The Effect of Gangion Floats on Bait-loss and Catch Rates in Longlining

摘要

The use of gangion floats will expectedly reduces bait loss and increase catch rates in bottom longlining. Two floats of 5- and 8 g buoyancy are tested through flume tank experiments, underwater observations in the field and in comparative fishing trials with both manual and automated baiting. Compared to traditional gear, the gangion floats gave a significantly reduced bait loss and catch increase was obtained for some combinations of float and baiting technique.