Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Fisheries and

for a world without hunger Aquaculture Department

Fishing Gear Types

Trolling lines

Trolling lines

Characteristics
Overview A trolling line consists of a line with natural or artificial baited hooks and is trailed by a vessel near
the surface or at a certain depth. Several lines are often towed at the same time, by using outriggers to keep the
lines away from the wake of the vessel. The line are hauled by hand or with small winches. A piece of rubber
is often included in each line as a shock absorber.
Handling Equipment Hauling trolling lines might be mechanized. Outriggers (made from wood or metal)
should be light and reasonably flexible.
Vessel Overview Trollers.

Fish Operation A number of lures or baited hooks are towed astern at a speed depending on the target species,
from 2.3 knots up to at least 7, the fish being hooked after snapping at the lure and held by the mouth until
they can be brought aboard as the line is hauled in.
Target Species Small fish (e.g. mackerel) and big pelagic fish as tuna.

Water Area Overview All over the world.

Gear Environment Trolling lines are towed near the surface, or a certain distance below it. They are employed
in marine and in freshwater fishing.
Impacts

Species Non-targeted fish is seldom captured; it is a very selective fishing method.

FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department