A fishery protection vessel is a specialized type of maritime vessel primarily designed and employed for the purpose of protecting and monitoring fishing activities in coastal areas and international waters. These vessels are typically operated by government agencies or coast guards to enforce fishing regulations, combat illegal activities, and ensure sustainability of marine resources.
Fishery protection vessels play a crucial role in safeguarding marine ecosystems and preventing overfishing. Equipped with advanced surveillance technology such as radar systems, electronic monitoring devices, and satellite communication tools, they are capable of detecting and tracking fishing vessels, monitoring their activities, and identifying potential breaches of fishing regulations.
These vessels often conduct patrols and inspections to verify fishing permits, monitor catch quotas, and enforce compliance with fishing laws. They can enforce regulations regarding fishing gear, such as the use of specific nets or size limits for fish caught. Fishery protection vessels also work to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU), including the interception of vessels engaged in such activities.
In addition to their monitoring and enforcement functions, fishery protection vessels are frequently involved in search and rescue operations, responding to distress calls from fishing vessels or other mariners in need of assistance.
Overall, fishery protection vessels are essential for maintaining sustainable fishing practices, preserving marine biodiversity, and ensuring the long-term viability of the world's fish stocks.
