Fishing News 20240902-20240908
Latest Fishing News 20240902-20240908 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
EAPO’s Response to Commission Consultation: A Call for Balanced Sustainability (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 2, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
Overview of Fishing Opportunities and Sustainability
The European Association of Fish Producers Organisations (EAPO) has responded to the European Commission’s consultation on fishing opportunities for 2025. The EAPO acknowledges the Commission’s efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices but emphasizes that sustainability encompasses more than ecological metrics. While commending the Commission’s focus on reducing fishing mortality and increasing stock biomass, the EAPO expresses concern about stagnant fish stocks in certain regions, including the Baltic, Celtic, and Greater North Seas. The EAPO highlights the potential negative impact of offshore wind farms on these stocks, referencing a recent Nature article, and urges careful consideration of such developments.
Concerns Over ICES Advice and Data Quality (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The EAPO has raised concerns about the quality of advice provided by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). While recognizing ICES’ efforts to improve data collection and provide accurate advice, the EAPO notes discrepancies between scientific data and fishers’ observations. The organisation calls for greater transparency and quality assurance in ICES advice, particularly regarding the use of new models for data-poor stocks. The EAPO argues that improving data quality should be prioritized over relying on precautionary models that may not accurately reflect the actual state of fish stocks.
Fishing Capacity and Socio-Economic Indicators
The EAPO welcomes the Commission’s consideration of socio-economic indicators, which are crucial for assessing the sustainability of the fishing industry. However, the organisation is concerned about the increasing number of fleet segments classified as “unbalanced” in Member States’ reports on the balance between fishing capacity and opportunities. The EAPO suggests revisiting the principles used to determine this balance and advocates for a more flexible approach to capacity ceilings, especially considering the industry’s transition to alternative fuels and energy-efficient practices.
International Governance and Coastal States Negotiations (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The EAPO supports the Commission’s efforts to strengthen international ocean governance and create a level playing field for EU fishers. The organisation highlights the need to address unilateral actions by other coastal states, such as setting excessive quotas, which could lead to overfishing. The EAPO also expresses concern about the UK’s recent actions, including the sandeel fishing ban and the granting of access to its waters to Norwegian vessels, which EAPO believes undermines the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the EU and the UK.
Conclusion: A Call for Meaningful Dialogue
The EAPO’s response to the Commission’s consultation reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that the future of EU fisheries is guided by a balanced approach to sustainability, incorporating ecological, social, and economic factors. As negotiations for the 2025 fishing opportunities approach, the EAPO urges the Commission to consider these factors and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to address the complex challenges facing the fishing industry.
A Whale in Distress: Rescuers Confront a Complex Entanglement (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 3, 2024
(source: miamiherald.com – by Brendan Rascius)
A 26-foot humpback whale found itself trapped in a tangled mess of fishing gear off the coast of Australia. This “heavily entangled” whale, spotted near Coffs Harbour on August 31st, was dragging a knotted mass of rope and buoys. Responding quickly to a report about the whale’s plight, Sea World staffers embarked on a rescue operation.
A Deliberate Approach to a Complex Situation
The rescue team recognized the urgency of the situation, but they also understood the importance of a meticulous approach. “We didn’t want to rush,” stated Andy Mulville, a skipper involved in the rescue. The team took their time, ensuring ideal conditions for a safe and complete disentanglement. They carefully approached the whale in a dinghy and attached a large orange buoy to the entanglement.
Slowing the Whale, Cutting the Entanglement (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The buoy served a crucial purpose, slowing the whale down and allowing the rescue team to track its movements. Once the whale was stabilized, the team used specialized equipment to methodically remove the entanglement. “Cut by cut,” explained Ben Markham, a marine mammal specialist, the team worked diligently to free the whale from its captive gear.
A Successful Rescue: A Whale Set Free
Within an hour, the entangled whale was swimming free, exhibiting only minor, superficial injuries. The disentanglement, which was brought back to shore, included several buoys and dozens of feet of rope. While the source of the entanglement remained unclear, it was confirmed as commercial fishing equipment.
A Collaborative Effort: A Network of Rescuers (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
This rescue operation was a collaborative effort, involving a drone team from the Organization for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia and volunteers stationed along the coast. The recent months have witnessed numerous humpback whale rescues off the coast of Australia, a critical part of the whales’ winter migration route.
The Ongoing Threats to Whales
Entanglements in fishing gear pose a significant threat to whales, along with vessel strikes and ocean noise. These threats underscore the importance of continued efforts to protect whales and ensure their survival.
A Sea in Crisis: Record Heat and Mass Die-Offs Threaten the Mediterranean (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 4, 2024
(source: seashepherdglobal.org – by ???)
The Mediterranean Sea, already burdened with the title of the most overfished body of water globally, now faces an escalating crisis. This summer, scorching temperatures have reached record highs, resulting in catastrophic fish die-offs along the coasts of Italy and Greece. The increasing intensity of climate change is exacerbating pre-existing threats to marine life, causing devastating consequences for the delicate ecosystem of this region. Sea Shepherd, a dedicated organization combating illegal fishing to protect vulnerable species, now faces an even more urgent situation as climate-induced disasters intensify.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Fuel the Crisis
Recent reports paint a dire picture of the Mediterranean Sea’s escalating temperatures. In mid-August 2024, the waters off the Egyptian coast reached a staggering 31.96°C, marking a new record high. The daily median temperature across the Mediterranean has climbed to 28.9°C, surpassing the 2023 record of 28.71°C. This rapid warming trend, exceeding the global average, leads to more frequent and severe marine heatwaves. These heatwaves disrupt the delicate balance of marine life, impacting everything from fish migration patterns to the spread of invasive species like lionfish and certain sea urchins.
Tragic Consequences of Rising Temperatures: Mass Die-Offs (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The consequences of these record-breaking temperatures are already becoming tragically clear. In late July, the lagoon of Orbetello in Tuscany experienced a deadly heatwave, with water temperatures soaring to 35°C. This extreme heat led to a rapid decline in oxygen levels, suffocating nearly 200 tons of fish within just three days. Despite frantic efforts by local authorities to cool the lagoon, the devastation was unavoidable. The President of Tuscany declared a state of emergency, yet the future of the fish remains uncertain, vulnerable to further temperature spikes.
A Similar Disaster Strikes Greece: A Port Choked by Dead Fish
The Greek port of Volos also witnessed a catastrophic fish die-off, driven by extreme weather and climate change. Following severe flooding in the Thessaly region last year, Lake Karla expanded dramatically, only to recede drastically during this year’s heatwave and drought. This forced freshwater fish into the saltwater port of Volos, where they succumbed to the sudden change in salinity. Hundreds of thousands of rotting fish covered the port and surrounding shoreline, decimating local tourism and raising serious concerns about the broader impact on the marine ecosystem. Cleanup operations have removed over 270 tons of fish, and Greece’s Climate Minister has declared a state of emergency until the end of September.
The Urgent Need for Action: A Call to Protect Marine Life (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
Valia Stafanoudaki, Director of Sea Shepherd Greece, emphasizes the urgent need for action to safeguard marine wildlife in the Mediterranean. Highlighting the indifference to the plight of marine species amidst the escalating climate crisis, she states, “No one cares about the fish.” She stresses the importance of protecting these creatures from all threats, including illegal fishing, as the Mediterranean grapples with climate change and global warming.
Sea Shepherd’s Ongoing Efforts: Combating Illegal Fishing
Earlier this year, Sea Shepherd Global, in collaboration with Greece’s Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency, renewed its commitment to patrolling the National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades, a vital sanctuary for endangered marine species. As the Mediterranean faces escalating environmental challenges, Sea Shepherd’s campaigns to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing are more critical than ever.
A Collective Responsibility: Protecting the Mediterranean’s Future (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The future of the Mediterranean’s marine life depends on our collective efforts to mitigate climate change and protect these vulnerable ecosystems. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enforcing stricter regulations on illegal fishing, every action contributes to the cause. As the Mediterranean continues to warm, the need to safeguard its rich biodiversity transcends regional boundaries, becoming a global imperative.
Join the Fight: Protecting One of the World’s Most Vital Ecosystems
To learn more about Sea Shepherd’s efforts to protect the Mediterranean Sea, explore their ongoing campaigns in Greece and Italy (Operation Monachus and Operation Siso) and read their recent article on the Top 5 Threats to the Mediterranean Sea and How We Can Combat Them. Every step we take collectively moves us closer to preserving one of the world’s most vital marine ecosystems.
Naoned: A Seine Trawler Pioneering a Digital Revolution in Fishing (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 5, 2024
(source: nationalfisherman.com – by Carli Stewart)
A seine trawler named Naoned, operated by the Lorient company APAK, is undergoing a transformative journey. The vessel has been equipped with sensors to gather data on all aspects of its fishing operations. This data will be used to create a digital twin of the vessel, a computer-based model that will revolutionize fishing operations.
A Digital Twin for Sustainable Fishing: Data-Driven Optimization
The digital twin for Naoned will allow APAK to compare its current performance with the low-emission hybrid propulsion system that will be installed later this year as part of the HYBA project. Led by the Brittany Fisheries Committee and managed by Vectura Systems, the HYBA project involves a diverse group of stakeholders, including Coprexma, a naval architect, and a network of local companies.
Data-Driven Efficiency: Measuring the Impact of Hybrid Propulsion (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
Naoned operates in various fisheries, including pelagic and demersal trawl fishing and seine netting. The data collected before and after the refit will be meticulously analyzed to compare the performance differences and identify potential savings. This data will be invaluable for understanding the impact of hybrid propulsion on fuel consumption and overall efficiency.
A Legacy Vessel Embracing Innovation: Naoned’s Transformation
Built in 1999 by Piriou, a shipyard leader in mid-size vessel construction, Naoned was originally named Gloire a Marie III. After being sold to APAK in 2017, the vessel was retrofitted for seine netting and renamed Naoned. APAK has since added newer vessels to its fleet, but Naoned was selected for the HYBA project because it is the oldest vessel with ample space to accommodate a battery pack.
Fuel Savings and Environmental Benefits: A Vision for the Future (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
Eric Guygniec, APAK’s owner, recognizes the significant challenge and potential of this transition. He envisions a future where Naoned’s hybrid propulsion system will reduce fuel consumption by 10-20%, resulting in substantial cost savings and a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Guygniec emphasizes the vessel’s versatility, allowing for the collection of precise data on a multitude of parameters.
A Digital Twin’s Potential: Optimizing Energy Consumption Across Industries
Marinelec Technologies developed the analytical econometric technology for the project, and the data will be analyzed alongside environmental factors, sea state, and operational conditions. Vectura Systems brings its expertise in decarbonization to the project. Sebastian Berthebaud, CEO and engineer with Vectura, envisions the digital twin as a powerful tool for optimizing energy consumption across various industries. He believes that this technology can be applied to a range of vessels, from fishing boats to passenger vessels and tugs.
Beyond Brittany: The Potential for Mediterranean Adaptation (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
While the HYBA project on Naoned has been temporarily delayed due to the closure of the Bay of Biscay fishery, fishermen from Sete and Grau du Roi have travelled to Brittany to inspect the vessel. Berthebaud highlights the potential for adapting hybrid technology to day boat fishing vessels in the Mediterranean, expanding the project’s impact beyond its initial scope.
Southern Miss Hosts Fly Fishing Film Tour: A Celebration of Conservation and Research (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 6, 2024
(source: usm.edu – by Gabriela Shinskie)
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) will host the 18th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) 2024, showcasing a collection of spectacular fly fishing films from around the world. The event will be held on Saturday, September 21st at 3:00 PM at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Doors will open at 2:00 PM, welcoming attendees to a night of cinematic adventures and a celebration of conservation efforts.
Highlighting Gulf of Mexico Ecosystems: A Focus on Local Research
The event aims to foster community support for conservation efforts, particularly those related to the Gulf of Mexico. USM researchers, deeply connected to the region’s ecosystems, hope to ignite interest in these critical initiatives. Dr. Kelly Darnell, Director of GCRL, actively seeks opportunities for USM to collaborate with local communities, promoting ongoing research and showcasing the university’s commitment to scientific exploration.
USM’s Commitment to Research: Partnering with the Costa Marlin Fly Project (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
USM’s Center for Fisheries Research and Development (CFRD) partnered with the Costa Marlin Fly Project to feature a film about their collaborative work. Dr. Jim Franks, Senior Research Scientist, and Jeremy Higgs, CFRD Assistant Director, are integral members of the project team. Higgs will present his research findings, discussing the project with other billfish scientists and community partners.
A Breakthrough in Billfish Research: The Costa Marlin Fly Project
The Costa Marlin Fly Project, a Community X Conservation Project, took place in December 2022 off Magdalena Bay, Baja California Sur, Mexico. The project aimed to understand and examine striped marlin caught on the fly, as fly fishing for this species has gained significant popularity. Researchers sought to analyze the impact of the fishery on striped marlin populations and develop strategies for their protection. Costa spearheaded this collaborative effort, bringing together Costa Pros, the San Carlos community, conservation organizations, and billfish scientists from USM-CFRD, the Billfish Foundation, and the International Game Fish Association. The team successfully deployed 15 satellite tags in under 24 hours, a first for billfish research using fly fishing techniques.
A Cinematic Journey: Documenting the Marlin Fly Project’s Success
The film featured at the F3T 2024 event documents the expedition and the success of the Marlin Fly Project. The film highlights the collaborative efforts and research accomplishments, showcasing the importance of conservation and scientific advancement in understanding and protecting marine species.
A Shift in Strategy: Aussie Seafood Industry Encourages Domestic Consumption of Tiger Prawns (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 7, 2024
(source: abc.net.au – by Abbey Halter / Bridget Herrmann / ABC Rural / Fishing and Aquaculture Industry)
Australian consumers are being encouraged to indulge in more wild-caught tiger prawns as fishers shift their focus from international markets to domestic sales. The Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Queensland has experienced a slow start to the season, with declining catches and challenging international markets. Austral Fisheries, one of Australia’s largest commercial fishing companies, faces this reality head-on.
Over Supply and Price Drops: A Shift Towards Domestic Markets
Bryan Van Wyck, Northern Prawn Division Operations Manager at Austral Fisheries, explains that an oversupply in international markets has driven down prices, making it difficult to maintain profitability. As a result, the company is actively promoting tiger prawns to Australian consumers. “We believe Australian seafood should be enjoyed by Australians,” Van Wyck emphasizes, highlighting their commitment to boosting domestic sales and consumption.
Tiger Prawns: A Culinary Delicacy with a Growing Domestic Following (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
While Austral Fisheries primarily supplies the domestic market with banana prawns, known for their affordability and taste, tiger prawns have a dedicated following in certain Australian markets. Ocean World Seafood Market in Cairns, Far North Queensland, sells up to 300 kilograms of cooked-at-sea tiger prawns weekly, making them the top seller. Owner Peter Adams emphasizes the high quality and demand for wild-caught tiger prawns, which are considered a luxury item by many Australian consumers.
The Allure of Wild-Caught Tiger Prawns: A Christmas Table Staple
Tiger prawns are often sought after for special occasions, especially Christmas. Their premium quality and impressive presentation make them a centerpiece on many holiday tables. The industry is actively targeting shoppers seeking high-quality seafood for festive meals. However, the decreasing export prices and declining global demand for tiger prawns pose challenges for the industry.
Declining Demand and Lower Export Prices: A Shift in Market Dynamics (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The average unit export price for Australian prawns has dropped significantly in recent years, from $36.68 per kilo in 2023 to $28.41 per kilo in 2024. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including the influx of farmed prawns from aquaculture farms, which has lowered prices overall. The traditional markets in Asia, once eager to pay premium prices for Australian tiger prawns, are now less willing to do so.
The Impact of Rising Fuel Costs and Reduced Access to Supplies
The suspension of Sea Swift motherships in 2023 has further complicated the situation, increasing fuel costs for northern fishers and limiting access to vital supplies. The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) predicts a decrease in the value of Australian prawns, attributed to lower wild-caught catches and depressed international prices. The volume of Australian prawn exports is expected to decline from 4,464 tonnes in 2022-23 to 4,128 tonnes in 2023-24.
A New Era of Fishing Technology (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
September 8, 2024
(source: timesfreepress.com – by Larry Case / Correspondent)
From Simple to Sophisticated
Fishing has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. From the days of simple rod and reel techniques to the modern era, advancements in technology have drastically altered the way anglers approach the sport. Once, anglers relied on instinct and intuition, casting their lines and hoping for the best. Today, however, they have access to an arsenal of sophisticated tools that enhance their ability to locate and catch fish.
The Rise of Big-Money Bass Tournaments
Competitive bass fishing has become a multi-billion dollar industry, with tournaments attracting top anglers vying for substantial prize money. The competitive nature of these events has driven the development and adoption of new technologies. The introduction of sonar-based devices, known as fish finders, has revolutionized the sport by providing anglers with a glimpse beneath the water’s surface.
The Controversy Surrounding Forward-Facing Sonar (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The most recent technological advancement in the fishing world is forward-facing sonar (FFS). This technology allows anglers to visualize fish in real-time, providing them with an unprecedented advantage in locating and targeting their prey. The ability to see fish directly in front of the boat has sparked debate among anglers and tournament organizers.
The NPFL’s Decision and its Implications
The National Professional Fishing League (NPFL), a major fishing tournament organization, has taken a bold step by announcing a ban on the use of FFS starting in 2025. This decision aims to level the playing field and maintain the traditional aspects of the sport. While the NPFL is a significant player in the competitive fishing scene, the ban has yet to be adopted by other major organizations like BASS and Major League Fishing.
A Balancing Act for the Future (Fishing News 20240902-20240908)
The integration of technology in fishing has presented both challenges and opportunities. As technology continues to evolve, the world of competitive fishing will need to find a balance between innovation and tradition. Whether FFS ultimately gains widespread acceptance in tournaments or faces a more permanent ban remains to be seen.
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