Large Pelagic Mechanised Gillnet Fishing Systems of Odisha Coast, India

Abstract

Mechanisation brings about major developments in fishing systems. Main fishing gear operated in Odisha state targeting large pelagics are drift gillnets. Odisha coast is an ecologically sensitive area having one of the four significant arribada beaches of Olive Ridley turtle, with three mass nesting beaches. Large mesh drift gillnets are reported to be the main gear contributing to incidental catch of turtles. The gillnet fishing sector has undergone many changes during the last few decades in terms of size of craft and gear, area of operation and trip duration. This paper deals with design and general features of mechanised gillnet fishing system operated in the coastal waters of Odisha. Presently mechanised gillnetters of 8-19 m LOA with 70 to 140 hp inboard engines go for voyage fishing of up to 30 days. Drift gillnets of the states are made of Polyamide (PA) and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) having mesh size ranging from 80-380 mm. Total fleet size of the net increased substantially over the years extending up to 9300 m. Drift gillnets targeting tuna, seerfish, bill fish and shark are operated mainly during night time in waters up to a depth of 1200 m. In view of the increase in the size of the gear running several kilometres, there are more chances of turtle kill which calls for monitoring and surveillance.