ViewpointOut of sight but not out of mind: Harmful effects of derelict traps in selected U.S. coastal waters

- Traps that are abandoned or lost during fishing are pervasive and persistent.
- Derelict fishing traps (DFT) harm organisms and habitat, and cause economic losses.
- We suggest a DFT management strategy that emphasizes a collaborative approach.
- Studies are needed to examine mortality of fishery stocks and regional challenges.
- Derelict traps and ghost fishing are preventable with the right policies.

There is a paucity of data in the published literature on the ecological and economic impacts of derelict fishing traps (DFTs) in coastal ecosystems. We synthesized results from seven NOAA-funded trap fisheries studies around the United States and determined that DFT-caused losses to habitat and harvestable annual catch are pervasive, persistent, and largely preventable. Based on this synthesis, we identified key gaps to fill in order to better manage and prevent DFTs. We conclude with suggestions for developing a U.S. DFT management strategy including: (1) targeting studies to estimate mortality of fishery stocks, (2) assessing the economic impacts of DFTs on fisheries, (3) collaborating with the fishing industry to develop solutions to ghost fishing, and (4) examining the regional context and challenges resulting in DFTs to find effective policy solutions to manage, reduce, and prevent gear loss.