Large-scale experiment shows that nylon leaders reduce shark bycatch and benefit pelagic longline fisheries

Catch rates of blue marlin (Makaira nigricans), snake mackerel (Gempylus serpens), and sharks were lower when nylon monofilament leaders, instead of wire leaders, were used on pelagic longline gear, but bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and black marlin (Makaira indica) catch rates increased. There was no effect on yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares). Nylon leaders also had higher bite-off rates than the wire leaders.