Seining is a fishing technique that involves the use of a large net, also known as a seine, to catch fish or other marine organisms. The seine is typically made of strong, long-lasting materials such as nylon or cotton and is designed to be supported by floats and weights to ensure its proper placement and control during fishing operations. Seining is commonly practiced in both freshwater and saltwater environments, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans.
In the process of seining, the net is deployed in a controlled manner in a specific area of water, either by hand or with the help of boats. Once the net is in place, it is then pulled together from both ends to trap and enclose the fish within its mesh. This can result in a large number of fish being caught in a single haul, making seining an efficient fishing method for commercial and subsistence purposes.
Seining can be conducted in different variations, including purse seine, beach seine, and boat seine, depending on the specific requirements of the fishing operation and the targeted fish species. Purse seining involves using ropes to draw the bottom of the net together, creating a purse-like shape to contain the fish. Beach seining is typically conducted from the shoreline, whereas boat seining is performed from a vessel.
The use of seining as a fishing technique dates back centuries and has been practiced by various cultures worldwide. However, it is important to note that unsustainable or indiscriminate seining practices can lead to overfishing, habitat destruction, or the capture of unintended species (known as bycatch), which can have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
