Fisheries Monitoring Technology Aboard the Ulsvaag II
CatchCam is an underwater camera system for fisheries monitoring designed to remove the guesswork from fishing. Most recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Anders Paulsen, a seasoned fisherman, about his experiences using CatchCam in the net of the shrimp trawler Ulsvaag II.
The interview was conducted by Ulf L., the distributor of SafetyNet Technologies’ (now rebranded as CatchCam Technologies) products in Norway.
Optimising Trawl Gear Performance with Underwater Footage
During the interview, Anders Paulsen explained how the underwater footage provided by the CatchCam camera system helped him identify some issues around the gear. In particular, around the sorting grid attachment. He shares: “I’ve actually loosened up the top panel. This allows for a better stretch in the bottom panel, making the grid more stable and efficient.”
It’s a small tweak with a significant impact on the trawling process. Skipper Anders goes on to explain how adjusting the trawl doors in relation to the lump can affect the rigging: “Before, I had the trawl doors about 60cm behind the lump. By adjusting the doors to 40 cm ahead, the geometry corrects itself. This also means the undernet stretches better, which is essential for the trawl to function optimally.”
CatchCam’s underwater footage played a key role in optimising these settings, demonstrating how fisheries monitoring technology can enhance both efficiency and environmental responsibility.
CatchCam camera set to watch how the belly mesh is rigged in the shrimp trawl.
Monitoring Shrimp Behaviour and Bycatch
Beyond gear adjustments, the CatchCam system provided valuable fisheries data collection on shrimp behaviour around the sorting grid.
“Unfortunately, the shrimp don’t pass through as smoothly as I had hoped. They often pile up in front of the grid”. These observations highlighted areas for potential improvements in the gear setup.
CatchCam camera footage from inside the shrimp trawl in the Oslo Fjord.
One unexpected discovery from CatchCam’s fisheries monitoring technology was the unexpected presence of jellyfish and a greater abundance of fish than previously assumed.
Skipper Anders Paulsen finalises the interview by sharing that: “CatchCam provides a unique insight into what’s happening underwater, and it’s truly eye-opening.”
CatchCam: Fisheries Monitoring Camera
The CatchCam system, developed by SafetyNet Technologies (now CatchCam Technologies), is undoubtedly becoming an indispensable tool for fishermen worldwide. Its ability to provide underwater footage of what’s happening beneath the waves has transformed the way they approach their work, enabling fishermen to make informed decisions that benefit both their catch and the environment.
Learn more about the underwater camera system ou our website or arrange a call with our Norwegian distributors Marine Ctrl at https://catchcam.no/
