Modified Purse Seines to Reduce Seabird Bycatch in a Chilean Reduction Fishery
Modified Purse Seines to Reduce Seabird Bycatch in a Chilean Reduction Fishery
Chilean purse-seine fisheries comprise approximately 500 artisanal vessels and have historically experienced high levels of seabird bycatch, particularly involving Pink-footed shearwaters and Black-browed albatrosses. To address this issue, a Modified Purse Seine (MPS) was developed through a collaborative effort among the fishing industry, BirdLife International, and net manufacturers to reduce the risk of seabird entanglement.
The MPS design targets sections of the net where seabird entanglement is most likely to occur. Key modifications include the introduction of a novel buoy-mounting system, adjustments to mesh size, and the removal of excess netting material. Trials of the modified gear demonstrated a 98% reduction in the bycatch of diving seabirds without affecting the catch of target species. In addition to its conservation benefits, the modified design reduced material requirements, resulting in cost savings for fishers. This innovation was recognized as one of the leading environmental initiatives in Latin America in 2017.
Through a project led by BirdLife International and supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), five vessels have already implemented these gear modifications. The proposed project will expand these efforts by upgrading an additional five artisanal purse-seine vessels targeting sardine and anchovy, advancing the transition toward a fleet-wide adoption of Modified Purse Seines in south-central Chile.
In addition to gear modifications, the project will deliver training workshops for vessel captains and crew members. These workshops will provide instruction on the structural modifications required for the gear, as well as best practices for implementation, maintenance, and ongoing performance to ensure effective and durable seabird bycatch mitigation.
The project is expected to be implemented between August 2026 and September 2027.
Update
September 2026: This project continues to move forward with an updated timeline set to conclude September 2027.
A key component of the project is the modification of five artisanal purse-seiners to incorporate Modified Purse Seine (MPS) gear. Preparatory work is expected to begin in September 2026, when the sub-contracted net-maker, Servicios Kranet, will transfer the required netting materials and staff in preparation for the gear modifications. Modification of the vessels is scheduled to begin in October 2026, with the first three MPS gears expected to be completed and delivered between October and December 2026. The remaining two MPS gears are anticipated to be completed and delivered between January and February 2027.
In parallel, preparations are underway for a series of technical workshops to support knowledge sharing and engagement with the local fishing industry. The first technical workshop is planned for October 2026 and will target stakeholders within the fishing industry in the Biobío Region of south-central Chile. The workshops, which will be held in the city of Valdivia, in the Los Ríos Region of south-central Chile, will provide an opportunity to share technical information, support engagement with fishers and industry stakeholders, and help advance adoption and understanding of the modified gear.
Together, these activities will support the project’s broader objective of advancing practical fishing solutions while engaging local industry stakeholders throughout the implementation process.