SFWF Mechanical Jigging Survey

Winter skate (Leucoraja ocellata), one of the targeted species of this study. Picture: Andy Murch

Purpose of work:

Within the South Fork Wind Farm (SFWF) limited maneuverability and potential damage to equipment caused by to the interactions of fishing gear and turbine infrastructure or buried cables prevents the deployment of traditional fishing gear such as trawls or gill nets in this area. These traditional methods, namely trawling, for harvesting bottom dwelling species have often been criticized for their impact on the seafloor as well as high rates of bycatch. In response to the aforementioned conflicts, we seek to investigate an alternative method; mechanical jigging. This project serves to assess the viability of mechanical jigging systems as an alternative method to monitor benthic fishes within the SFWF area. Jigging can be used as a much more targeted fishing method with several advantages including reduced environmental impact, lower bycatch rates, reduced fuel consumption, and maneuverability within wind farm areas.

prOJECT TEAM

A monkfish (Lophius americanus), another targeted species of this study.

  • Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation

    • Matt Rodriguez - Project Lead

    • N. David Bethoney

  • Collaborators

    • Joe Letourneau, Owner/Operator, F/V Lady Rebecca

    • Greg Mataronas, Owner/Operator, F/V Cailyn and Maren

    • Todd Sutton, Owner/Operator, F/V Sweet Misery

Participant Vessels:

  • F/V Sweet Misery

  • F/V Cailyn and Maren

Sampling Method:

  • During fall sampling (October-December 2023) we used both jigging systems with a variety of settings and gear set-ups.

  • At the end of sampling we decided to use a modified fluke rig to better appeal to the targeted species.

  • Our final sampling method uses the aforementioned rig and no jigging motion performed by the machines. This allows the lures to be dragged along the bottom as the vessel drifts, maximizing the number of individuals who may encounter the bait.

Experimental approach:

  • During the piloting study for this project during fall 2023 we tested 2 different mechanical jigging systems (Waterman and DNG). From which we hoped to compare the quality and quantity of catch between them and identify a standard sampling approach.

  • To develop this standard sampling approach, we worked adjacent to NOAA and their own jigging survey efforts so that we can share data and best practices. Additionally, we brought in captain Joe Letourneau as a specialist due to his familiarity with mechanical jigging systems as he uses them in his day-to-day fishing operations in the Gulf of Maine.

Survey Gear:

  • Automatic DNG brand machine (Left)

  • Mechanically assisted Waterman brand (Right).

  • From our experiences in the fall and after discussing with captains, we have decided to discontinue using the Waterman brand machines and focus exclusively on using the DNG system.