This device has undergone a series of intense mechanical trials in the first half of 2010 off the east coast of Australia. These trials were designed to ensure that the machine will function flawlessly under intense commercial conditions, and to identify any areas where mechanical improvements or refinements could be made. The trials were completed in April with the Underwater Baited Hook performing to expectations.
During the second half of 2010 a proof-of-concept testing of this device will take place in the waters off the coast of Uruguay later in the year. This country has the highest seabird mortality associated with pelagic longlining of any country in the world.Tests of the Underwater Baited Hook will illustrate its potential benefits against other widely used mitigation measures and are also expected to provide evidence that baits can be deployed at pre-set target depths and that bait retention on hooks is not affected by deployment underwater. The device has the potential to eliminate the mortality of seabirds associated with pelagic longlining, as well as to improve the conditions under which this type of fishing is undertaken.
It may also reduce the need for onboard independent observers to monitor compliance with mitigation requirements. For example, part of the control system for the Underwater Baited Hook, an onboard programmable logical controller, can also record operational data in the device’s control box, and this information can be used to assess compliance to requirements to set gear with the underwater setter.