Longlining is becoming increasingly more important as a method of fishing commercially for certain prime species of fish- particulary in the face of declining stocks. Longlining is much more selective that any other form of fishing and is thus more environmentally acceptable. Furthermore, longlining allows for the targeting of particular prime species and fish caught by this method are less damaged and thus hold a higher value. Despite the many major benefits of longlining, there are, as yet few books which address the technical and economic aspects of this method of commercial fishing. Written by an expert, this new book describes the principles and development of longlining fishing and explains the action of chemical sensing in fish and their behaviour towards baited hooks. Details of gear construction, the operation cycle for longlines, longline vessels and the different principles of mechanised baiting and on-board gear handling are provided and typical examples are given. The target species, gear parameters and catching efficiency, and the selective properties of longline gear are fully discussed whilst a concluding chapter compares longlining with other fishing methods.

Asmund Bjordal is Research Director of the Department of Marine Resources at the Institute of Marine Research.