Fishing dredge

Fishing dredge also known as oyster dredge is a type of fishing gear used to collect various species of shellfish such as oysters, scallops, and other bivalves from the seabed. It is a popular method of commercial fishing in many parts of the world.

Design and Operation

A fishing dredge typically consists of a metal frame, often rectangular, to which is attached a net or mesh bag. The frame is dragged along the seabed by a fishing vessel, and the shellfish are collected in the bag. Some dredges also include a series of metal teeth or rakes on the front of the frame to disturb the seabed and dislodge the shellfish.

The size and design of the dredge can vary depending on the species being targeted and the nature of the seabed. For example, dredges used for scallop fishing are often larger and heavier than those used for oyster fishing.

Environmental Impact

Fishing dredges can have a significant impact on the marine environment. The dragging of the dredge across the seabed can cause physical disturbance, damaging or destroying seabed habitats and other marine life. This has led to calls for the use of dredging to be more tightly regulated or banned in some areas.

However, proponents of dredging argue that it is a necessary method for collecting shellfish and that the impact can be managed through careful regulation and the use of more selective gear.

Regulation

In many countries, the use of fishing dredges is regulated by fisheries management authorities. Regulations may specify the size and design of the dredge, the areas where it can be used, and the times of year when dredging is permitted. These regulations are designed to protect the marine environment and ensure the sustainability of shellfish stocks.

See Also

• Bottom trawling
• Seabed mining
• Sustainable fishing