SafetyNet Technologies has introduced an innovative tool to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of trawl fishing: the Warp Attachment for the CatchCam camera. This device allows fishermen to monitor their trawl doors in action, providing valuable insights into their performance.
Monitoring trawl doors is a critical task for commercial fishermen. Properly set doors ensure efficient fuel use and optimal fishing. However, attaching equipment to these doors is no simple feat. Tom Rossiter from SafetyNet Technologies explains, “It’s something that started with a number of fishermen asking: ‘How can I see my doors in action?’”
After extensive trials, the team at SafetyNet developed the Warp Attachment. “We came up with this new system that can fit on warp, wires, frames, stanchions—you name it. It’s a single point that you just clamp onto. It allows you to have the camera looking at the trawl doors, and you can see how they perform,” says Rossiter.
Correctly adjusted trawl doors are essential for any trawl fisherman. If the doors are not set right, fuel consumption increases, and fishing efficiency decreases. While sensor systems provide data on spread, they lack precision regarding the angle of attack and ground contact. Using an underwater camera to monitor trawl door performance can help fishermen fine-tune their setup.
The Warp Attachment allows fishermen to film the trawl doors in action, offering a unique perspective on their movement, position, and interaction with the seafloor. This visibility helps optimise trawling operations and maximise catch.
Easily mounted to any diameter from 10 to 35mm, the Warp Attachment has been popular since its launch, with initial units selling out in the first week. “It’s not just about doors. You can add it to a scallop dredge or razor dredges as well, because those are incredibly difficult places to do any filming,” shares Rossiter. This versatility makes the Warp Attachment a valuable tool for various types of fishing gear.
Join Tom Rossiter and Ian Wightman aboard the FV Eilidh Anne in Scotland, for a quick guide of the Warp Attachment, in the video below:
Rossiter highlights the environmental and economic benefits of the Warp Attachment. “Fuel efficiency is one aspect, but there is a lot of pressure now on the industry to reduce the impact of fishing gear on the seabed. When you do that, you save on fuel, address environmental concerns, and probably wear your gear less, so it lasts longer.” Efficient gear means better fishing. “You need to make sure your gear is fishing because if it’s not fishing, you’re catching nothing. You want to be as efficient as you can while also being environmentally friendly,” says Rossiter.
The CatchCam camera is not a one-off resolution. It provides users with clear evidence of what is happening underwater so that they can keep learning and improving their fishing techniques. Rossiter adds, “The world of fishing is changing fast. As a fisherman, you’ve got to adapt quickly, and CatchCam gives you a head start.”
Listen to the podcast episode below with Oliver from The Fishing Daily, and Tom Rossiter from SafetyNet Technologies. Below, they dive deeper into the newly launched Warp Attachment for the CatchCam camera and its environmental impact. Access the full interview below.
SafetyNet Technologies is attending the Scottish Skipper Expo in Aberdeen in May 2024. See this technology in person at booth E7. You can also contact the team to start deploying CatchCam straight away at enquiries@sntech.co.uk.
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