Sustainable Hoki fishing using Precision practices are essential for the future of New Zealand’s fishing industry. Ocean Bounty, episode 9 on New Zealand’s TV 3 showcased just how important sustainable fishing is for the future of this industry, and how it can have a general impact on the quality of fish itself. Here at Newflands we pride ourselves on sustainable practices and overall product quality, and we were pleased to see how Kiwi innovations are continuing to improve and provide sustainable practices within our fishing industry in this episode, and we can safely say our products live up to our values.
The show introduced viewers to Sam Hayes, captain of a commercial fishing boat, who works alongside ‘Moana’, a large New Zealand seafood company, by providing them with fresh seafood daily. Throughout the episode, Sam excitedly explained and showed viewers the new innovative technology fishermen like him are starting to use to ensure their motto of ‘Ti Arki’ meaning to ‘guard’ and ‘to look after’ is being lived up to.
So, what is this new innovative technology you ask?
Hoki Precision food harvesting (PSH) is a new trawling system that ensures reduction of mortality in the unintended catch. This means fish that are too small or unwanted species of fish can be returned the into the ocean safely and unharmed, making fishing sustainable for future generations. The trawling system is made from Kevlar and Resin, making it similar to a bulletproof vest, and very durable in the water.
How does it work?
PSH in simple form works by allowing fish to swim straight to the boat in an aquarium-like environment. For example, once the PSH system submerges into the water, the ‘bag’ opens as a result of the water pressure flowing through the holes dotted around the bag. Through this process, it begins to create a pocket or ‘aquarium’ like environment for the fish to swim around throughout the three to four-hour trawl. The holes in the bag not only keep the flow of water running through, but are also designed to enable undersized fish to swim out prior to lifting the bag out of the water. By controlling the water flow inside the trawl environment, it means by the end, the Hoki fish will have low fatigue, low stress, and no bruising or scaring which makes for a higher quality catch. When it comes time to bring the fish on deck, the PSH system is tied in the middle (almost like a Santa sack of fish and water), the fish are tipped out of the bag with the water. It is important for the water to be retained on the boat, ensuring the fish can keep their gills wet during the sorting stage, meaning unwanted fish can be returned to the ocean alive and well. With the PSH system, there is relief in knowing that the fish caught is always going to be of top quality as there is no bruising or crushing occurring to the fish during the trawl, so the fishermen find happiness in knowing the fish arriving on deck are healthy and immediately ready for processing.
The aim of the PSH system is to ensure sustainable practices, so fish stocks remain plentiful, Hoki precision harvesting ensures the quality stays high, and there will be enough fish in our oceans for our future fishing industries. This, in turn, helps to ensure jobs are still available for younger generations, as well as fresh seafood still being available to supply us with healthy omega oils in ours and our furbaby’s diets. We need to take care of our oceans and the life that lives in it. To make the most of it, we have to be sustainable, and have that focus on the quality of product and focus on improving the future.
Here at Newflands, it’s incredibly important to us to ensure that the Hoki fish we are using in our products to improve the quality of life of your fur babies, do not suffer to provide this solution. All of our Hoki is Marine Stewardship Council approved, giving you that peace of mind.