Methods

COMMERCIAL FISHING

WATERDANCE

HOW WE FISH

Our diverse fleet fishing using many methods to target different species and ensure seasonal changes can be followed to offer the best quality seafood to consumers. We work with scientists and the UK Government to find ways to reduce our environmental impact in innovative ways.

METHOD 1

BEAM TRAWLING

The beam trawl is one of the earliest forms of towed fishing gear. Waterdance trawlers use two-beam trawls towed from long derricks projecting over each side of the vessel. The beam trawl consists of a tubular steel beam supported by steel beam heads at each end. These beam heads have wide shoes at the bottom which slide over the seabed.

METHOD 2

GILL NETTING

Gill nets consist of a single layer of fine netting that is weighted at the bottom and supported at the top by floats attached to a rope headline so that the net hangs vertically in the water column. They can deployed on or above the seabed, as well as over wrecks.

METHOD 3

POTTING

Traps, in various forms of cages or baskets, have been used throughout the world for thousands of years to catch a wide variety of fish and shellfish. The traps can either by shot individually or more commonly in strings (fleets), where a number of pots are attached to one long rope and laid on the seabed, with a dhan or bouy to mark the location of each end of the fleet.

LOW EMISSIONS GEAR TRIAL

THE SUMWING PROJECT

Waterdance has been working with The Western Fish Producers’ Organisation and Seafish on a Low-Emission Gear Trial. The Sumwing trial’s primary aim was to evaluate whether this technology could be used on UK beam trawl vessels to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The Sumwing is a major innovation in beam trawl gear that has been designed to fly just off the seabed, reducing drag and therefore fuel use. Testing was carried out aboard Waterdance’s Margaret of Ladram with data showing a 42% saving in fuel consumption.

WaterdAnce

MEET OUR FLEET

We have over 20 boats based in Devon and Cornwall including beam trawlers, netters, and potters.

FRESHLY CAUGHT

WHAT WE CATCH

Our boats return most days with a fresh catch ensuring the best quality and eating experience. Species caught include Dover Sole, Plaice, Monkfish, Cuttlefish, Hake, Crab and Lobster.

SOUTH WEST

WHERE WE LAND

The South west has England’s most productive fishing ports. Waterdance has a strong presence within these fishing communities, investing to ensure a bright future for one of the region’s traditional industries.