Electrofishing

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Scientists conduct mapping using electrofishing.
Fisherman with protective equipment and backpack electric fishing device. The cathode hangs from the generator as a black cable into the water. The anode is the white rod with a net .

Electric fishing (also known as pulse fishing ) is a fishing method in which electric current is used to catch the fish. With the help of an electric fishing device, a direct current or impulse current is passed through the water, and if used properly, the fish in the circuit swim to the anode , where they can be collected.

Since the animals are relatively easy to catch with this catching method under certain conditions and, if used incorrectly, there is a potential risk for both the fish and the user, electric fishing is subject to strict regulations.

history

The fact that electricity can be used for fishing was discovered by accident in Germany in 1910 when a 110-volt power line broke. The development of usable direct and impulse electric fishing equipment began only after 1948 and continues to this day. With the use of newer electronics, the construction of small and light electric fishing gear became possible, which led to the fact that the use of electric fishing in inland fishing has become an integral part of fishing technology in many countries.

Germany

In Germany, electric fishing is only possible under special conditions. This includes the examination as an electric fisherman, a permit from the fishing authorities and compliance with the VDE regulations. In addition, some basic physical and physiological knowledge is required in order to be able to practice electrofishing successfully and properly.

Electric fishing under conservation aspects

Electric fishing is used for scientific fishing but also in professional fishing, since the fish are not killed if used properly. Electric fishing enables fish stocks to be recorded and examined quickly and gently. It is particularly suitable for waters that cannot be fished satisfactorily with other fishing methods.

Electrofishing is most commonly used for the following purposes:

  1. Inventory for scientific purposes,
  2. Fishing of waters for stock control,
  3. for catching spawning fish, for example grayling, sea trout or salmon for stripping,
  4. Determination of the extent and causes of fish mortality,
  5. Fishing from waters threatened by dehydration,
  6. Removal of fish from ponds that are used as spawning grounds for endangered amphibian species,
  7. to save fish stocks from bodies of water that are to / have to be drained temporarily or permanently (e.g. for construction or renovation measures, for cleaning factory sewers, etc.)

literature

  • Denzer, Hans Werner: The electric fishing . Swiss beard, Stuttgart 1986.
  • Collar, egon; Halsband, Inge: Bibliography on electrofishing, its basics and the dangers of electrical current . Inst. For coastal u. Inland fishing d. Federal Research Institute für Fischerei , Hamburg 1980 (publications by the Institute for Coastal and Inland Fisheries Hamburg; No. 69).

Web links

Commons : Electrofishing  - collection of pictures, videos and audio files