Set Nets
Set Nets
A set net is a type of net used for fishing. Nets not anchored to the seabed are called drift nets.
Hector’s and Maui’s Dolphins
Because our Hector’s and Maui’s dolphins swim close to the shore, they often become entangled in set nets – which are also used in our shallow coastal waters.One study (by the Ministry of Fisheries and NIWA) has estimated that 110 – 150 Hector’s dolphins are killed in set nets every year. In May 2008, the government banned set netting off some parts of the North Island and most areas around the South Island.
Drift nets over 1 kilometre long were banned in New Zealand waters in 1989.
Set nets
• Strip coastal waters of marine life. They kill nearly everything that swims into them - fish, bird, marine mammal you name it.
• Are among the most wasteful and indiscriminate fishing methods ever developed.
• Are used widely in New Zealand waters by recreational and commercial fishers.
• Are banned in many countries. In many other countries where they are allowed, there are lots of rules in place to help ensure that their threatened wildlife is safe.
• Lots of wildlife drownings are never reported! Yet it is compulsory for fishers to report any catches of marine mammals and seabirds.
In 2008 New Zealand placed some restrictions on set netting to protect our endangered Hector’s and Maui’s dolphins.
We think this is great, but we think it is not enough. We believe our marine creatures deserve set-net free seas!
What does a set net look like?
Once upon a time set nets used to be made of thick twine – which dolphins and other marine life could see and avoid. Since the 1970’s however, set nets have been made with synthetic nylon – which is very hard to see.
To the right is a sketch of a set net. It has red floats at the top. Set nets are weighted down at the bottom to anchor it to the seabed.
It's a very convenient way to fish, because all you need to do is set your net, and wait for fish to swim into its path.
They can be incredibly deadly though. Look at the cartoon below to see what can happen
Ghost fishing... When set nets are discarded or lost at sea they continue to ‘ghost fish’ for years because they are made of long-lasting synthetic plastic. Birds, fish and marine mammals get caught in the discarded nets and drown. Discarded nets can also cause problems for boats and divers.
Regulations…
If you would like to know about the regulations for using set nets around New Zealand contact the Ministry of Fisheries (www.fish.govt.nz) or the Department of Conservation (www.doc.govt.nz).
What can you do?
Don't use set nets if you go fishing in the sea, use a fishing line instead.
And tell a friend to read this web page – then they will learn how to care for the Hector’s dolphin too!
If you see anyone using a set net in an area where it is banned phone 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224)
