The word "driftnetting" refers to a method of fishing where a net is dragged behind a boat to catch fish. The spelling of this word can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /drɪftnɛtɪŋ/. The "dr" sound is an initial consonant cluster made up of the "d" and "r" sounds. The "i" in "drift" is pronounced as /ɪ/, and the "-ing" at the end of the word is pronounced as /ɪŋ/. The "-net" in "driftnetting" is pronounced as /nɛt/.
Driftnetting is a fishing technique that involves the use of a large, open net known as a driftnet. It is commonly used by commercial fishermen to catch large quantities of fish, particularly pelagic species that swim close to the surface of the water, such as tuna and salmon.
The driftnet is typically set in the water and allowed to drift with the current, creating a wide wall-like barrier in the ocean. The net is designed to entangle the fish as they swim into it, trapping them until they can be retrieved by the fishermen. Driftnets can stretch for several miles in length, and they are usually set at different depths to increase the chances of catching the desired species.
However, driftnetting is considered highly controversial and ecologically damaging due to its widespread negative impacts on marine life. The indiscriminate nature of the practice means that not only the desired target species are caught but also significant amounts of bycatch, including dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other non-targeted fish species. Driftnets can often be lost or abandoned, leading to "ghost fishing" as the nets continue to trap and kill marine organisms long after they have been discarded.
Due to these detrimental effects, many countries and international organizations have imposed regulations or outright bans on driftnetting to protect marine ecosystems and conserve endangered species.
The word "driftnetting" is derived from the combination of two words: "drift" and "netting".
1. "Drift" originates from the Old English word "drifan" which means "to drive or be driven". Over time, this term evolved and incorporated the meaning of being carried along by currents or winds, without conscious steering. This sense of movement, particularly in relation to boats or fishing techniques, led to the use of "drift" in terms like "driftwood" or "drift mining".
2. "Netting" refers to the act of using nets, which comes from the verb "to net". This usage dates back to the late 15th century and is traceable to the Old English word "nett", meaning "net". Nets have long been employed for various purposes, including fishing.