Purse Seine Guidebook
Mobulid being released using a sorting grid. Photo: Unknown
If large mobulids (and other fish, e.g., moonfish) can’t be released directly from the brailer (e.g., by tipping one edge), then the animals can be returned to the sea using a piece of net, plastic tarp, or canvas that can be lifted by the crane. The material should be ready on deck before brailing, and when a large animal is encountered, fishers can place it on the material, which is then hooked up to the crane and lifted overboard.
Mobulid being released using a sorting grid. Photo: ISSF/ATA fleet
A new BRD is the mobulid sorting grid, which features wide spaces and can be placed over the unloading hatch or hopper. This allows tuna to pass through while the ray remains on top of the grid. The grid is then lifted with a crane to release the large animal (see “Manta Ray Sorting Grid Instructions for Purse-Seine Vessels”).
