Catalogue of fishing gear in the Mediterranean and Black Sea region

Book excerpt: The wide variety of marine species of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, found in different geographical subregions and habitats, has led to the development of a highly diversified fishing sector characterized by a broad range of fishing gear. Over time, harvesting marine resources has become more efficient due to a progressively improving understanding of the habits and behaviours of the various target species. In order to find ways to conserve fish resources and the marine environment, there is a need to further study these different types of fishing gear as well as to develop less impactful techniques. To this end, a comprehensive overview of fishing gear and methods in use in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea can facilitate the mitigation of incidental catch of vulnerable species, the mitigation of adverse impacts of fisheries on juvenile fish and discards, the decarbonization of fishing fleets through more energy efficient gear, the development of innovative gear to remove marine litter, and the reduction of lost, abandoned and otherwise discarded fishing gear, to name a few. This catalogue aims to provide such an overview and to describe the main technical characteristics and modes of use of fishing gear in operation in the region, considering specificities and differences not only at the regional level but also at the country and local levels.