EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CAPTURE FISHERIES

Capture fisheries refer to the harvesting of wild fish and other aquatic species from oceans, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. This includes a wide range of fish species, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms, which are caught using various fishing methods such as nets, lines, and traps.

Capture fisheries play a significant role in providing food and livelihoods for millions of people around the world. In many developing countries, fish is a primary source of protein and an important export commodity. However, overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change have all had a significant impact on global capture fisheries, and in many cases, have led to the depletion of fish stocks.

To ensure the sustainability of capture fisheries, there are various management strategies and regulations in place, including fishing quotas, gear restrictions, and marine protected areas. These measures are designed to help maintain healthy fish populations and protect the environment while allowing fishermen to continue to make a living from the sea.

1. Hook and Line Fishing: This is the most common and traditional method of fishing. It involves a fishing line with a hook attached, baited with either natural or artificial bait. The fish are attracted to the bait and once they bite on the hook, they are reeled in by the fisherman.
2. Cast Netting: This method is commonly used in shallow water where the fish are visible. A circular net with small weights attached to its edges is thrown by the fisherman to create a large circle, trapping the fish inside. Once the net is pulled in, the fish are collected.
3. Set Netting: This method involves setting a net in a specific location and waiting for fish to swim into it. The net is set up to create a trap, with the fish swimming in through a funnel-like opening and unable to escape. This method is used mainly in coastal areas and estuaries.
4. Trapping: Trapping involves using a trap, which can be made of different materials such as bamboo, wire mesh or plastic. The trap is set up in an area where fish are known to be present. The trap is designed in such a way that the fish can swim in easily but find it difficult to escape.
5. Trawling: Trawling is a method of fishing that involves dragging a net behind a boat. The net is designed to scoop up fish that swim in its path. This method is commonly used in deep sea fishing.
6. Harpooning: This method involves the use of a spear with a sharp point, known as a harpoon. The fisherman aims the harpoon at the fish, and once it hits the target, a rope attached to the harpoon is used to reel the fish in.

1. Hooks: Hooks are fishing tools with a bent or curved end, often made of metal, which are attached to fishing lines. They are used to catch fish by impaling them in the mouth or gills. Hooks come in various sizes, shapes, and designs to suit different types of fish and fishing methods.
2. Cages: Cages are used in fish farming or aquaculture. They are made of netting or mesh and can be submerged in water to house fish. Cages are used to contain fish and ensure they do not escape, and to protect them from predators.
3. Knives/cutlasses: Knives and cutlasses are essential tools for fishers, especially when cleaning fish. They are used to cut and remove the fish’s head, tail, and internal organs. They also come in handy when preparing bait for fishing.
4. Traps/basins: Fish traps or basins are used to catch fish passively. They are designed to lure fish in, and once they are inside, it is difficult for them to escape. Fish traps come in different shapes and sizes and can be made of netting, wire, or other materials.
5. Spears: Spears are long poles with sharp pointed ends used to catch fish. They can be used in shallow waters or when fishing from a boat. The sharp point pierces the fish’s body, and the fish can be lifted out of the water and onto the boat.
6. Cast nets: Cast nets are circular nets with weights on the edges that are thrown over a school of fish. The net sinks to the bottom, and the weights trap the fish inside. Cast nets are commonly used in shallow waters and are effective for catching small fish.
7. Gill nets: Gill nets are nets made of fine mesh that are set vertically in the water to catch fish as they swim through. The fish become entangled in the netting, and they are retrieved by pulling the net out of the water.
8. Seine nets: Seine nets are large, rectangular nets that are used to encircle a school of fish. One end of the net is held on shore, and the other end is pulled by a boat, trapping the fish inside. Seine nets are used in shallow waters and can catch large quantities of fish.
9. Drag nets: Drag nets are large nets that are dragged through the water by a boat. The net is held open by floats on the top and weights on the bottom. The fish are caught as they swim into the net and are then lifted onto the boat.

In conclusion, each fishing tool has its specific use, and the choice of equipment will depend on the fishing method, target species, and the fishing location. Some fishing tools are used to capture fish actively, while others are used passively. Regardless of the tool used, responsible fishing practices must be observed to ensure sustainable fishing practices.