Use of Square Mesh in New England´s Groundfishery

As attempts to manage New England´s groundfishery by mesh size regulations become more refined, interest in use of square mesh sections in nets has increased. To determine if the effects of use of square mesh seen in Europe hold true in New England´s mixed species fishery, two studies have been undertaken. A short study in Massachusetts was completed in the summer of 1986 while a larger study in Maine is is underway at the time of this writing. Study techniques and preliminary findings are given here. To date, the improved selectivity of square mesh seen in Europe has not been shown in in New England. However, improved catch rates and consistant observation of lower discard rates indicate that further study is warranted.