Investigations on flexible float - A canvas headline lifting device for trawls
Investigations on flexible float - A canvas headline lifting device for trawls
Date
1993
Authors
Kunjipalu, K.K.
Boopendranath, M.R.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Society of Fisheries Technologis(India)
Abstract
Performance of 'flexible float', a newly developed two panelled canvas headline lifting
device for trawls, has been evaluated through field trials in the waters off Cochin, India,
during 1986-90. Statistically significant improvement in the yield of finfish by 115.9% and
total catch by 69.0% were obtained by a 40 m demersal trawl when rigged with flexible
float. Similarly, a 32 m high opening trawl registered a significant improvement in the
yield of (latish and total catch by 23.2 and 27.8% respectively. Difference in the catch of
crustaceans and cephalopods in both the gears, were not statistically significant. Improved fishing performance is attributed to higher headline lift coupled with enhanced herding effect on the finfish components in the vicinity of trawl mouth caused by addition of visually conspicuous flexible float. PVC-coated nylon fabric which is indigenously
produced, has been identified as a suitable material for fabrication of flexible float in view
of its improved tensile strength and resistance to bio-degradation in marine conditions,
compared to cotton canvas.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Fish Technol. 30(2): 94-98