longlines

Longlines are a fishing technique that involves stretching a very long main fishing line, sometimes over miles, across the water. Attached to this main line are hundreds or thousands of baited hooks, often on shorter branch lines called gangions. This method allows fishermen to catch large quantities of species like tuna and swordfish efficiently. However, longlines can also unintentionally catch other marine animals, such as sharks, turtles, and seabirds, leading to concerns about bycatch and their environmental impact. Effective management and use of measures like bird-scaring devices and turtle excluder devices are important for reducing negative effects on marine ecosystems.