As Icelandic pelagic vessel Beitir headed out for this year’s mackerel season, it sailed with a pair of Vónin’s fully controllable Twister trawl doors. For skipper Tómas Kárason, the impact was immediately noticeable.
‘We started to use these trawl doors from Vónin with an automatic steering system,’ he said, commenting that this advanced system is designed to improve the efficiency and control of trawling operations.
The Twister doors represent a leap forward in trawling technology. Unlike conventional doors, which require constant manual adjustment, these are equipped with sensors and actuators that automatically respond to changing conditions – depth, current, and vessel movement – ensuring optimal performance at all times.
For Beitir, the ability to maintain precise control over the trawl doors has proven invaluable.
‘This technology is a big help for surface trawling,’ Tómas Kárason said. ‘It allows precise control over the door’s spread and depth, making it easier to keep the trawl head line high in the water column – ideal for targeting fish close to the surface.‘
This level of control improves catch efficiency, and also reduces the strain on both crew and equipment.
Installing the new system aboard Beitir was a smooth process, and the crew quickly adapted to the new way of working. The benefits were clear from the first tow.
‘The automatic adjustments reduce the need for constant manual corrections, save fuel, and minimise gear damage,’ he said.
‘All while maintaining a consistent trawl depth. We are very happy with this new system. It helps a lot.’
The fully controllable Twister doors have a four-foil design, and an adjustable shutter system ensures stability and performance even in strong side currents and during tight maneuvers. For Beitir, this means more effective fishing – an advantage that’s hard to overstate.
