From surface to mid-water: Is the swordfish longline fishery “hitting rock bottom”? A case study in southern Italy

► We characterize the evolution of a pelagic longline fishery in southern Italy. ► A rapid change in fishing practice occurred between 2007 and 2011. ► Fishing depth increased from 10-100 m to 100-500 m and the soak time by around 15 h. ► An increase in swordfish CPUE and a change in the catch composition were detected. ► The change in fishing practice could be an indicator of the state of the target stock.