Abstract
Based on the initial tests carried out in 2013 we carried out a follow up test at sea that evaluated the performance of the Semi-Circular Spreading Gear (SCSG) based on underwater video recordings, information collected from underwater acoustic sensors and catch comparison analysis between a traditional rockhopper gear and the tested semi-circle gear. The results showed that in general the SCSG functioned well as a ground gear. This is in good agreement with the conclusions from the earlier trials. Compared to the traditional rockhopper the SCSG showed to have similar spreading force capacity and fishing efficiency for cod. Further tests with the SCSG are necessary, but then in a commercial fishing situation. The tests should aim at improving the construction materials of the gear so that they stand commercial activity over a long period of time and at directly comparing the performance of the SCSG gear with a rockhopper gear over a high number of tows.
