A Study on the Safe Route through the Analysis of the Density of the Gill Netters in the West Sea

Abstract

This study attempted to present the monthly distribution of the inshore gill netters for the prevention of propeller failure caused by the damage of fishing gear by the merchant vessels in the West Sea. This study was conducted using the transmitting device of fishing location (V-Pass) data for 1 year in 2014. The grid intervals are 30 minute × 30 minute (latitude × longitude) based on the section of the sea. A total of 56 sections were analyzed by constructing a grid. The results revealed that the section no. 194 with the highest density index showed no fishing gear damage accident. But the section no. 193 with a relatively lower density index showed more frequent fishing gear damage accident. It is because the section no. 193 is included in the main route of the merchant vessels. Based on this analysis, it is found that the fishing gears are not damaged in proportion to density index but risk of damage exists according to the main routes of merchant vessels. Therefore, for the safe navigation of the merchant vessels, notifying the waters of 34.5° ~ 35.5° at latitude and 125.67° ~ 126° at longitude, as a navigational warning area from May through September, will prevent marine accident, such as propeller failure and fishing gear damage. Accordingly, when the merchant vessels navigate in the section no. 193 and 203, the area of 34.5° ~ 35.5° at latitude and 125.5° ~ 125.67° at longitude is recommended for the safe navigation.