A range of gears are used in commercial fishing. Every type of gear has some effect on the ocean environment. However, if carefully managed, virtually all gear types can be used responsibly and sustainably.
Common fishing gear types
The common gear types below are some of those used by fisheries engaged in the MSC program.Except for fisheries using explosives and poisons, any fishery catching fish in the wild 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
Pole and line
Pots and traps
Dredges
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Pelagic or midwater trawls
Fish aggregating devices (FADs)
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What is sustainable fishing?
Sustainable fishing means leaving enough fish in the ocean, respecting habitats and ensuring people who depend on fishing can maintain their livelihoods.
Our collective impact
For 20 over years fisheries, scientists, consumers and industry have been part of a collective effort to make sure our oceans are fished sustainably.