Albatross and longlining - Managing seabird bycatch

Seabirds can be accidentally injured or killed during certain types of fishing. The fishing method currently under most scrutiny for its impact on seabird populations is demersal and pelagic longlining. The main species of concern at present are albatross. This paper outlines current mitigation measures, both gear and operational changes, to deal with the problem. It is suggested that measures can be developed which achieve a reduction in bird loss and which are practical and economic for the fishing industry.