The spelling of "drift net" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), where "drift" is pronounced /drɪft/ and "net" is pronounced /nɛt/. The word "drift" refers to something that moves along with the current or wind, and "net" refers to a mesh fabric used to catch fish or other aquatic creatures. So, a "drift net" is a type of fishing net that is allowed to float in water and move along with the current to capture fish.
A drift net is a type of fishing net that is actively or passively drifted along in the water by means of prevailing currents or the motion of the vessel it is attached to, in order to capture fish or other marine organisms. It is a large, curtain-like net that is typically made of fine mesh material and floats vertically or horizontally in the water column.
Drift nets are commonly used in commercial fishing practices, especially in open waters and oceanic regions, where large quantities of fish are targeted. The nets are deployed for extended periods of time, allowing them to cover large areas and catch fish that swim into them. The mesh size of a drift net is designed to be smaller than the target species to prevent the fish from escaping.
Despite their efficiency, the use of drift nets has been associated with various environmental concerns and impacts. Indiscriminate in nature, drift nets often entangle not only the intended catch but also non-target species, such as marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles. This has led to significant bycatch and incidental mortalities, contributing to ecosystem imbalance and endangering vulnerable marine species.
To address these issues, many countries and international organizations have implemented regulations and bans on drift net fishing, particularly those using large-scale high seas drift nets. The implementation of more sustainable and selective fishing methods, such as the use of smaller mesh sizes and alternative fishing gear, helps mitigate the negative impacts of drift net fishing on marine ecosystems.
The word "drift net" has a straightforward etymology. "Drift" comes from the Old English word "drifan", which means "to drive" or "to push along". "Net" comes from the Old English word "nette", which refers to a device made of woven threads used for catching fish or other animals. Combined, "drift net" refers to a type of fishing net that is allowed to float freely in the water, carried by natural currents, to catch fish that swim into the net.