Cod Trap

A Cod Trap, also known as a pound net, is a type of trap used for catching fish, particularly cod, in commercial fishing. The trap consists of a series of nets that create a maze-like structure that fish can swim through, but then become trapped in the innermost section of the trap, known as the "cod end".

Cod Traps have been used for centuries and are still widely used today in various parts of the world, including Canada, the United States, and Europe. They are often constructed using wooden stakes, although newer materials such as steel and plastic are now being used as well.

One of the main advantages of a Cod Trap is their efficiency in catching fish. They are able to catch large quantities of cod in a short amount of time, making them a popular choice for commercial fisheries. They are also environmentally friendly, as they do not use any harmful chemicals or cause damage to the ocean floor.

Another advantage of Cod Traps is their ability to selectively catch fish of a certain size. The design of the trap makes it difficult for smaller fish to swim through the nets, allowing only larger fish to be caught. This results in a higher quality catch for fishermen.

Cod Traps are also seen as a more sustainable method of fishing, as they have a very low level of by-catch. By-catch refers to the unintentional capture of non-targeted species such as birds, marine mammals, and other fish. The design of the trap reduces the chance of by-catch, which can have negative impacts on vulnerable species and the surrounding ecosystem.

In conclusion, Cod Traps are a valuable tool for commercial fishing due to their efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability. They have been used for centuries and continue to be an important method of catching cod and other fish species while minimizing harm to the environment.