Building on Promise: Continued Investigation in Using a 4-Seam Bottom Trawl to Improve Escapement of Small Haddock and Cod. Final Report to the Northeast Consortium

摘要

Two 4-seam bottom trawls were constructed, based on a modified 2-seam groundfish trawl. The side panels of the Control trawl were made of 6 inches (152.4mm) netting in the diamond configuration, and the Experimental trawl had side panels of 5.5 inches (139.7mm) netting, in the square configuration. Ten days of fishing trials were conducted, to assess the ability of the Experimental trawl to improve escapement of juvenile cod (Gadus morhua) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus). Two days of fishing the Experimental trawl were conducted separately, with covers to retain and evaluate side panel escapees. For these two days, regulations required fishing with an open codend.