pitkäsiimakalastus

Pitkäsiimakalastus, known in English as longline fishing, is a method of commercial fishing that uses a single, long fishing line, known as a main line, to which many smaller lines with baited hooks, called snoods or gangions, are attached at intervals. These snoods are connected to the main line by swivels or other fasteners, preventing them from twisting.

The main line can extend for many kilometers, with thousands of hooks deployed. The configuration of the longline varies depending on the target species and the fishing grounds. It can be set to fish at the surface, in the mid-water, or along the seabed. Surface longlines are used for pelagic species like tuna and swordfish, while bottom longlines are employed for demersal fish such as cod and halibut.

Pitkäsiimakalastus is a widely used fishing technique globally due to its effectiveness in catching a variety of species. However, it has also been associated with bycatch issues, where non-target species, including seabirds, turtles, and marine mammals, can be caught on the hooks. Various mitigation measures have been developed and implemented to reduce these impacts, such as bird-scaring lines, weighted lines, and changes in bait and hook types. The careful management and regulation of longline fisheries are crucial for sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of marine ecosystems.