Summary
Researchers tested modified hooks fitted with stiff wire appendages of different lengths (3.8 cm, 7.6 cm, and 11.4 cm) to determine whether they could reduce catch of yelloweye rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus) in the Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) fishery on the west coast of the United States. The 3.8 cm and 7.6 cm appendage hooks reduced yelloweye rockfish catches by about 28% and 45%, respectively, while not significantly reducing Pacific halibut catches compared with standard hooks. Additionally, most fish were captured within the first two hours of gear deployment, so shorter soak times may improve fishing efficiency while reducing the potential for depredation and bycatch mortality.