The Development of a Suitable Synthetic Replacement for the Traditional Cotton Drift Nets as Utilised in the Cornish Pilchard Fishery

Summary

This report was the second in a series of 3 reports on drift netting for pilchards. Drift netting for pilchards is an environmentally friendly fishing method that is highly energy efficient. The fishery had ceased to be viable in the 1950s due to economic factors. If redeveloped, the fishery could bring considerable benefits though both employment and tourism. The report concluded that the old style cotton nets could indeed be replaced with a synthetic equivalent, and that the correct stiffness of the twine was identified as being very important in allowing pilchard removal without damage.

Publication Reference No.

SR341

Publication date

01 February 1988