According to the scientists a new, hi-tech global tracking device could revolutionise commercial fishing industry operations. The devise has been successfully launched after a series of successful trials across the South West of England. Succorfish has worked closely with Seafish to design its newest and most advanced vessel monitoring system; the SC2.
The device has been developed exclusively for the fishing industry and will allow vessels to accurately map and monitor their position using dual GPRS/GSM software to within one metre, provides closer access to marine protected areas. It will improve and increase overall inshore fishing activity. The low cost device complies with current UK fishing laws and uses real time satellite and mobile phone technology, as well as online tracking software, to monitor and record the course and position of vessels via up-to-the-minute reporting.
Nick Prust, SWIFA Chairman and owner of one of the vessels that took part in the trials commented that this the device that the industry has been looking for and the system will be a real asset to fisherman regardless of their fishing methods. It will give us continued access to fishing grounds with spatial and temporal restrictions whilst allowing us to co-exist alongside newly proposed MPA’s.
George Henricks, Commercial Director of Succorfish said that the device has been successfully participated in the inshore VMS trial. All of those parties have a common goal in that they want to see the long-term security of both the marine environment and the livelihoods of the fishermen. Therefore, by designing and developing a product like the SC2, we can directly support the industry and make huge strides towards achieving its goal. Scientists said that the SC2 has been developed in conjunction with Seafish and CEFAS following a 12 months pilot project to monitor the UK’s inshore fishing activity.
