This project proposes to evaluate the effectiveness of zinc/graphite hook treatment on catch rates and shark depredation in the gulf of america commercial reef fish bottom longline fishery (BLL)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) awarded Mote Marine Laboratory, Inc. a $208,529 cooperative agreement on June 1, 2026, under the Cooperative Research Program (CFDA 11.472) to evaluate the effectiveness of zinc/graphite hook treatment on shark depredation in the Gulf of America commercial reef fish bottom longline fishery.

The project tests shark deterrent technology in real-world fishing conditions using at least two primary study vessels to compare bycatch rates. Researchers will deploy hooks treated with zinc/graphite deterrents, dummy deterrents, and untreated hooks in equal proportions, with color-marked longline clips enabling video reviewers to distinguish between treatments. Captains select bait type, hook size, and leader strength; researchers analyze electronic monitoring video footage, detailed catch data, and fishing activity locations to assess deterrent effectiveness. The work aims to mitigate shark interactions, reduce incidental captures, and alleviate financial and operational burdens on commercial fishers.

The period of performance runs from June 1, 2026, through November 30, 2027, with work performed in Sarasota, Florida. The Cooperative Research Program funds partnerships between the fishing industry, fishermen, and federal and university scientists to collect fisheries information supporting single-species, multispecies, and ecosystem assessment models.

By testing this technology in real-world conditions, IT aims to mitigate shark interactions, reducing incidental captures and alleviating financial and operational burdens on commercial fishers. At least two primary study vessels would facilitate the comparison of shark bycatch rates using deterrent devices. Hooks with zinc/graphite deterrents, dummy deterrents, and untreated hooks would be randomly deployed in equal proportions. Captains would select bait type, hook size, and leader strength, with bait types and hook sizes recorded at the trip level through detailed electronic monitoring review. Researchers would analyze electronic monitoring video footage, detailed catch data, and fishing activity locations to assess the effectiveness of shark deterrents in the commercial reef fish BLL fishery. Color-marked longline clips would enable video reviewers to distinguish between different hook treatments, a method successfully employed during a 2022 NOAA brep project to assess the impact of hook size on bycatch.