The management of fisheries resources in the Bay of Biscay has gone through several historical stages. During the 20th century, fleets targeted a wide range of fish species, sometimes offloading large quantities.
Today, sustainable management is required and essential in order to preserve the resources but also to durably maintain the deep-sea fishing profession over the long term. Fishermen harvest key species that may be either ‘cheap’ (sardines, mackerel, whiting) or have high added-value (maigre or thon).
The seasonal nature of the resources and the fluctuation of local and regional markets are among the parameters to be taken into account by a fishing business.
As far as sole, from the sea bass or monkfish are concerned, one of the most common techniques is to trap the fish using a net anchored on the ocean floor.The net makes it possible to catch fish practically without the usual damage from fishing gear and handling.
In addition to the season, the time of day and the time spent on the water as well as the fishing area, certain types of nets are conducive to catching certain species. For example, we fish for sea bream near the shore with ‘fixed gillnets’ in autumn, and in the spring, we fish for hake further offshore with ‘fixed gillnets’ as well as for monkfish with ‘trammel nets’.
The fishing technique, fish size, appearance and freshness will determine the quality and grade and therefore the price. The know-how, experience, taste for work and love of the trade make fishermen full-fledged professionals.
More info: www.peche-nouvelleaquitaine.com
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