Triggers of fishing gear loss incidents in small-scale fisheries in Peru

This study sought to identify the causes of gear loss and determine the main fishing grounds where losses occurred. Data were collected between 2003 and 2023 from 17 ports along the Peruvian coast. Of 8742 fishing sets analyzed, bottom longlines reported the most incidents, (n = 456 with 38,130 hooks lost) of gear loss. The reported main causes of gear loss across all gear types assessed included bad weather, ship interactions, entangling/snagging gear on rocky bottom, and wildlife interactions. From wildlife interactions, entanglement of large cetaceans, was the leading cause of gear loss. This study provides valuable insights into the causes and impacts of gear loss by Peruvian fisheries and highlights the need for more robust monitoring toward fostering sustainable fishing practices.