saltwater fishing

Saltwater fishing encompasses a wide range of operations, from small, traditional endeavors to large-scale commercial fleets. The Law of the Sea establishes exclusive economic zones (EEZs), granting coastal countries control over fisheries within 200 miles of their shores. This regulation often designates specific areas for small-scale fishermen near the coast and larger vessels further offshore.

Common sea-fishing methods include:
* Surrounding nets: Such as purse seines and lamparas, used to encircle schooling fish like tuna and herring.1
* Lift nets: Stationary or movable nets used in limited quantities, often with lights to attract fish.2
* Gill nets and drift nets: Used to catch pelagic and bottom-dwelling fish, sometimes in very long arrays.3
* Traps: Including pots, weirs, and pound nets, used for various fish and crustaceans.4

Abundant schooling species like herring and sardines form a significant portion of saltwater catches, often processed into fish meal and oil. Other important catches include cod, salmon, flatfish, tuna, and sharks.5