). Others are stationary, anchored in place to intercept fish as they swim by (gillnets or trammel nets). Cast nets are circular nets that are thrown by hand, spreading out and sinking to capture fish in a contained area. Purse seines create a "purse" at the bottom of the net, closing it off to trap schools of fish.

The mesh size of a laivõrgud is a critical factor, determining the size of the fish that can be caught. Smaller mesh sizes will catch smaller fish, while larger mesh sizes allow smaller fish to escape, thus acting as a form of size selectivity. The material, knot type, and overall dimensions of the net are all carefully considered by fishermen to maximize catch efficiency and minimize bycatch, the unintentional capture of non-target species. Regulations regarding net design and usage are common in fisheries management to ensure sustainability.