Longlining, also known as longline fishing, is a commercial fishing technique widely used to catch a variety of fish and seafood species. This method involves the deployment of a long main line that can stretch from one to 62 miles, to which smaller branch lines with baited hooks are attached. The branch lines are spaced at intervals along the main line, allowing for the capture of multiple fish at once (source: Wikipedia).

This fishing method is versatile and can be used in different environments, including deep-sea and shallow waters. Auto longline fishing, a specific type of longlining, is designed for bottom fishing, where the gear is set horizontally along the ocean floor and secured in place using anchors (source: Australian Fisheries Management Authority). Large offshore longlines can be substantial in length, sometimes reaching tens of kilometers (source: Sustain).

Longlining employs a combination of mainlines, gangions (the shorter branch lines), and baited hooks (source: NOAA Fisheries). However, the technique poses potential bycatch challenges, as non-target species may also become ensnared in the gear. The impact of longlining on marine ecosystems has prompted discussions around sustainable fishing practices (source: North Coast Seafoods).

For those looking for a visual explanation, a YouTube video detailing how seafood is caught through longlining can offer additional insights into this fishing method (source: YouTube). Overall, longlining remains a significant method in the commercial fishing industry, but it necessitates careful management to mitigate its environmental impact.

Sources

Longline fishing - WikipediaWhat Is Longline Fishing? What Are the Benefits?Longlining | Australian Fisheries Management AuthorityLonglining - Sustain: the alliance for better food and farmingFishing Gear: Pelagic Longlines - NOAA FisheriesHow Seafood is Caught: Longlining - YouTubeLongline fishing (how what you don't know can hurt you) - PubMed

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