Selective Fishing for White Hake Using Newfoundland and Norwegian Style Pots

This study conducted comparative fishing experiments for white hake (Urophycis tenuis) using two types of baited pots (the Newfoundland and Norwegian) under commercial fishing conditions. Various experimental treatments, aimed at improving catchability were investigated including the use of triggers, light, number of entrances, and quantity of bait.  Comparative fishing experiments were conducted during the fall of 2013 on the South western edge of NAFO Division 3Ps and 3O, near the Laurentian channel.  Experiments were conducted onboard the 16.8m (55’) F.V. Burin Tradition owned and operated by harvester Winston Pitcher (Burin, Newfoundland). Results showed that the Norwegian pot performed very well in catching white hake and crab species. The Newfoundland pot without triggers also performed well, but researchers speculate that this pot may perform even better if some minor modification were made to incorporate lighter materials with monofilament netting entrances.  The harvester, Mr. Pitcher was very impressed by the results and hopes to continue efforts to develop a baited pot fishery for this species.