This project seeks to determine if the hookpod alone would reduce the accidental capture rates of seabirds on hauling gear by comparing hookpod gear to standard fishing gear

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded Hookpod LIMITED a Cooperative Agreement for $328,853 on July 15, 2026, under the Cooperative Research Program (CFDA 11.472) to test the efficacy of Hookpod devices in reducing seabird bycatch on hauling gear.

The project will conduct comparative fishing trials aboard three vessels to determine whether a Hookpod attached one meter from the fishing hook reduces accidental seabird capture rates compared to standard fishing gear. Testing will occur at two different times of day: 1.5 hours prior to sunset and night setting, using no branchline weights and blue-dyed bait. Work will be performed in Great Britain, United Kingdom, with a period of performance ending May 31, 2027.

The Cooperative Research Program facilitates partnerships between the fishing industry, fishermen, and federal and university scientists to collect fisheries information that strengthens single-species, multispecies, and ecosystem assessment models.

The project would conduct testing involving three vessels to compare efficacies of fishing with a hookpod attached 1 meter from the fishing hook at two different times of day (1.5 hours prior to sunset, and night setting) with no branchline weights and blue-dyed bait.