Best Practices Resources

In collaboration with industry, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders, SFP supports the development and implementation of practical solutions that help fisheries reduce interactions with endangered, threatened, and protected (ETP) species.

While gear improvements can be one of the most effective strategies for preventing bycatch, implementing best practices with existing fishing gear can also significantly reduce injury and mortality when interactions occur.

The links on this page provide resources and guidance and education on the safe handling and release of protected species that become hooked, entangled, or otherwise incidentally captured. They include information about proper techniques and conservation efforts for safely handling and releasing species such as sea turtles, marine mammals, rays, sharks, seabirds, and other protected species. By promoting consistent use of proven handling and release practices, fisheries can improve the survival of incidentally captured animals and support broader efforts to reduce the impacts of fishing on vulnerable marine species.

This library is updated regularly, as new resources become available. Entries are arranged by species and gear type and include both management requirements and general guidance.