The modeling of single-boat, mid-water trawl systems for fishing simulation

A mathematical model of single-boat, mid-water trawl system, together with a graphical interface have been created for training purposes. The model consists of separate components for the trawler and fishing gear. The trawler component considers the influence of wind and current and can be used to simulate trawlers in ordinary-speed and low-speed scenarios. The fishing gear component considers the towing warp, the otter board, and the fishing net. The model components are connected by coordinating boundary conditions. All trawling processes, including cruising, towing, and hauling and deploying the fishing net, can be simulated using this approach. Simulations have been undertaken based on a single-boat, mid-water trawler. The simulated trawler speed and turning circle under cruising conditions were compared to sea trials, and simulated trawl mouth height and trawl resistance to flume experiments. The hydrodynamic performance of a single-boat, mid-water trawl has been analyzed, showing that trends in fishing gear parameters together with towing speed and warp length are intuitively correct, but trawling speed is overestimated, which requires that the model component for the controllable pitch propeller be improved.