Gillnet

A gillnet is a type of fishing net that hangs vertically in the water, typically from floats. It's designed to catch fish by entangling them in the mesh. The size of the mesh determines the size of fish captured, as fish attempt to pass through the net but are caught by their gills, hence the name. These nets can be drift gillnets (floating free) or set gillnets (anchored). They are a passive fishing method, reliant on fish swimming into the net. Gillnets are sometimes associated with bycatch, as unintended species can also be caught.

Gillnet meaning with examples

• The commercial fisherman deployed a long gillnet offshore, hoping to catch a large haul of salmon. He carefully set the net, ensuring it was properly weighted and buoyed, and then patiently waited. The effectiveness of the gillnet depended on fish abundance and migration patterns. Unfortunately, he also retrieved some dolphins.
• Local regulations dictated the mesh size of the gillnet used in the lake, designed to protect juvenile fish. Smaller mesh sizes were prohibited to avoid catching undersized fish. Enforcement patrols monitored the use of illegal gillnets. The responsible fisherman carefully checked and sorted his catch before returning it to land.
• During the research study, marine biologists employed gillnets to sample fish populations in the estuary. This data helped in understanding fish species distribution and abundance. Detailed notes were recorded on the sizes, quantities and other features of each species. The process was carefully managed to minimize bycatch.
• Despite the warnings, the poachers were caught using illegal gillnets in the protected area, severely damaging fish stocks. The authorities confiscated the nets and imposed heavy fines. The illegal gillnet's fine mesh caught everything. Strict penalties were imposed to deter such activities in the future.
• The historical documentary showed images of traditional fishing communities using hand-woven gillnets. These sustainable practices, coupled with respect for resources, formed the bedrock of their livelihood. gillnet craft was a generations-old practice passed down over time. Their net design ensured sustainable yields.