Discards and bycatch: A review of wasted fishing

Abstract

Bycatch and discards are a significant issue for global fisheries, with discards considered unnecessary mortality and wasted fishing. Discards have declined due to more selective gear and changes in regulations, but data on discard rates and species remains challenging to collect. Addressing discards is crucial to minimize food waste and increase seafood production. We provide an up-to-date overview of research on wasted fishing through bycatch and discards since 2012, including pots/traps, trawls, gillnets, and lines. By highlighting the challenges of collecting data on discard rates, species, and reasons, we emphasize the need for an adaptive approach to monitoring and reducing discards. Our review provides an important update on the current state of research on wasted fishing and highlights ongoing knowledge gaps in this area, indicating a need for continued efforts towards sustainable fisheries management.

Keywords: Commercial fish; Pots; Seine; Trawl; Unwanted catch.