Buddying Up

The problem of ghost fishing gear is a normal but unfortunate part of fishing when nets, pots and lines become lost. This is a simple reality of the fishing community working in a very harsh environment.The lost gear continues to catch marine life, as it is designed to do. It is clearly undesirable, and nobody benefits from ‘Ghost Gear’ being present in the ocean.

Unless removed from the sea this Ghost Gear continues in a vicious circle of catching marine life which in turn act as bait for larger creatures.

Ghost Fishing UK was set up by a team of dedicated divers to try to remove this lost equipment from the marine environment. It is a challenging and difficult task. Ghost gear can get entangled in reefs and on wrecks, and its removal can be complicated.

Ghost Fishing divers survey the site first and collect data on the ghost gear and any animals trapped, alive and dead. This data is critical to formulate a safe and efficient recovery plan.

The removal technique involves divers attaching lifting bags to the gear. The ghost gear is then cut free as close to the seabed as possible. Great care is needed to ensure that the diver does not become entangled with the equipment. This involves a high degree of teamwork, coordination and discipline.

Ghost Fishing UK is a registered charity who could really do with your help. Removing ghost gear from the environment and disposing of/re-cycling it is expensive. Please consider donating to their cause.