Bycatch reduction in the Northeast USA directed haddock bottom trawl fishery

Abstract

We investigated the performance of a large mesh faced (upper and lower wings, side panels, first bottom belly) bottom trawl designed to capture haddock ( Melanogrammus aeglefinus) while reducing the bycatch of cod ( Gadus morhua) and other species. This experimental net, named the Eliminator Trawl™, was tested using two vessels, F/V Iron Horse and F/V Sea Breeze, in side-by-side catch comparison hauls with the currently regulated net. A total of 100 successful comparison tows were completed. All species captured were weighed for total weight. Haddock, cod, and the majority of the flounders were measured. The Eliminator Trawl™ significantly reduced the catch of stocks of concern including cod, yellowtail flounder ( Limanda ferruginea), winter flounder ( Pseudopleuronectes americanus), witch flounder ( Glyptocephalus cynoglossus), and American plaice ( Hippoglossoides platessoides). Other species such as monkfish ( Lophius americanus) and skate (unclassified) also showed a significant decrease in catch in the Eliminator Trawl™. In addition, the catch of haddock, the target species, did not differ significantly between nets. The results of this study indicate that the Eliminator Trawl™ would be an efficient tool in gaining access to closed areas and used in recovery programs to exploit more abundant fish species. Examples in the Northeast USA include a B Days-at-Sea Program (DAS) as well as a Special Access Program (SAP) where the Eliminator Trawl™ appears to meet the minimum bycatch requirements to be considered for both these programs.