AC5 Annex 7: Summary advice statement for reducing impact of pelagic longline gear on seabirds

Streamer line shave been widely promoted to deter seabirds in pelagic longline fisheries since the 1990s. However, recent evidence shows that streamer lines of either conventional or "light" design, used in either single or double configuration, are inadequate for reducing seabird bycatch unless combined with other mitigation measures. To be effective they must be used with branchline weighting and, preferably, night setting. The most effective measures to reduce incidental take of seabirds in pelagic longline fisheries are:
-use of an appropriate line weighting regime to reduce the time baited hooks are near or on the surface and thus available to birds;
-avoiding peak areas and periods of seabird foraging activity;
-setting at night; and
-actively deterring birds from baited hooks by means of bird scaring lines, in combination with appropriate line weighting.
Responsible management of offal and discards can also assist. It is important to note that there is no single solution to reduce or avoid incidental mortality of seabirds in pelagic longline fisheries, and that the most effective approach is to use the above measures in combination.