Reduction of seal-induced catch and gear damage by modification of trap-net design: Design principles for a seal-safe trap net

A trap-net modification reduced seal-induced [Grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and Ringed seal (Phoca hispida botnica)] catch and gear damage in the northern Baltic Sea trap-net fishery for salmon (Salmo salar) and whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus). Target catch remained the same or increased in four of five modified traps.