longline

Longline is a term with several meanings across different fields. In fishing, a longline refers to a commercial gear consisting of a main fishing line, extending over long distances, from which hundreds or thousands of baited hooks are suspended on branch lines. The system can be deployed at the surface or at depth and is used to catch species such as tuna, swordfish, and halibut. Modern longlines may be several kilometers long and rely on floats and weights to position the hooks. While efficient, longline fisheries raise environmental concerns, including bycatch of seabirds, turtles, and sharks. Management measures include gear modifications like circle hooks, bird-scaring devices, restrictions on setting times or fishing areas, and monitoring and bycatch mitigation programs.

In fashion and apparel, “longline” describes clothing with an unusually extended length, such as longline jackets, coats, or cardigans that extend below the hips or knees, as well as longline bras that extend beneath the bust. This silhouette is used for layering and dramatic lines in streetwear and outerwear, and can appear in swimwear and activewear as well. The term can also describe designs intended to extend the visual line of an outfit, creating a leaner or more elongated look.