How lure prevalence, survival rate and maturity status affect catchability in cuttlefish trap fishery

Abstract

Trap fishing is considered a low impact and fuel-efficient capture technique that is drawing increasing attention. However, due to their low capture efficiency fisheries sustainability may only be attained by improving the profitability of these gears. The present study attempted to provide the necessary background for the establishment of a cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) trap fishery in Thermaikos Gulf (Eastern Mediterranean), an area heavily fished using gears of questionable sustainability such as the trammel nets. This task required the implementation of gear types and fishing operation techniques from other fishing areas. However, the use of empty traps or traps with an artificial spawning substrate like branches of shrubs, similar to other areas, proved ineffective. Cuttlefish catches were only successful by baiting the trap with a female lure that entices males to enter the trap. The fishing method is apparently determined by the physical characteristics of the seabed. Other important factors including the shape and size of trap entrances and soaking time were also investigated to address crucial knowledge gaps and develop an optimum fishing protocol and trap technical characteristics for this potentially new métier for small-scale fisheries in Greece.