Design aspects of marine gill nets of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India

Gill nets were the most commonly used gear depended upon by the maximum fishermen in Ratnagiri, India. Marine gill nets of Ratnagiri were investigated to study their design and technical characteristics. Ten fishing centres from Ratnagiri where gill net fishing is actively done were selected for the study. The nets were classified into different groups and the technical specifications of each type were detailed. Nets of different mesh sizes ranging from 45 to 200 mm targeted at different groups of fishes were prevalent in Ratnagiri. Synthetic materials like polyamide had almost completely replaced the natural fibres in gill nets. PA monofilament material was most popularly used for gill nets targeted for mackerel, pomfret, shrimp, shark and sole fish while, PA multifilament material was mostly used for seer fish. For gill net fishing in Ratnagiri, vessels such as dugout canoe, plank built canoe with or without outrigger, wooden, FRP coated wooden and FRP boats were being used. Non-motorized, motorized and mechanized fishing vessels were engaged in gill net fishing operation from Ratnagiri.