Efficacy of Time-Area Fishing Restrictions and Gear-Switching as Solutions for Reducing Seabird Bycatch in Gillnet Fisheries

Authors
O'Keefe, C.E., Cadrin, S.X., Glemarec, G., and Rouxel, Y.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
Reviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture
Volume (Issue #)
31(1)
Page #s
29-46
Contact information
Catherine E. O'Keefe, Fishery Applications Consulting Team, USA- okeefe@fisheryapps.com
Summary

This is a summary of case studies that were reviewed for efficacy of mitigation methods in gillnet fisheries for reducing seabird bycatch, focusing specifically on time-area restrictions and gear-switching. Both methods show promise to reduce bycatch and meet conservation standards, but a holistic approach that considers seabird behavior, target species  activity, and socioeconomic impacts is encouraged. Combining these methods with other measures (e.g., time-area fishing restrictions,
gear-switching, visual and acoustic deterrents) may be feasible and effective in areas where if fine-scale
spatial and temporal information about seabirds and gillnet fisheries is available.