nifca news winter 2025
NIFCA is pioneering a new research project to test the use of pelagic otter boards in the local Nephrops trawl fishery in partnership with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. The aim is simple: to assess whether this gear type can reduce the footprint of trawling on seabed habitats, lower fuel use and running costs, and minimise unwanted bycatch, all while maintaining Nephrops catch rates comparable to traditional trawl setups. Why Pelagic Otter Boards? Traditional otter boards make contact with the seabed, increasing the swept area and potentially disturbing sensitive marine habitats. In contrast, the innovative pelagic design lifts the boards into the water column, significantly reducing direct seabed contact and the overall environmental footprint of the gear. Survey Work and Data Collection During a multi-day at-sea survey, depth sensors were fitted to both the otter boards and the trawl, with cameras positioned at several points across the gear. These instruments recorded how the equipment performed in the water column and how the trawl interacted with the seabed. A Collaborative Project This project has been shaped with strong support from the local fishing industry. A local under-10-metre vessel and the practical expertise of local fishers (who work with this gear daily) have been central to the trial’s success. The trial is expected to conclude at the end of the year. Once the analysis is complete, NIFCA will release further updates along with a full project report available on our website. A New Approach to Reducing impacts of Trawling in the nifca district
Chief Officer Mark Southerton said: “This project shows what can be achieved when science and industry work together. We are committed to exploring innovative gear that support objectives of the Fisheries Act 2020. Early results are encouraging, helping deliver Sustainability and Ecosystem Objectives, reduce bycatch, protect the seabed, and lower fuel use in line with Climate Change Objectives. Innovation like this helps us move in the right direction.”
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