A range of gears and methods are used in commercial fishing. All have some effect on the ocean environment. However, if carefully managed, virtually all gear types can be used responsibly and sustainably.
The common gear types below are some of those used by fisheries engaged in the MSC program.
With the exception of those using explosives and poisons, fisheries using any wild-capture fishing technique can be assessed to the MSC Fisheries Standard. The impacts of a fishery on habitats and fish populations are considered by an independent assessment team.
With the exception of those using explosives and poisons, fisheries using any wild-capture fishing technique can be assessed to the MSC Fisheries Standard. The impacts of a fishery on habitats and fish populations are considered by an independent assessment team.
Demersal or bottom trawl
Gillnets
Longlines
Purse seine
