Download AEBR 299 Historical reconstruction and characterisation of spatially explicit historical set net fishing effort data

Spatially explicit set net fishing effort back to 1931 was predicted by combining data on current and historical set net fishing. The results reflect that up to 1960, set netting was restricted the west coast of the North Island, Hauraki Gulf, Marlborough Sounds, and Banks Peninsula. The use of nylon monofilament nets, other gear improvements, and incentives to fish for species such as rig (Mustelus lenticulatus) resulted in the expansion of set netting across New Zealand and further offshore.