This summer, our partner CCMAR kicked off a new initiative to tackle one of the biggest challenges in coastal fisheries: accidental bycatch of dolphins and other cetaceans in the Portuguese beach seine fishery.
In June, we started by talking directly with fishers across several beaches on the western coast. Through detailed questionnaires, we learned that bycatch rates vary from beach to beach—and identified at least one area where urgent action was needed.
With the summer season in full swing, we launched a pilot mitigation trial in this hotspot. Two vessels are now testing two different brands of pingers (acoustic deterrent devices), using the same experimental design.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll assess both the effectiveness of these pingers in reducing bycatch and their practicality for fishers. Just as importantly, we’re keeping close communication with the skippers who are voluntarily working alongside us. Their feedback is key to finding real-world solutions.
This is just the first step. Based on the results, we hope to expand these trials to other beaches and continue building partnerships with local fishing communities. Together, we can work toward more sustainable fisheries and safer seas for cetaceans.