This page highlights ongoing gear innovation for longline fishing. For general information and short videos on Department of Conservation-approved mitigation devices and methods, click here.
Hookpods
Developed by: Hookpod Ltd.
What: Hookpods are a shielding device that cover the point and barb of a baited hook to stop scavenging seabirds getting hooked when setting the line. Once the hook sinks to 10 or 20 metres in depth, a mechanical pressure-released mechanism releases the baited hook from the shield. The hookpods remain attached to the line, and simply close during hauling and storage. Using hookpods has not been found to affect the target species catch rate. There are two Hookpod models:
The Hookpod Mini is a smaller, more compact version which has the sole purpose of preventing seabird bycatch. It is primarily designed for fisheries where longline fishing lights are not used.
The Hookpod LED is larger and heavier and contains a built-in LED fishing light, removing the need for chemical light sticks.
Hookpod use in New Zealand: Since 2019, hookpods have been approved by the Ministry for Primary Industries for use in New Zealand. Since 1 October 2024, all commercial fishers using surface longline fishing methods have been required to either use special hook shielding devices or implement all 3 key seabird mitigations measures at the same time.
More information:
Learn more: https://www.hookpod.com/en/
Contact: [email protected]
Crayfish 'sausage'
Developed by: Edgmont Seafoods, Ocean Pearl Fisheries, Massey University, Fiordland Lobster Company
What: A new type of sausage-shaped bait made using 100% crayfish waste product is currently being trialled to effectively catch rig with a longline. The bait and targeting rig by longline are an innovative solution to mitigate the risk to dolphins and continue to provide fish and chip shops with one of its favourite fish species.
Learn more:https://www.seafood.co.nz/news-and-events/news/detail/sausage-to-the-rescue
Contact: Keith Mawson, [email protected]