Essential Fishing Methods and Gear Explained

Understanding Key Fishing Methods and Equipment

The world of fishing encompasses a wide array of techniques, each designed for specific purposes, target species, and environments. From highly selective methods to broader capture systems, understanding these approaches is crucial for both commercial and recreational anglers. Below, we detail some of the most common and historically significant fishing methods:

Longline Fishing

Longline fishing is considered one of the most selective fishing methods available. Depending on the bait and hook size used, it allows for targeting specific catch sizes or species. This precision makes it a preferred method for certain fisheries.

Purse Seine Fishing

As its name suggests, purse seine fishing involves surrounding a school of fish, particularly species like sardine, horse mackerel, and mackerel. The process includes locating the school, determining their course and speed, and then proceeding to encircle them with a large net that is drawn closed at the bottom, much like a drawstring purse.

Almadraba Tuna Trapping

The Almadraba (from Arabic Andalusian 'maḍraba', meaning 'place where something is hit or fought') is an ancient fishing gear primarily used to catch tuna. Practiced in regions like Andalusia, Valencia, Cartagena, and Ceuta, it takes advantage of the Atlantic-Mediterranean tuna migration. Used since pre-Roman times, it involves installing a labyrinth of nets near the coast to trap the migrating tuna.

Drift Net Systems

Drift net systems are generally less selective. These nets, which can extend for miles, capture almost everything that falls in their path. Fish caught in drift nets can often be bruised or damaged due to the nature of the capture process.

Underwater Spearfishing

This fishing method is performed by free diving and hunting fish using a spear or speargun. Different techniques are employed depending on the characteristics of the fishing area or the target fish. It requires skill, breath-holding ability, and knowledge of marine environments.

Light Tackle Fishing

Light tackle fishing is a generic term describing a type of fishing based on casting imitations of fish (lures) equipped with hooks, and then retrieving them to provoke an attack from predatory fish. This method is practicable in any body of water inhabited by predatory fish, both freshwater and saltwater, and can be done from shore or boat.

Fly Fishing Techniques

Fly fishing is a method that uses a specialized rod and an artificial bait called a 'fly'. Fly fishing is usually practiced on lakes and rivers, but can also be done at sea. It is also known as 'rat tail fishing' due to the unique casting technique.

Weir Fishing Methods

Weir fishing gear forms circular labyrinths where fish can enter but not leave. These mazes are constructed with rods and nets. This method can capture species such as bream, mullet, and sole, often in smaller quantities. It is a highly selective system for specific species and locations, often yielding abundant catches.