What are Risks of Using Trotlines in Low Visibility?

Risks of Entanglement

When fishing in low visibility, the risk of entanglement with trotlines increases. This is because fish may not be able to see the line or hooks, and may become entangled in the line or even the other fish on the line. To mitigate this risk, fishermen can use a “leader” - a shorter line that attaches the main trotline to the bait or lure. This leader should be long enough to allow for a gentle drag, but short enough to prevent entanglement.

Non-Target Species Catch

Low visibility also increases the risk of catching non-target species, such as birds, turtles, or even other fish. Fishermen should use bait and lures that are specific to the target species, and should check their catch regularly to avoid keeping non-target species. Additionally, using a “catch-and-release” policy can help to reduce the risk of harming non-target species.

Techniques for Reduced Risk

In low visibility, it’s essential to use techniques that reduce the risk of entanglement and non-target species catch. One technique is to use a “flag” line - a short line with a bright flag or marker that alerts the fisherman to any entanglement or snag. Another technique is to use a “dummy” line - a line that is attached to the main trotline, but is not baited or lured. This dummy line can help to detect any entanglement or snag before it becomes a problem.