Solutions

Rounded hooks to save turtles - Modifying the shape of the hook could be one way of solving the significant accidental catches of sea turtles. Studies carried out using rounded hooks of a reasonable size have proven that catches of turtles could be reduced by between 65% and 90%. These hooks have also turned out to be more effective for catching swordfish, with an increase of up to 30%, and are less dangerous for the fishermen to handle, which could prevent numerous occupational accidents.

The replacement of the existing J-shaped hooks by new G-shaped hooks, which in other fisheries has been shown to have reduced the accidental catches and mortality rates of sea turtles. By testing different sizes of hooks, an optimum size can be determined which fulfils the proposal of protecting the turtles without having a detrimental effect on swordfish catches.
Setting the hooks at a depth where they are less accessible to sea turtles for reasons of temperature or visibility.
Establishing closed-seasons and restricted zones which guarantee that the areas and seasons that see the greatest congregations of sea turtles are avoided by the longline fleet.

Oceana is working to reduce accidental catches of sea turtles at both ends of their area of distribution: the coasts of America and the Mediterranean.