Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Field Guidebook on
Philippine Fishing Gears
Fishing Gears in Estuaries

Harold Monteclaro
Kazuhiko Anraku
Satoshi Ishikawa
Editors

Field Guidebook on
Philippine Fishing Gears
Fishing Gears in Estuaries

Editors
Harold Monteclaro
Kazuhiko Anraku
Satoshi Ishikawa

ISBN 978-4-906888-31-3
Published by:
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto,603-8047 Japan

Copyright © 2017
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto,603-8047 Japan
andInstitute of Marine Fisheries and Oceanology, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of thePhilippines Visayas, Miagao, 5023 Iloilo, Philippines
All Rights Reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic ormechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without
permission in writing from the publishers.

Suggested Citation:
Monteclaro H., Anraku K. and Ishikawa S. 2017. Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears: FishingGears in Estuaries. Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, Kyoto, Japan, 159 p.
For correspondence: hmmonteclaro@up.edu.phACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This research and publication was funded by the Research Institute for Humanity andNature (RIHN), Kyoto, Japan through RIHN Project No. 14200061. We also acknowledge
the support provided by the University of the Philippines Visayas.
We are greatly indebted to the many Akeanon fishers and their families who welcomed
us in their homes during the conduct of this study. We also thank our enumerators,
fisherman-cooperators, and field coordinators for their valuable help. Illustrations inthis book were done by Mr. John Rheo dela Cruz and Mr. Roberto Lacsamana. One of
the main authors of this book, Harold Monteclaro, received a Research Fellowshipfrom RIHN which allowed him to finish this work.

Table of Contents
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Chapter 2. Stationary fishing gears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Shrimp trap (Tigbacoe) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.2 Tidal trap (Taba) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.3 Fish corral (Taba) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.4 Filter net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2.4.1 Winged type (Saluran) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
2.4.2 Non-winged, deep-water type (Tangab) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
2.4.3 Non-winged, shallow-water type (Tangab) . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
2.5 Lift net, lighted (Bintahan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
2.6 Lift net, baited (Batak-batak) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
2.7 Barrier net (Sagpang) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Chapter 3. Non-stationary fishing gears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
3.1 Pots (Panggal, Timing, Bubo) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
3.2 Crab liftnet (Bintol) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
3.3 Gillnets (Panti) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
3.4 Trammel net (Pakalot, Palubog) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
3.5 Drive-in net (Ugnat) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
3.6 Drive-in net (Sigbi) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
3.7 Seine (Hila-hila, Panabyosan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
3.8 Push net (Sagudsong) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
3.9 Net with shelter (Gango) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
3.10 Line fishing (Taplik, Tiwtiw, Kitang) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
3.11 Scoop net (Panadyap hipon, Sibot) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
3.12 Dredge (Sudsud) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
3.13 Modified scythe (Karet) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
3.14 Spear (Pana) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Chapter 4. Guide to conducting field work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Authors’ Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Explanatory Notes
Abbreviations and Symbols UsedØ

- Diameter

PA- Polyamide

PE- Polyethelyne

HDPE - High Density Polyethylene

Classifying bamboo poles
Class

Diameter at base

1st class~ 40 cm

2nd class- 30 to 35 cm

3rd class- 28 to 30 cm

4th class- 15 to 18 cm

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Chapter 1
Introduction
Harold Monteclaro, Kazuhiko Anraku
and Satoshi Ishikawa

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Fisheries play a key role in providing food and livelihood in coastal communities. Allover the world, fishers employ diverse methods to catch fish. The choice of a fishingmethod and its subsequent success and fishing efficiency are influenced by several major factors, namely the environment (e.g., fishing ground characteristics, weather, climate), biota (e.g., fish population, distribution, behaviour), and man (e.g., technology,
machineries, local culture).

In a tropical country such as the Philippines, there exists a wide variety of aquatic ecosystems such as lotic and lentic environments, estuaries and wetlands, seagrass beds,
mangrove forests, coral reefs, beach and tidal areas, pelagic, benthic, and oceanic environments. Each ecosystem is a unique habitat with distinct biophysical processes present in each area. Obviously, fishing gears and methods used in a particular ecosystem
are quite different from those being used in another habitat. Because of the great variety of fishery resources that are being exploited in different types of habitat, we hope
to document fishing activities according to the type of tropical aquatic ecosystem.

As an initial publication, this book is prepared to document the various fishing gears
and methods that are being employed in a tropical estuary. An estuary is a body of water where freshwater and seawater meet and is one of the most productive ecosystems in the world. This habitat has unique plant and animal communities that include
mangrove forests, seagrass beds and a variety of euryhaline species that have adapted
to brackish water.
2Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

This book is a compilation of fishing gears and methods that are employed by small
scale fishers in a tropical estuarine environment. In the Philippines, more than 1.6 million Filipinos depend on the fishing industry for livelihood. Of this number, about 85%
belong to the municipal fisheries sector. The municipal fisheries sector is composed offishers that conduct fishing operations either without the use of boats or with the useof boats less than 3 GT in size.

What are the objectives of this book?

The overall aim of this book is to provide the reader a broad understanding of biological, ecological, economic and social aspects of fisheries science. Specifically, this bookaims to document the fishing gears and methods used in an estuary, with New Washington-Batan estuaries, Aklan, Philippines as an example. By the time you have readthis book we hope that you will appreciate and understand:1. how the physical processes of an estuary influence the choice and success offishing methods,
2. how fish biology and behavior affect fishing gear efficiency, and3. how to conduct field work related to capture fisheries.

Why is this work significant?

This book identifies fishing gears and methods specific to a particular aquatic ecosystem. It provides information on the possible ecological and social implications of theiruse. Through this work, we hope to contribute in the dissemination of knowledge
about capture fisheries and its role in fisheries management. Effective fisheries management requires clear objectives and decision-making process supported by best scientific advice. We hope that this work can assist local governments and fishery managers in instituting management strategies and measures that will ensure sustainable useof our aquatic resources.
3

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Overview of the New Washington-Batan estuaries

The New Washington-Batan estuary is a body of water that borders the municipalities
of New Washington, Batan and Altavas, all of Aklan Province. A number of tributaries
transport freshwater into the estuary while seawater enters during high tide. During
low tide, water recedes into the Sibuyan Sea. The estuary is relatively shallow. The area
near the estuary’s mouth, sometimes called Batan Bay, is about 10-20 m deep while
the Lagatik River and Tinagong Dagat are about 5 m deep. The upstream areas are often about 1-2 m deep at low tide.

A map showing the
New Washington-

Lagatik River

Batan estuaries. Theseestuaries are located innorthern Panay Island,

Batan Bay

Tinagong
Dagat

western central
Philippines.

The estuary is fringed by mangrove trees. Typical mangrove
trees include Rhizophora, Avicennia and Sonneratia species. Nypa
are also found in the inner sections especially along river banks.

In some areas of the estuary, seagrass beds are present although sedimentation is aserious threat for these estuarine habitats.
4

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

The fisheries in the New Washington-Batan estuaries

A

B

C

D
The estuary supports aquaculture activities such as A) fishpond culture of
shrimps and milkfish, B-C) oyster and mussel culture, and D) fish cage culture.
Fishpond picture by IA-CFOS, UP Visayas.

A common sight in the estuary. A stationary fishing gear operator may own fish cages
where he cultures grouper, snapper or other species. After hauling catch from the fishing gear, the expensive fish and invertebrates are sold to fish brokers while the small
and juvenile ones, often with low commercial value, are used to feed the cultured fish.
5

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Like many estuarine areas in the country, the primary fisheries are the shrimps, crabs
and mullets. Other fishery resources are sergestid shrimps, rabbitfishes, gobies, groupers and snappers. Local fishers employ several fishing methods to exploit these fishery resources although only municipal fishing gears are allowed to operate because theestuary is considered as a municipal fishing ground.

The fishing gears in the estuary are best classified as stationary or non-stationary. Stationary fishing gears include the shrimp traps, tidal traps, fish corrals, filter nets, lift
nets and barrier nets. Except barrier nets, all other stationary fishing gears are primarily made of bamboo and netting. The bamboo poles that serve as framework of thesestationary gears are staked into the muddy or sandy substrate making these gears fixedin place.

The presence of a large number of stationary fishing gears in the New
Washington-Batan estuaries is remarkable. Dots indicate position ofthese stationary fishing gears.

6Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Bamboo is the primary material used inconstruction of stationary fishing gears.
The sharpened end of the pole is pushed
against the sandy or muddy bottom andburied about 1 m deep so that it can serve
as a pillar or post. The other primary construction material is the netting.
The stationary fishing gears are mainly passive gears. These gears are generally fixed inplace and rely on the target species to approach the capture device. In contrast, active
fishing gears are designed to chase and capture target species.

In the estuary, the success of a fishing operation is mainly influenced by tides. As tides
rise and fall, they create flood and ebb currents. Stationary fishing gears in the estuary
are designed so that the rich supply of fish and other invertebrates carried by thesecurrents are guided into capture chambers.

Tidal difference (m)24-Jun-13

17-Jun-13

3-Jun-13

0
10-Jun-13

27-May-13

20-May-13

6-May-130

13-May-1301

529-Apr-13

1-Apr-13
6-Apr-13
11-Apr-13
16-Apr-13
21-Apr-13
26-Apr-13
1-May-13
6-May-13
11-May-13
16-May-13
21-May-13
26-May-13
31-May-13
5-Jun-13
10-Jun-13
15-Jun-13
20-Jun-13
25-Jun-1330-Jun-13

1

10

22-Apr-13

1

2

15

8-Apr-13

2

20

15-Apr-13

3

3

1-Apr-13

2

Catch (kg/day)Catch (kg/day)

4

0

25

3
Tidal difference (m)5The graphs above show the catch per unit effort (CPUE) of fish corral (left) and filter
net (right) that were operating in the New Washington-Batan estuaries. Whenever
there was a strong tidal current, i.e., there was a high tidal difference between highand low tides (indicated by lines), the CPUE increased (indicated by bars). During days
when there was minimal water movement (locally called aya-ay) or low tidal difference, CPUE decreased or fishing operation was suspended.

7

1

24-Jun-13

17-Jun-13

3-Jun-13

10-Jun-13027-May-13

0.5

020-May-13

56-May-13

0

1.5

10

13-May-13

24-Jun-13

17-Jun-13

3-Jun-13

10-Jun-13

27-May-13

20-May-13

6-May-13

13-May-13

29-Apr-13

22-Apr-13

8-Apr-13

1-Apr-13

0

15-Apr-13

0.05

2

15

29-Apr-13

1

2.5

22-Apr-13

0.1

20

8-Apr-13

0.15

3

15-Apr-13

225

1-Apr-13

Catch (kg/day)

0.2

Catch (kg/day)3
Tidal difference (m)

0.3
0.25

Tidal difference (m)Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

However, not all gears in the estuary are influenced by tides as shown by the CPUE of
crab pots (left) and lift net (right). Pots are passive fishing gears while lift net operators
use light to lure fish towards the submerged net.

In the study area, shrimps and crabs are sold to local buyers who act as middlemen (left). Right photo shows fish market in New Washington, Aklan.

Limitations

This study was conducted from 2013 to 2014. While we did try to document all thefishing methods in the study area, we may have missed to document one or several
fishing operations. All other fishing methods that are no longer practiced in the study
area may not have been included in this book.

We hope you enjoy reading this book and find it useful.

8Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Chapter 2
Stationary Fishing
Gears
Harold Monteclaro, Ruby Napata,
Liberty Espectato, Gerald Quinitio andAlan Dino Moscoso

9Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

SHRIMP TRAP
Local Name: Tigbacoe

At a glance
1. A tigbacoe is a stationary gear operated in shallow waters and is primarily madeof bamboo and netting.
2. Its main parts are the wings and codend. At the codend area, a light source issuspended above seawater presumably to lure target species such as shrimps.
3. Fishing operation is usually conducted by a single person and typically starts
late afternoon when the fisher goes to his unit and lights the kerosene lamp.
The fisher then goes home and returns to the tigbacoe before sunrise to haul
the codend and retrieve catch.
4. A tigbacoe could be operated all throughout the year. Peak season is from September to January.
5. Construction costs range from 8,000-10,000 pesos and the gear could be functional for more than 10 years provided proper maintenance is performed.
10Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a TigbacoeAB

A - Wing
11

B - Codend

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tigbacoe
Wings (Taktakon)
Function

Materials Used

The wings herd the fish towards the cod- Bamboo
end.

Type: Small bamboo poles
Number: 50-60 pcs
Netting panel - PE Raschel net, knotless,
No. 12-13 mesh size

Description
A taktakon is a paired row of bamboo poles and netting. The bamboo poles are buried
1-2 m into the substrate and are spaced about 1 m from each other. Its opening widthis usually around 12-15 m, length is 18-25 m and height is 3-4 m.

The pair of wings of a tigbacoe is constructed so that its opening faces theebb current. Fish and other organisms carried by the tidal current are
guided towards the codend.

12Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tigbacoe
Codend (Bunu-an)
Function

Materials Used

The codend is the area where trapped Netting panel: Raschel PE, knotlessfish are retrieved.

Mesh size: No. 17-18
Frame and platform: Bamboo
Twine for tying: PE and PA

Description
The codend is constructed using bamboo and netting. Each side of the codend isabout 0.57 to 0.64 m long. The shape of the codend is usually square, although it may
also be rectangular or round.
The codend is constructed next to the wings. The terminal end of the taktakon leaves
a small opening, about 0.3-0.5 m. Atop the codend, a platform made of bamboo isconstructed to allow fisher to perform fishing operation.

The codend connects to the end of the wings. The picture above shows thesmall area that serves as opening to the codend (raised).
13

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tigbacoe
Light Source
Function

Materials Used

Fishers believe that light lures shrimps 1 unit kerosene lamp (kinki)
and fish into the codend.

Other varieties:
Petromax (pressurized kerosene lamp)
Electric bulb

Description
The lighted kerosene lamp is lowered from the platform until about 1 m from the expected water surface during high tide. The fisherman lights the lamp around 5:00 PM
and is extinguished the next morning before the codend is hauled.

The codend is the part of the tigbacoe where trapped fish is retrieved. A kerosene lamp (encircled) is lowered from the platform lure fish. Setting and hauling of the codend is performed above the bamboo platform.

14

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season

Lean Season

Months:Sep to Jan

Months:

May to Aug

Ave. catch per day:4-6 kgAve. catch per day:2-3 kgNo. of fishing days:

23-28 days/month

No. of fishing days:

14-19 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Greasyback shrimp
Local name: Batod

Portunidae
Blue swimming crab
Local name: Kasag

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga, Bagtis, Uling-uling

Portunidae
Crenate crab
Local name: Kaeantugas

Portunidae
Indo-Pacific swimming crab
Local name: Kaeantugas

Examples of Other Species Caught

Mugilidae
Leiognathidae
Portunidae
Anguillidae
Mullets
Slipmouths
Mud crab
Eels
Local name: Gusaw Local name: Aputoe Local name: Alimango Local name: Pueoy

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Bueawis, Danggit
15

Squillidae
Mantis shrimp
Local name: Pitik-pitik

Penaeidae
Tiger shrimp
Local name: Sugpo

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
Maintenance
Average cost per unit

Fishing Operation
Number of fishers: Usually one person

8,000 – 10,000 pesos
Boat used:
Who constructs gear?

Usually non-motorized boats

Usually by fisher himself; may hire

Some use motorized boats

laborers

A few others use bamboo rafts

Number of days spent on construction

Time lamp is lighted

5-7 days

Usually 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Frequency and type of maintenanceTime codend is hauled

At least once a month

4:00 AM – 5:00 AM

Net mending
Number of days spent on maintenance1 - 3 days

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A tigbacoe is a passive fishing gear. At around 4:00-5:00 PM, the tigbacoe operator
travels to his fishing gear aboard a non-motorized boat. Once he arrives at the fishinggear, he lights the kerosene lamp in the codend area. The lamp is suspended above thewater line. Once done, the fisher returns home. He returns to the unit before sunrise,around 4:00-5:00 AM, to haul the codend. After catch is retrieved, the codend is again
set until the next hauling.

When low tide occurs at night time and catch is plenty, the tigbacoe fisher may retrieve catch during low tide. He then returns early in the morning to check for additional catch.
16

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

TIDAL TRAP
Local Name: Taba

At a glance
1. A taba is a passive fishing gear used mainly to trap shrimps and fishes.
2. Fish and shrimps are guided by the wings into the playground and eventually
into the codend where they are collected.
3. Fishing operation is dependent on the tidal cycle. The codend is hauled about 1
hour before low tide.
4. In most cases, only one person performs the fishing operation. Most of the taba
fishers use non-motorized boats.
5. The taba is operated all year round. Peak season is from September to February.
6. The cost of constructing a taba is about 20,000 to 30,000 pesos depending on
the size of the unit.
7. A taba could be functional up to more than 10 years if properly maintained andis not completely damaged by a typhoon. Maintenance includes repair andcleaning.
17

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba
E
D
C

B

A

A - Wings
B - PlaygroundC - Second Chamber
D - Third Chamber
E - Codend

Wings (Taktakon)
Function

Materials Used

The wing opening faces the water current Bamboo, medium– to large-sized poles
during ebb tide. This allows the wings to PE Raschel net, knotless, No. 12-13 meshguide the fish towards the playground.

size

Description
The wings are made of bamboo poles and netting. The bamboo poles are buried 1-2
m into the substrate and are spaced about 1 m from each other. Its opening width isusually around 80 m and length of each side of the wing is about 100 m.
18

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba
Playground (Tambahan)
Function

Materials Used

The playground functions as a temporary Bamboo, medium– to large-sized poles
holding area of fish after being led by the PE Raschel net, knotless, No. 12-13 meshwings.

size

Description
The playground has a 4-m opening at the end of the taktakon. This section is heartshaped and is about 20 m long at the side.

Second Chamber (Ligaw)
Function

Materials Used

The inner chamber of the tidal trap re- Bamboo, medium– to large-sized poles
duces chances of fish escape.

PE Raschel net, knotless, No. 12-13 meshsize

Description
The ligaw has a small opening at the end of the tambahan. It has the same shape as
the playground, although much smaller in scale.

Codend (Bunu-an)
Function

Materials Used

The codend is the area where trapped Bamboo, medium– to large-sized poles
fish are retrieved.

PE Raschel net, knotless, No. 12-13 meshsize

Description
Each side of the codend is about 4 to 5 m long. The shape of the codend is usuallysquare. Atop the codend, a platform made of bamboo is constructed to allow fisher toperform setting and hauling of net.
19

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season

Lean Season

Months:Sep to Feb

Months:March to August

Ave. catch per day:5-10 kg

Ave. catch per day:2-4 kgNo. of fishing days:

20-28 days/month

No. of fishing days:

10-21 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Various shrimps
Local name: Batod,
Sugpo

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Bueawis,
MubeadMugilidae
Mullets
Local name: Gusaw,
Balanak

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga, Bagtis, Uling-uling

Examples of Other Species Caught

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Aputoe, Sapsap, Dalinuan

Teraponidae
Tigerperches
Local name: Buga-ong

Mullidae
Goatfishes
Local name: Ti-aw

Ambassidae
Glassfishes
Local name: Bakagan

Portunidae
Blue swimming crab
Local name: Kasag
20

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit

Number of fishers

20,000 - 30,000 pesos

Usually one person, sometimes two

Who constructs?

If more than 2 fishers, who helps fisher?

Fisher aided by hired labor

Usually the fisher’s son or wife. Sortingof catch performed by fisher and his

Number of days spent on construction

wife or other family members

14-25 days (depending on size)
Boat used
Frequency of maintenanceOnce a month

Motorized (if gear is situated far fromhome)
Non-motorized (if gear is located near

Number of days spent on maintenancefisher’s home

2-3 daysTime codend is hauledType of maintenance

About an hour before low tide

Net repair, cleaning
Time spent fishing
Who performs maintenance?

Travel to fishing ground and back: ~1 hr

Mostly by fisher himself

Hauling and setting codend: ~1 to 2 hr
Sorting of catch: ~0.5 to 1 hr
Fishing accessories used
Flashlight
Scoop net

21

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

A taba may vary in design according to site and financial capability of theowner. (Left) A taba with wings (taktakon), first chamber (tambahan), andcodend (bunu-an). (Right) A taba variant with taktakon, tambahan, a second
chamber (ligaw), and bunu-an. Note: Illustrations not in scale.

A taba is a passive fishing gear that relies on water current in catching fish. The gear
has a pair of wings that lead fish into the playground and eventually to the codend. Thetaba fisher hauls the codend about an hour before low tide. He performs the fishing
operation on a platform that is constructed atop the codend. The codend is hauledmanually. If necessary, he uses a scoop net to retrieve catch and transfer catch into abucket. Once the catch has been retrieved, the codend is once again set to and madeready until the next low tide period.

22

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CORRAL
Local Name: Taba

At a glance
1. A fish corral is a stationary fishing gear that is primarily made of bamboo and netting panels.
2. It has three to five sections. Simple designs have a leader net, a playground, and a
codend. Bigger versions may have two or more additional chambers.
3. Small fish corral variants are found nearshore while large variants are usually located in the deeper part of the estuary.
4. Fishing is tide dependent. A fish corral targets fish carried by tidal currents. Dominant catch includes shrimp, crabs, rabbitfishes, mullets, milkfish and other fish.
5. Because the use of the gear is tide-dependent, time of fishing operation varies according to the time of flood and/or ebb tide.
6. There is no fishing operation in days with minimal tidal fluctuations.
7. Fish corral operators use either small non-motorized or motorized boats to go totheir fishing gear.
23

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba

E
D
C

B

A

A - Leader net
B - PlaygroundC & D - Second and Third chambers
E - Codend
24Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba
Leader Net (Taktakon)
Function

Materials Used

The leader net guides fish towards the

1. Bamboo poles: 1st class for large units

playground.

2nd & 3rd class for small units
2. Netting panel: PE Raschel, knotless,
No. 8-22
3. Headrope and Footrope: PE, 5.81 mm
diameter
4. Bamboo pegs, 40 cm long

Description
The leader net is about 70-100 m long. Bamboo posts are buried about 1 m into thesubstrate at an interval of about 1 m. The netting is attached to the bamboo posts
using PE twine (locally called plehe) that has a 1-mm diameter. To keep the bottom
part of the net fixed in place, bamboo pegs are used to tack the lower end of the net
into the substrate. The pegs are spaced about 0.5 m apart.

Playground/First Chamber (Tambahan or Bulon)
Function

Materials Used

The playground traps fish that have been 1. Bamboo poles (the same as leader net)
guided by the leader net.

2. Netting panel: HDPE Raschel, knotless
3. Headrope and footrope: PE, 5.81 mm ø
4. Bamboo pegs, 40 cm long

Description
The playground is constructed at the seaward side of the leader net. The materials
and construction are essentially similar all throughout the gear. The playground has
an area that ranges from 200 to 400 sq. m.

25

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba
Second Chamber (Palibod or Tambahan) and Third Chamber (Ligaw)
Function

Materials Used

The second and third chambers, if pre- 1. Bamboo poles (the same as leader net)
sent, are additional enclosures that fur- 2. Netting panel: HDPE Raschel, knotlessther reduce the chance of fish escape. 3. Headrope and footrope: PE, 5.81 mm ø
These chambers lead to the codend.

4. Bamboo pegs, 40 cm long

Description
The additional chambers decrease in area until the codend. The tambahan may require about 24-30 bamboo pieces and about 15 m netting. The ligaw has a smaller
enclosed area and uses about 18 bamboo posts and 6 m netting.
The entrance in each chamber has a modified non-return mechanism to reduce exit offish. The entrance to the tambahan is about 1 m wide. In contrast, the entrance to theligaw is about 12 cm wide.

Codend (Bunu-an)
Function
The area where trapped fish aretrieved.

Materials Usedre- 1. Bamboo poles: 9-12 pcs
2. Netting panel: HDPE Raschel, knotless,2.5-3 m long
3. Headrope and footrope: PE, 5.81 mm ø

Description
The entrance to the codend is about 9 cm wide. Fish corrals in the estuary are tide
dependent. These units may have two codends located at opposite ends of the playground. One codend is retrieved during high tide while the other is hauled during low
tide. A taba that is constructed in deeper waters usually has a single codend, locatedat the deeper waters.
26

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Taba

The fish corral in the New Washington-Batan estuaries vary in design based on thephysical characteristic of the sites. Some designs contain only one codend. Other designs may have two codends, each with a second and third chamber that precede thecodend. The two codends allow retrieval of catch during high and low tide periods.
Note: Illustrations not in scale.
27

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season

Lean Season

Months:Sep to Dec

Months:March to August

Catch per day:6-10 kgCatch per day:1-3 kgNo. of fishing days:

20-23 days/month

No. of fishing days:

13-19 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Shrimps
Local name: Batod

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Bueawis, Danggit, Mubead

Chanidae
MilkfishLocal name: Bangus

Mugilidae
MulletLocal name: Gusaw, Balanak, Banak

Examples of Other Species Caught

Sillaginidae
Whitings
Local name: Asoos

Gerreidae
Mojarras
Local name: Batwanon

Teraponidae
Tigerperches
Local name: Buga-ong
28

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Examples of Other Species Caught

Portunidae
Portunus pelagicus
Local name: Kasag

Portunidae
Thalamita crenata
Local name: Kaeantugas

Portunidae
Scylla spp.
Local name: Alimango

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Sapsap, Aputoe, Dalinuan

Mullidae
Goatfishes
Local name: Ti-aw
29

Portunidae
Charybdis hellerii
Local name: Kaeantugas

Lutjanidae
Snappers
Local name: Awuman

Lethrinidae
Emperors
Local name: Pasu-an

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit

Number of fishers

14,000 pesos (small)

Usually one person, sometimes two

40,000 pesos (big)If more than 2 fishers, who helps fisher?
Who constructs?

Usually the fisher’s son or wife. Sorting

Fisher aided by hired labor (small)of catch performed by fisher and his

Usually hired labor (big)wife or other family members.

Number of days spent on construction

Boat used

15-30 days

Motorized (if gear is situated far fromhome)Frequency of maintenanceOnce a monthNon-motorized (if gear is located nearfisher’s home

Number of days spent on maintenanceTime fisher hauls net and catch

2-3 days

Just before low tide

Type of maintenanceTime fisher sets net

Net repair, cleaning

After retrieval of catch

Who performs maintenance?

Accessories used during fishing

Mostly by fisher himself, assisted byoperation

relatives

Scoop net
Flashlight

A taba operator may have two sets of net. Each month, he replaces the net so that theused net could be cleaned and mended. It is said that fish would not enter the taba if it
is full of biofouling organisms such as algae.

30

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
In a taba fishing operation, fish is retrieved at the codend section. When hauling, thefisher closes the entrance of the ligaw and bunu-an. Both the ligaw and bunu-an can
be closed by pulling PE twines from the respective openings.

In deepwater units, the fisher hauls the entire codend during hauling. Normally, there
is a platform atop the codend where setting and hauling of codend may be performed.
The fisher may use a scoop net when retrieving catch.

In shallow-water units, the fisher may be able to walk inside the taba because the water has receded during low tide. The taba fisher may use a scoop net or he can merely
pick up the trapped fish. If hauled during high tide, he hauls the codend atop a platform. If the unit has no platform, the codend is hauled aboard a boat. After retrieving
the catch, the codend is again set for another cycle of fish capture.

If the weather permits, taba fishing may be conducted at least 22-23 days in a month.
Because the gear is tide-dependent, there is no operation for 4 days each during thefirst and third quarter phase of the moon. During these neap tide periods, water movement in the estuary is slow resulting to minimal fish transport by tidal currents.

31

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FILTER NET
At a glance
1. A filter net is a stationary fishing gear that is primarily made of post and netting
panels that form a conical bag.
2. The mouth of the filter net is set facing the current flow. At the farthest end of
the net bag is the codend where fish is trapped and ultimately caught.
3. In the estuaries of New Washington, Altavas and Batan, there are two types offilter nets according to design – the winged type (locally called saluran) and thenon-winged type (locally called tangab).
4. Success of fishing operation is highly dependent on tidal cycles.
5. Because the use of the gear is tide-dependent, time of fishing operation varies
according to tidal cycles.
6. In New Washington-Batan estuaries, hauling of filter net codend is performed
during ebb tide.
7. A filter net targets species that are carried by tidal currents. Dominant catch

includes shrimps, sergestid shrimps, crabs, fish and other invertebrates.

32

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:Oct-Dec; Apr-May

Lean Season
Months:Jun-Aug; Feb-Mar

Ave. catch per day: 6-10 kg

Ave. catch per day:2-5 kgNo. of fishing days: 24 days/month

No. of fishing days: 14 days/month

An unsorted catch of a filter net

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeid shrimps (left) and blue swimming crabs (top) are the dominant species caught using a saluran.

33

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Dominant Species Caught

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Bagtis

Engraulidae
Anchovies
Local name: Bolinaw

Sergestidae
Sergestid shrimp
Local name: Banlag

Examples of Other Species Caught

Squillidae
Mantis shrimps
Local name: Pitikpitik

Portunidae
Crenate crabs
Local name: Kaeantugas

Mugilidae
Mullets
Local name: Gusaw, Balanak

34

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Examples of Other Species Caught

Alpheidae
Snapping shrimps
Local name: Kadtan

Anguillidae
Eel
Local name: Ubod

Teraponidae
Tigerperches
Local name: Buga-ong

Mullidae
Goatfishes
Local name: Ti-aw

Psettodidae
Turbots
Local name: Paead

35

Tetraodontidae
Pufferfishes
Local name: Butete

Ambassidae
Glassfishes
Local name: Bakagan

Cynoglossidae
Flatfishes
Local name: Paead

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Sapsap,
Aputo

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATIONIn the estuary, the filter net is set during high tide with the mouth of the net facing thecurrent flow. The net bag is opened by dropping a pair of anchors that are individuallyattached to a used tire which in turn is attached to the bamboo post. When the anchors are dropped, the used tires pull down the attached net, thereby stretching thenet mouth open. The upper corners of the net mouth are tied to the bamboo poles forproper vertical and horizontal alignment. If the fishing ground is shallow (about 3 m
deep or less), the filter net operator may use a bamboo pole to push the footrope into
the muddy or sandy substrate. This helps ensure that the net mouth is properly
opened.

A sundong is a bamboo pole (indicated by arrows) that is used to push the footrope into the muddy or sandy substrate to properly open net mouth.
A filter net is retrieved about an hour before the low tide. To retrieve the net, theropes attached to the anchors are pulled up either manually or with the aid of an improvised winch. The winch closes the net mouth and brings the mouth of the net to theplatform where the fisherman can slowly pull up the net.
The codend is opened atop the platform and catch is lowered into a basket. If the fisherman has an assistant, the assistant brings the boat just below the platform. The assistant who is aboard the boat opens the codend and lowers the catch into basket inside
the boat. Alternatively, a fisherman can use scoop net to retrieve catch. After net retrieval, the net is placed on the platform until the next high tide.
36

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FILTER NET WITH WINGS
Local Name: Saluran

It is common to see a series of filter nets interconnected by bamboo bridges. Thesefilter nets are often owned by a single fisherman.
37

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Saluran

A—Wings

B—Net mouth

C—Net body

D—Codend38

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Saluran

A saluran net mouth preceded by a paired
row of bamboos that serve as wings. The net isattached to the main bamboo posts, locallycalled tularok.

Wings (Taktakon)
Function

Materials Used

The bamboo poles serve as attachment Bamboo poles
area to keep the mouth of the net open.

A. Main post: 2-4 pcs, 1st class

The pair of wings provide additional sta-

B. For Wing construction

bility of the structure. In addition, theNumber: 24-50 pcs.

wings allow the construction of a plat-

Type: usually 2nd classform above the water surface where theLength: 6-9 m

fisherman performs fishing operations.

C. For Platform construction
Number: 6-10 pcs.
Type: usually 2nd and 3rd class
PA twine: No. 150 (diameter 1.5 mm)

Description
1. Each wing may have about 8-25 bamboo poles that are arranged almost like aletter “V”. The interval between each bamboo may be from 0.3 to 1 m.
2. The main posts (tularok) are the poles where the net mouth is attached.
2. Bamboo poles are buried at about 1-1.5 m deep into the substrate.
3. Additional bamboos are placed horizontally or diagonally for added support. PA
and/or PE twines are used for tying bamboo poles.
4. The wings are bridged together using separate bamboo poles that are placed
horizontally above the water surface. The bridge serves as a platform for setting and hauling operations.
39Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Saluran
Mouth of the Net (Baba-an)
Function

Materials Used

The mouth of the net allows the entry Headline, groundline, skirtline, and pullingof fish, shrimps, crabs, and other or- lines: either PE (No. 22, 16, 20, 12) or PVA
ganisms carried by the tidal current (No. 22, 14)
into the net. It is imperative that thispart of the net is wide open. Other- Anchors: Bag of stones, 10 kg each bag
wise, fish cannot enter the net and Used tires, 4-6 pcs
fishing operation would not be suc- Weights (optional): Stone, 1 kg eachcessful.
Description
1.

The mouth of the filter net is framed by a headline, groundline and skirtlines. It
usually spans from the bottom (seafloor) to about 1 m from the surface.

2. To keep the upper part of the net mouth in position, each end of the headline is
attached to a used tire, which in turn, is attached to the nearest bamboo pole that
forms part of the wings. Floats are not necessary.
3. To keep the net properly opened, anchors are attached to both ends of thegroundline. The two ends of the groundline are similarly attached to used tires,
which in turn, are attached to bamboo posts. When the anchors are dropped, theused tires, along with the groundlines, sink with the anchors thus effectively opening the net mouth (see picture on the left).
4. Depending on the width of the net
mouth, additional weights may be used
to keep the bottom part close to thebottom.
5. The mouth of the net is usually 6-9 m
high. Some units may be as low as 4 m
and as deep as 12 m. Width of opening
is usually 3-5 m, although some units
may be as wide as 9 m.
Above: Used tires placed around the bamboo post facilitate lowering and raisingof filter net. When the attached anchor is lowered, the used tires and net follow.
40

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Saluran
Net Body
Function

Materials Used

The net body sieves the water column to Netting panel
capture fish.

Type: HDPE Raschel knotless
Mesh size: various mesh sizes used,
see table below
PA twines, No. 150, diameter 1.5 mm

Description
Part of the net

Depth
(m)
5.25 – 6
3 – 5.25

Mesh size

Fore section
Middle section

Length(m)
55No. 11
No. 14

Mesh size
(cm)
2.40
2.35

Rear section

2.5

1.5 – 3

No. 17

1.60

Codend (Puyo)

4

0.3 – 1.5

No. 220.40

1. The body of the filter net assumes a conical shape.
2. It is made of netting materials with at least three mesh size openings.
3. The mesh opening decreases in size from the net mouth area towards thecodend.

Codend (Puyo)
Function

Materials Used

The codend is the part of the net

Netting panel: HDPE knotless net, 0.4 cm

where fish is retained.

mesh opening
Twine for tying: (PA, PE, PVA; No. 10, 14, 22)
PET bottle: 1 pc, serves as marker

Description
The codend is at the farthest end of the filter net. To close the codend, a twine is used
to tie the opening. It also allows for easy opening after fish retrieval.
41

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost of unit

Number of fishers

10,000-20,000 pesos

1-2 persons

Cost depends on size and depth of gear

Assistant is usually the fisher’s sonor another relative

Who constructs gear?

Sorting of catch is often performed

Usually by hired laborby fisher and his family (e.g., wife)

Number of days spent on construction

Boat used

12-20 days

Either motorized or non motorized

Frequency of maintenanceTime

2-5 times per year

Net is set: During high tide
Net is hauled: ~ 1 hour before low

Number of days spent on maintenancetide

1-3 daysTime spentType of maintenanceTravelling to fishing ground : 30-60 min

Net repair and cleaning

Actual fishing: 60 – 90 min
Sort fish catch: ~ 15-30 min

Who performs maintenance?

Total time spent fishing: ~ 2-3 hrs

Usually by fisher himself,
Assisted by son, other family
Members, or by hired labor

Operating cost
About 40 pesos (to pay for gasoline
used by fishers using motorizedboats)

Filter nets are constructed in areas where there is a presence of tidal currents. The
saluran in the Aklan estuaries are mostly located in the New Washington area. They
are present in both deep (~9-12 m) and relatively shallow (~4 m) areas. Some units arepresent in the upstream areas.
42Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FILTER NET
Deep-water, Non-winged Type
Local Name: Tangab

At a glance
1. There are two designs of tangab in New Washington-Batan-Banga Bay estuaries: a deep-water and a shallow-water variant.
2. The variations in design are primarily due to differences in the physical characteristics of the fishing ground.
3. A deep-water tangab is bigger and is set at a depth of about 10 m. A shallowwater tangab is smaller and is set at a depth of about 3.5 m.
4. A deep-water tangab uses coconut trunks as posts; a shallow-water tangab
uses bamboo poles instead.
5. Construction of a deep-water tangab is naturally costlier.
6. A tangab targets species that are carried by tidal currents. Dominant catch includes penaeid shrimps, sergestid shrimps, crabs, fish and other invertebrates.
43

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab

B

A
C
D

A—Post

B—Net mouth

C—Net body

D—Codend

It is not unusual to see a series of filter nets in estuaries. These units are often owned
by a single fisher.

44

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab
Post and Platform
Function

Materials Used

The pair of trunks that are placed at the 1. For posts: Coconut trunk (2 pcs)
fore of the gear serves as pillars for the 2. For platform: Bamboo poles, 3-6 pcs
tangab. The posts help ensure that the 3. Twine cable: PE
mouth of the net is properly opened dur- 4. Wooden pegs, 12 pcs
ing fishing operation. In addition, a bridge
made of bamboo is constructed between
the two posts and serves as platform forfisher during fishing operations.
Description
Coconut trunks are buried at about 1 m deep into the substrate. As an added support,
the posts are staked using PE ropes that are attached to wood pegged at the bottom.
The net is attached to the trunks for support and also to keep the net mouth open.
The posts should be sturdy enough to withstand water current.
A bamboo bridge is constructed linking the two coconut posts. The bridge serves as aplatform for fisher during fishing operations.

Net Mouth
Function

Materials Used

The mouth of the net allows the entry of 1. Headline, groundline, skirtlines andfish, shrimps, crabs and other organisms

pulling lines

carried by the tidal current into the net. It 2. Anchors: 2 bags with stones, ~10 kg
is imperative that this part of the net is

eachwide open. Otherwise, fish is not trans- 3. Sinkers (optional): Lead, 30-50 cm inported into the net and fishing operation
would not be successful.

terval
4. Used tires: 4-6 pcs
5. Twine for tying: PE, usually No. 22

45

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab
Net Mouth
Description
The mouth of the net usually spans from the bottom (seafloor) to about 1-2 m below
the water surface. This reduces the probability that debris carried by the tidal currents
get in contact with the netting material, thereby reducing probability of damage.
Used tires are attached to the four ends of the net mouth. Also attached to the bottom tires are stone anchors. When the tires and anchors are released, the tire sinks
along the coconut post. As the tire and anchors sink, the net mouth opens. To keep
the upper part of the net in position, the upper corners of the net mouth are attachedto the platform and in the upper portion of the coconut trunks. Floats are usually notnecessary.

Net Body
Function

Materials Used

The net body sieves the water column to

Netting panel

capture fish.

a. Type: PA, Kuralon, Pamo
b. Mesh size: Variable according toposition in the net (see table below)
Twinesa. Type: PA or PE (diameter 1.5 mm)

Description
PartPart ofof thethe netnet

TypeType ofof netting
netting materialmaterial

Length(m)(m)
LengthNet
Net mouth
mouth
Fore
Fore
MiddleMiddleCodendCodendPA,PA, knottedknottedPA, knottedknottedPA,PE, knottedknottedPE,
Raschel, knotless
knotless
Raschel,~5-10 meshes

Mesh
size
Mesh
size
(cm)
(cm)
6-10
6-10

99
33
10.5
10.5

55
3.5
3.5
0.4
0.4

The body of the filter net assumes a conical shape. It is made of netting materials withat least three mesh size openings. The mesh opening decreases in size from the net
mouth area towards the codend.
46

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab
A

B

C

D

Net material and mesh opening along the various parts of a filter net. A) Net mouth,B) Fore, C) Middle and D) Codend.

Codend (Puyo)
Function

Materials Used

The codend is the part of the net where 1. Netting panel
fish is retained.

Type: HDPE Raschel net, knotless
Length: ~10 m
2. Twine for tying: PE and PA
3. Float as marker, 1 pc

Description
The codend is at the farthest end of the filter net. To close the codend, a twine is used
to tie the opening. It also allows for easy opening after fish retrieval.

47

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Average cost per unit

Number of fishers

15,000 pesos

1 – 2 persons
Sorting of catch is performed by

Who constructs gear?
By fisher and hired labor
Number of days spent on construction
15-20 days
Frequency of maintenance
Twice a month

fisher and wife or other family
members
Boat used
Either motorized or non motorizedTime
Net is set: During high tide
Net is hauled: 1-2 h before end of ebb

Number of days spent on maintenancetide

2-3 daysTime spentType of maintenanceNet repair and cleaning

Travelling to fishing ground andback: 30 – 60 min
Actual fishing: 60 – 90 min
Sort fish catch: ~ 15-45 min
Total time spent fishing: ~ 2-3 hrs

A tangab is often constructed in waters that are about 10 m deep. Since fishing operation is dependent on tidal currents, this gear is situated in areas where tidal currents
are stronger.

A tangab is set during high tide. When water starts to recede, ebb current is created.
This tidal current carries along a diverse and abundant supply of fish. The mouth of the
net is set facing this current to passively capture fish.
48

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FILTER NET
Shallow-water, Non-winged Type
Local Name: Tangab

At a glance
1. The shallow-water tangab is smaller than the deep-water variant. It is set at ashallower depth, about 3-4 m. The posts are made of bamboo.
2. Fishing operation is normally conducted by a single person. Additional help isusually a family member, such as the fisher’s son, brother or wife.
3. Small tangab operators usually use non-motorized boats.
4. Because the shallow-water variant is smaller and is constructed using bamboo
instead of coconut, cost of construction is lower compared to the deep-water
variant. A unit costs about 3,000-7,000 pesos.
5. The smaller tangab allows easy transfer of the unit. Depending on the amountof fish available in a specific place, a small tangab operator can easily uproot
the bamboo posts and transfer to another fishing area.

49

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab

A

C

D

B

A—Post

B—Net mouth

C—Net body

D—Codend

The posts of a small tangab is constructed using bamboo (left). The mouth of thefilter net should be properly opened to allow entry of fish carried by water current(right).

50

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab
Posts and Platform
Function

Materials Used

The bamboo posts serve as pillars. The Bamboo poles (Main pillar)
posts ensure that the mouth of the net is

Number: 4-6, 1st classproperly opened during fishing opera-

Length: 7-9 m

tions. The bamboo poles are linked by a

Diameter: 13-15 cm

bridge made of additional bamboo poles. Twine (for tying) – PE
The bridge serves as a platform where afisherman can perform setting and haul- Bamboo poles (Bridge/Platform)ing of net, and where net can be hung

Number: 2-4 pcs

when not used.

Type: 2nd class

Description
Bamboo poles are buried about 1 m deep into the substrate. A bamboo bridge is constructed linking the two bamboo posts. The bridge serves as a platform for fisherman
during fishing operations. When not in use, the net is hung in the platform. The net isattached to the standing bamboo pillars for support and also to keep the net mouth
open.

Net Mouth
Function

Materials Used

The mouth of the net allows the entry of Netting panel
fish, shrimps, crabs and other organisms

Type: Nylon or HDPE knotless

carried by the tidal current into the net.

Mesh size: No. 13 or 14

This part of the net should be wide open.

Net height: 3-5 m

Otherwise, fish is not transported into

Net width: 6 m

the net and fishing operation would not Twine: PA, No. 17 or 20.
be successful.

Headrope, footrope and skirtlines
Pulling lines used for setting and hauling
Anchors: Bag of stones, 2 pcs, 10 kg each51

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Tangab
Net Mouth
Description
1. The mouth of the net usually spans from the bottom (seafloor) to the surface.
2. To keep the net close to the bottom, a pair of anchors is attached at the bottom
corner of the net. In addition, a footrope with lead sinkers is also attached.
3. Since the fishing ground is shallow, the tangab operator uses a bamboo pole topush the footrope into the substrate.
4. To keep the upper part of the net in position, the upper corners of the net
mouth are attached to the bamboo pillars. Floats are usually not necessary.
5. To facilitate the lowering and raising of the net, pulling lines are used.

Net Body
Function

Materials Used

The net body sieves the water column. Netting panel: PE (knotted), HDPE RaschelFish that enters net are led to thecodend.

net (knotless),
Mesh size: various sizes depending on
net location
Twines (for joining netting panels): PA, PE

Description
Just like other filter net designs, the small-variant tangab assumes a conical shape.
The gear is composed of netting materials with at least three mesh size openings. The
mesh opening decreases in size from the net mouth area towards the codend.

Codend (Puyo)
Function

Materials Used

The codend is the part of the net where Netting panel: HDPE Raschel net, knotlessfish is retained.

Length: ~10 m
Twine for tying: PA, PE
Float as marker

Description
The codend is at the farthest end of the filter net. To close the codend, a twine is used
to tie the opening. It also allows for easy opening after fish retrieval.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit

Number of fishers

3,000-7,000 pesos

1 personWho constructs gear?

Boat used

Usually fisher himself, may hire laborer

Either motorized or non motorized

Number of days spent on constructionTime

10-15 days

Net is set: During high tide
Net is hauled: ~1 h before end of ebb

Frequency of maintenancetide

Every week
Time spent
Number of days spent on maintenance
1 day

Travelling to fishing ground andback: 30 – 60 min
Actual fishing: 60 – 90 min

Type of maintenanceSorting of catch: ~ 15-45 min

Net mending

Sorting of filter net catch is a family affair that involves
women and sometimes children.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

LIFT NET
Local Name: Bintahan

At a glance
1. A lift net is a fixed fishing gear that is primarily made of bamboo and netting
panels that form a bag.
2. The net is set at night and light is used to attract fish over the submerged net.
Once there is enough fish, net is hauled using an improvised pulley system.
3. Fishing operation is normally conducted by a single person. Depending on fish
availability, a lift net operator may set and haul the gear 1-4 times in a night.
4. Dominant catch of lift nets inside the estuary are juvenile anchovies, mullets,
sergestid shrimps and other fish.
5. Construction cost ranges from 15,000 to 50,000 pesos depending on the depthof the fishing ground and the size of the net.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan

CAB

A—Posts/
Framework
B—Net
C—Light source

Framework
Function

Materials Used

The bamboo framework provides attach- Bamboo poles
ment for the net. In addition, the top por-Number: 50-100 pcs

tion serves as a platform during the set-

Type: Mostly 1st classting and hauling of net.

PE and PA twine

Description
The framework consists of two parallel rows of bamboos that are permanently stakedon the substrate. The bamboo framework assumes a square design. The bamboo rows
are supported by additional bamboo braces and catwalks. A small hut is constructedatop the framework allowing the fisher refuge from rain and wind.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan

The framework of a bintahan is made of bamboo poles that are partly buried at thesubstrate to keep the posts standing and stable. The netting is attached on the four
corners of the framework. The fisher conducts fishing operation atop the structure.
One the platform is a small hut for refuge at night or when there is rain and an improvised pulley system used to lower or raise the net.

The bintahan net body is made of PE Raschel, square, knotless netting with a 4 mmmesh opening. A PE twine is inserted at the edges of the net to serve as skirtline.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan
Net Body
Function

Materials Used

When net is lifted to the surface, it cap- HDPE Raschel net, square, knotlesstures fish that have aggregated under theplatform.
Description
Each side of the net may be 10-25 m long. Net dimensions vary according to thelength, width and depth of the bamboo framework. The net material is usually PE Raschel square, knotless mesh with 4 mm opening.

Skirtline and Weights
Function

Materials Used

The skirtline maintains the shape of the PE twines (skirtline)
net body. Also, it is attached to the series PE and/or PA twines (for tying)of rope systems that form part of the pul- Weights and sinkers
ley system.

Material: Lead or stone
Number: 4-12

The weights facilitate sinking of the net
and keep the net body close to the substrate.
Description
Each corner of the net body is provided with 2-3 stones or lead weights to facilitate
sinking of the net.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan

The net body is kept submerged close to the substrate using stones as weight(encircled). Notice the pulling line attached to the net corner which passes throughthe pulley system.

Pulley System
Function

Materials Used

The improvised pulley system facilitates Bamboo pole (~2 m long, 15 cm wide)lowering and hauling of the net.

Bamboo stick (lever)Bamboo posts (4 pcs, ~1.5 m long)
Wooden rings
PE ropes (pull ropes)

Description
The pulley system is constructed on the platform. It consists of a bamboo pole that
rests atop a pair of bamboo stands. The bamboo pole is revolved using a bamboo leverthat is attached through the bigger pole. When the bamboo pole is rotated, the pullropes are either released or hauled. In the four corners of the framework, each corner/
post is provided with rings where the pull ropes pass through.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan

A bintahan fisher using an improvised pulley system to lower and raise the net. The
pulley system is made of a series of PE ropes attached to a bamboo pole that is revolved in place using a bamboo lever to pull or release rope.

A bintahan works by using light to lure fish over the submerged net. The mostpopular light sources are pressurized lamp (left) and electrical fluorescent lamps(right).
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintahan
Light Source
Function

Materials Used

Light is used to lure fish under the bam- Petromax (pressurized kerosene lamp):
boo platform and over the submerged
netting.

1 unit, orElectric bulb (fluorescent, 18-50
watts): 2-3 units
Bucket, red coloredPower source (if using electric bulb):
usually AC, sometimes generator

Description
Many liftnet operators in the New Washington-Batan-Banga estuaries use electricity
to power their lamps. To connect to a power source, the operator needs to constructa series of bamboo posts from the electric source to the liftnet. The power source
may come from the fisher’s house. If the fisher’s house is situated far from his liftnet,
he may connect from the nearest household, usually for a fee.
The light source is lowered at the center of the framework until about 2 m from thewater surface. A PE rope is used to lower and raise light source during fishing operation.

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:

Oct to Dec; Apr to May

Lean Season
Months:Jul to Aug; Jan to Feb

Ave. catch per day: 10-30 kg

Ave. catch per day: 0.5-3 kg

No. of fishing days: 19-25 days/month

No. of fishing days: 10-21 days/ month60

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Dominant Species Caught

Engraulidae
Anchovies
Local name: Bolinaw

Clupeidae
Sardines
Local name: Tabagak

Sergestidae
Sergestid Shrimp
Local name: Banlag

Ambassidae
Glassfishes
Local name: Bakagan
61

Atherinidae
Silversides

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Examples of Other Species Caught

Penaeidae

Hemiramphidae

Tetraodontidae

Ophichthidae

Portunidae

Apogonidae

Scorpaenidae

Carangidae

Triacanthidae

Terapontidae

Mullidae

GobiidaePomacentridae
62Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit
15,000 to 50,000 pesos

Number of fishers
Usually one person, sometimes two

Who constructs?
Mainly by hired labor

If more than 2 fishers, who helps fisher?
Usually the fisher’s son or another
Relative. Sorting of catch performed byfisher and his wife or other family
members

Number of days spent on construction
12-18 days
Frequency of maintenance
2-5 times per year
Number of days spent on maintenance
1-3 days
Type of maintenanceNet repair, cleaning
Who performs maintenance?
Mostly by fisher himself, assisted byfamily members or hired labor

Boat used: Usually motorizedTime set net
Between 4:30 to 7:30 PM
Number of hauls per night2-5 times
Time finished fishing~ 5:00 AM
Total time spent fishing: ~ 10-12 hrs
Operational cost may range from 60-200
pesos per fishing trip. This includes costof kerosene or electricity, and gasoline
for those using motorized boats.
Because fishing operation utilizes light toattract fish, fishing operation is often
suspended 2-3 days before and after thefull moon. During this period, the fisher
usually mends net/ framework damage.

A fisher assisted by hired labor during construction of a bintahan (above). Construction of the framework takes about 8-10 days to finish. Net construction takes about 4-8 days.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A bintahan is operated at night. The fisher usually sets the net at dusk. To lower andraise the net, he uses an improvised pulley system that is composed of bamboo, PE
ropes and rings. Once the net has been lowered, it is kept submerged using sinkers thatare attached in every corner of the net.

The light source is then turned on to attract fish. The lamp is usually lowered until
about 2 m from the water surface. The length of time spent attracting the fish depends
on the amount of fish that has been lured into the net. The fisher can monitor fish
quantity from the platform. When there is sufficient amount of fish present, the fisher
dims the light (when using the Petromax). When he uses an electric bulb, he turns on
the bulb that is covered in red bucket. He then switches off the main light used for luring. By dimming the Petromax (or using the red light), fish that have been lured towards the liftnet are further aggregated into a smaller area. Once the fish has aggregated over the submerged net, the fisher hauls the net body using the improvised pulley system. Captured fish is retrieved using a scoop net and stored in a polystyrene
box. When catch is good, the fisher would again lower his net and start the capture
process. Depending on fish availability, a bintahan operator may perform fishing operation 1-4 times in a single night.

Fishing operation could last the whole night thus the fisher spends the entire night
atop the bintahan platform. During the period when fish are being lured using light,
the fisher finds opportunity to sleep. The platform usually has a small hut where thefisher can sleep and take refuge from rain or cold weather.

Fishing ends at twilight. By this time, the net has been raised. The net is often left
hanging from the platform for easy setting the following night. The fisher brings thecaught fish to his residence where catch is sorted with the help of his family members.

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BAITED LIFT NETS
Local Name: Batak-batak

At a glance
1. A batak-batak is a type of lift net that primarily targets shrimps. Other species
caught are mullets, rabbitfishes, crabs, gobies and other small fishes.
2. It is made of a square netting that is supported by bamboo posts in each corner. The netting may or may not have a bunt.
3. The net is lowered using an improvised pulley system.
4. Fish are lured into the submerged net using baits composed of ground bivalves.
When set at night, the fisher uses light as additional lure.
5. Fishing operation may be conducted daytime or nighttime.
6.

Average construction cost of a batak-batak is PhP 6,500. Larger gears cost
more.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Batak-batak

A—Post

B—Net body

C—Codend

D—Platform
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Batak-batak
Posts
Function
The bamboo posts support the net during
fishing operation.

Materials Used
Bamboo poles: 1st class, 4 – 16 pcs
Twine: PA, #180

Description
The posts form the four corners of the fishing gear. To keep the posts standing in thefishing ground, one end of the bamboo pole is pushed against the substrate until it isburied at a depth 1-2 m. Some owners prefer to form a tripod at each corner, so thatthe posts become more stable. Other fishers, to cut on cost, prefer to have a single
bamboo pole buried in each corner. Each post serves as attachment for the net.

A batak-batak has four posts where the net body is attached. The bamboo poles are
partly buried in the substrate to make the posts standing. Oftentimes, a tripod isformed for each post. At far right is a platform which houses a small hut (where fisher
can seek refuge at night or during rainy weather) and a pulley system that is used tolower and raise net body.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Batak-batak
Net Body
Function

Materials Used

The net body facilitates capture by en- Netting panel
closing organisms that have been lured

Material: PE, Raschel type, knotless

and aggregated atop the submerged net.

Mesh: usually #17, sometimes #22
Sinkerline
Material: PA or PE, #180
Weights
Material: Lead or stone
Number: 4 pcs

Description
The batak-batak net assumes a square shape. Each side of the net may be 6-20 m
long, depending on the capacity of fisher to invest. The net is made of PE Raschel diamond-mesh, knotless material. A sinkerline is placed by passing twine through themesh openings along the netting edge. Weights are placed at each corner.

CodendFunction

Materials Used

The part of the net where fish are col- Netting material: PE, Raschel type, knotlected and retrieved.

lessTwine (for tying): PA or PE

Description
The codend is usually made of the same netting material used in the net body. It isplaced at the center of the net body. To form the codend, the two sides of a 1 x 1 m
netting are joined to create a cylinder. One end of the cylinder is joined to the net
body. The other end is closed by tying a twine that is passed through the mesh openings. At the end of a fishing operation, the codend is opened by untying the twine.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Batak-batak

The improvised pulley system in a baited lift net batak-batak. It is composed of aseries of pulling lines that pass through the top of bamboo posts and connect to apiece of bamboo pole that is rotated in place.

Platform and Pulley System
Function

Materials Used

The platform houses the improvised pul- Bamboo poles: 1st class, 10-15 pcs
ley system that is used to lower and raise Twine (pulley system): PE
the net.

Twine (for tying): PE and PA

Description
When hauling the net, the lines from the net corners pass over an improvised bamboo
or wooden hanger that is placed atop the bamboo posts and run through a pulley system. The improvised pulley system is made of a piece bamboo pole that serves aslever and PE rope that are attached to the four corners of the net body.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:March to May

Lean Season
Months:July to OctoberAve. catch per day: 8-10 kg

Ave. catch per day:3-5 kgNo. of fishing days: 28-30 days/month

No. of fishing days: 20-28 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Shrimps
Local name: Batod, Pasayan, Sugpo

Mugilidae
Mullets
Local name: Gusaw, Balanak

Examples of Other Species Caught

Portunidae
Blue swimming crab
Local name: Kasag

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga

Portunidae
Indo-Pacific swimming crab

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name:
Bueawis, Danggit

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Sapsap, Aputoe

Terapontidae
Tigerperches
Local name:
Bugaong

Tetraodontidae
Pufferfishes
Local name: Butete
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit
3,000 to 12,000 pesos

Number of fishers
One person

Who constructs?
Fisher himself or by hired labor

Boat used
Usually non motorized

Number of days spent on construction
3-5 daysTime set net
Usually before the shift in tidal currents

Frequency of maintenance
1-2 times per year

Soaking time
2-4 hours

Number of days spent on maintenance
1-2 days

Number of hauls per day or night
1-3 times

Type of maintenanceRepair of net or bamboo post, cleaning

Cost per operation
50-100 pesos per fishing trip to cover
cost of bait and kerosene/electricity (ifusing light as lure). If fisher uses
motorized boat, an additional 50 pesos
for gasoline is spent.

Who performs maintenance?
Mostly by fisher himself, assisted byfamily members

The gear is constructed in areas that are about 3-5 m
deep. Average construction of a batak-batak is about
6,500 pesos. Naturally, the larger the net, the higher
the cost becomes.
Fishing operation is normally conducted by a single
person, often using a non-motorized boat. The gear
may be operated at night or daytime. When fishing atnight, the fisher uses light as an additional lure.
Each fishing operation may last 2-4 hours. Thus, aAn example of an improvised

batak-batak operator may conduct fishing 2-3 times inlight source used in New

a day or night.

Washington-Batan Bay.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A

D

B

E

C

F

A-B: The net is lowered by the fisher (arrow) using an improvised pulley system. The
pulley is placed atop a bamboo platform.
C: Once the net is completely submerged, the fisher ensures that the net stays close to
the bottom. To do this, the corners of the net are pushed against the substrate using abamboo pole. Finally, he spreads ground bivalves (bait) over the submerged net. The
baits shall lure shrimp and fish into the submerged net. When set at night, the fisher
uses light as additional luring device.
D-E: After about 2-4 hours, the net is raised using the pulley system.
F: When net is fully raised, the fisher retrieves catch using a scoop net. When waterlevel is low, he may opt to open the terminal end of the codend and collect captured
fish.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

BARRIER NET
Local Name: Sagpang, Sirada

At a glance
1. A sagpang targets fish that move to the mangrove area during high tide. Whenwater recedes during ebb phase, fish wanting to return to the sea are trappedby the barrier net. Success of fishing operation is highly dependent on tidal cycles.
2. Because the use of the gear is tide-dependent, time of fishing operation varies
according to the time of flood and/or ebb tide.
3. Filter net operators use either small non-motorized or motorized boats to go totheir fishing ground. A few others set their gear close to their house and may
not need a boat during fishing operation.
4. Fishing operation is normally conducted by two persons. The fisherman is aided
by his son, wife, brother or another relative.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Sagpang

B
D

A
C

A - NetB - Headrope

C - Groundrope

D - Post

Net
Function

Materials Used

The netting wall acts as a barrier that Material: PE Raschel knotless or PA
prevents fish from going back into the Mesh opening:sea during ebb tide, thus the name

Usually No. 17“barrier net”.

Also use No. 11, 12, 13, 14, 2274

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Sagpang
Net
Description
The length of the net, which varies from 60 to 600 m, depends on the area that a
fisher wishes to enclose during high tide. Net height (about 2.6 to 3.2 m) is usually 100
meshes.

Posts
Function

Materials Used

The posts serve as pillars for the netting Bamboo or tree branches
wall. It keeps the netting in upright posi-

Type: 3rd classtion and to prevent netting from being

Quantity: 20-200 pcs

carried by the outgoing tidal currents.
Description
Bamboo poles are often used as posts. Fishers may, however, use tree branches tosave on costs. The posts are buried about 1 m deep at about 3 m intervals.

Headrope and Footrope
Function

Materials Used

The headrope and footrope help ensure PE ropethat the net retains an appropriate
shape. In addition, these are used to attach the net to the posts.
Description
The upper meshes of the net are attached to the headrope. The lower meshes of the
netting are attached to the footrope. The headrope and footrope run along the entire
length of the net.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:Lean Season

November to January

Months:June to August

Ave. catch per day: 4-7 kg

Ave. catch per day: 1-2 kg

No. of fishing days: 9-18 days per month

No. of fishing days: 8-12 days per month

Dominant Species Caught

Siganidae
Local name: Bueawis

Siganidae
Local name: Danggit
Gobiidae
Local names:
Bagtis, Ibis, Tanga, Ulinguling

Leiognathidae
Local name: Sapsap, Aputoe

Gerreidae
Local name: Batwanon

Penaeidae
Local names: Pasayan,
Batod, Sugpo

Serranidae
Local name: Inid

Mullidae
Local name: Gusaw,
Balanak

Scatophagidae
Local name: Kilo
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Portunid crabs
Local names(clockwise, from top
right):
Kaeantugas,
Alimango,
Kaeantugas,
Kasag

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Average cost per unit

Number of fishers

3,000 to 8,000 pesos

Usually 1-2 persons; Assisted by a family
memberWho constructs gear?
Usually the fisher himself

Boat used
Usually non-motorized; A few others

Number of days spent on construction

just walk to their fishing ground

6-7 daysTime
Frequency and type of maintenanceSet barrier net: high tide

1-4 times per month

Retrieve catch: low tide

Net repair and cleaning
Time spent
Number of days spent on maintenance

Actual fishing: ~ 0.5 – 2 hours

1-4 days

Transport: ~ 30-60 min
Sort catch: ~ 30 min

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A barrier net is constructed in areas where there is a large fluctuation in water level
due to tides. The gear is often erected around mangrove areas. During low tide, thefootrope is tied to the bottom part of the posts using a separate PE or PA twine. Meanwhile, the upper half of the net remains unattached to the posts. At high tide, the upper half is raised and the headrope is tied to the bamboo posts using PE or PA twine.
To keep the net in contact with the bottom, the footrope is pushed against the bottom.

When water recedes during ebb, the netting panel prevents fish from moving out into
the sea. At low tide, trapped fish, crabs, shrimps and other aquatic organisms are collected by picking or scooping. During a fishing operation, the fisher carries the following accessories: ice chest or basket for fish storage, flashlight in case it is dark, and ascoop net for retrieving fish trapped in pools.

Since the use of the gear is tide-dependent, time of fishing operation varies according
to the time of flood and/or ebb tide. During neap tide aya-ay, barrier net operators do
not go fishing. They usually use the period to make net repairs.

78Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

Chapter 3
Non-Stationary
Fishing Gears
Harold Monteclaro, Ruby Napata,
Liberty Espectato and Ramon Cruz

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

POTS
Local Name: Panggal, Timing, Bubo
At a glance
1. A pot is a passive fishing gear that is made of bamboo and netting. It works byluring target organism into the enclosure.
2. Depending on the design, a pot may have one or more entrances to allow entryof target organisms. The entrance varies in design from a simple slit, a funnelshaped entrance or a non-return valve.
3. Pots are often used to capture crabs, although it may also be used to catch
shrimps and fish. Bait is used to lure these organisms into the pot.
4. The shape of the pot may be circular, rectangular or square.
5. The frame is generally made of bamboo. The netting material is either made up
of bamboo or nylon net with mesh size ranging from 1 to 22 mesh. A plastic
container or a net serves as bait holder.
6. Pots could be set as a group attached to a mainline or fixed individually throughstake. A float (rubber or styrene box) and a sinker (stone or lead) are essential
in pot fishing.
7. Around 6-180 pots are used in a single operation which is usually operated by
one person. In few instances, pot fishing involves 2-3 persons.
8. Fishing operation typically starts early in the morning (3:00 AM) or midafternoon (3:00 PM). Soaking time is generally 10-12 hours.
9. Pots could be operated at any time of the year with peak seasons from March
to May and September to December.
10. Average catch during peak season is 2-4 kg crabs and 1-3 kg fish per fishing trip.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

POTS

Pots vary in design and construction materials. (Top) A rectangular-shaped panggal
made of wooden frame and PE netting with a pair of slit openings at the side.
(Middle) A square-shaped panggal made of bamboo and PE netting with a pair of slit
openings at the opposing sides. (Bottom) A frustum panggal constructed using bamboo and PE netting with a single opening at the top.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

POTS(Top, Left) A cylindrical panggal made of bamboo frame and PA netting with a single
opening at the side. (Top, Right) A rectangular-shaped panggal made of bamboo andPE netting with a pair of non-return valves at the opposite sides. (Middle) Cylindricalpanggal made of bamboo slats. (Bottom) A bubo constructed using bamboo with asingle non-return valve at the side. A panggal usually catches crabs, fish and shells
while a bubo usually catches bigger-sized fish.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pot

Pot designs vary in shape, construction materials and entrance. Arrows indicate
position of entrance according to design.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pot
Frame
Function

Material Used

The frame provides shape to the gear and Wood or bamboo slats
serves as attachment for the net, bait
holder, sinkers and retrieving line.
Description
The frame of a pot varies in shape (circular, rectangular or square). The bamboo slats
or wooden frames are joined using PA or PE twine. A panggal is a small-sized fishinggear with sizes that range from 62-66 cm x 15-32 cm x 21-54 cm (L x W x H). In contrast, a bubo is large-sized, often at 1.5 m x 1.5 m x 1.5 m.

NettingFunction

Materials Used

The net is used to enclose the frame to Either plastic chicken wire, PE, PA or bamtrap fish or crab that has entered the pot.

boo slats

Description
The netting material is attached to the frame using PA or PE twine. Mesh size of the
net ranges from 1-22 cm.

Entrance
Function

Materials Used

The entrance allows a fish or crab to en- Either PE or PA net, plastic chicken wire,
ter the pot. It also serves as an exit.

or a plastic container.

Description
The entrance varies in design from a simple slit, funnel-shaped or one-way valve.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pot
Bait holder
Function

Material Used

Holds the bait; ensures that bait is kept in Either perforated plastic container, bamboo or a net-pouchplace.
Description
The bait holder is attached inside the pot, either at the bottom, center or upper portion of the gear. It is tied to the frame using PA or PE twine. Common materials usedas bait are small fish (e.g., gobies, slipmouths, ambassids, etc), small crabs andshrimps and shells.

Float and Retrieving Line
Function

Material Used

The retrieving line is used to pull the pot PE rope, 4 mm diameterto the surface. The float marks the site Float: Empty plastic container, polystywhere the fishing gears are set.

rene, or Bamboo, 1 pc

Sinkers
Function

Material Used

Sinkers are used to keep the gear sub- Lead sinker or stone, 1-4 pcs
Bamboo stick (if pot is staked into themerged to the bottom.
substrate)
Description
Sinkers are attached inside the pot, usually at the corners, using PA or PE twine. Eachsinker may weigh about 0.25 to 0.60 kg. In few cases, the pot is secured firmly in placeusing a bamboo stick.
85

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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:Lean Season

March to May;

Months:Sep to Dec

Ave. catch per day: 1-1.6 kg

Ave. catch per day: 2-4 kg

June to August

No. of fishing days: 16-22 days/month

No. of fishing days: 23-27 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Portunidae
Blue swimming crab
Local name: Kasag

Penaeidae
Shrimps
Local name: Batod

Batrachoididae
Toadfishes
Local name: Ugok

Portunidae
Mud crab
Local name: Alimango

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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Examples of Other Species Caught

Various crabs

87

Squillidae
Mantis shrimps
Local name: Pitik-pitik

Nassariidae
Sea snails
Local name: Tamisan

Palaemonidae
Freshwater shrimp
Local name: Ulang

Serranidae
Groupers
Local name: Inid

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
Maintenance
Average cost per unit

Fishing Operation
Number of fishers: Usually one person

41 to 60 pesos
Boat used: Usually non-motorized
Who constructs gear?
Mostly by fisher himself

Time pot is set
Usually around 3:00 to 4:00 in the

Number of days spent on construction

afternoon; sometimes around 3:00 AM

A skilled person can construct 10-20
units in a day.

Time pot is retrieved
Around 4:00 to 5:00 AM

Frequency of maintenance
Usually once a week

(if set late afternoon)
Around 3:00 PM(if set early morning)

Number of days spent on maintenance
1/2 day

Soaking time
Usually 12 hours

Type of maintenanceNet mending, cleaning, frame

Total time spent fishing: ~ 4-7 hrs

replacement
Accessories used
Gear usage

Flashlight

A pot may be used for 3 years as

Scoop net

long as it is used and maintained
properly.

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

A pot lures fish or crab using bait. Commonly used bait materials are small fish,crabs and shells that are caught by stationary fishing gears such as tigbacoe,
tangab or saluran. The bait is chopped and placed in a netting pouch (left) or
inside perforated plastic containers (right). Fishing operation is highly dependent on availability of bait. During days when operators of tigbacoe, tangab or
saluran stop fishing because of slow to moderate tidal currents, the supply ofbait materials decreases thus price of bait increases. The increase in bait prices
often prompt pot fisher to suspend fishing operations.
Pot fishing often involves
the use of about 50-200
units panggal. These gears
are often stacked on theboat’s outriggers in order tosave space.

A panggal fisher usually conducts fishing by himself. Before leaving to set the pots, thepots have already been baited. The pots may be set individually or as a series with amainline. A float is attached at both ends of the mainline to serve as marker. After setting the pots, the fisher returns home. Soaking time is about 12 hours. He returns tothe site where he had set the pots and hauls the units back to the boat. After retrieval,
he returns home.
At the landing area, he carries the fishing gears back to his house where catch is takenout from the panggal. With the aid of family members, catch is sorted, weighed andsold to middlemen.
89Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

CRAB LIFT NET
Local Name: Bintol

At a glance
1. A bintol is a passive fishing gear used mainly to trap crabs. It is composed of abamboo frame and netting material.
2. To lure crabs, the gear is baited with chopped fish. The bait is placed inside abait holder made of bamboo.
3. Usually there is only one person performing the fishing operation. A fisher usually employs about 30 units bintol per operation.
4. Fishing operation is performed at high tide. Fishing is conducted early morningor late afternoon. Each fishing operation normally lasts for 4 hours.
5. A bintol costs PhP 21-24 per unit.
6. A bintol has a simple design and is easy to construct. The fisher usually makes
his own bintol. A skilled fisher can construct about 20-30 units bintol in an hour.

90Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintol

C

D

E

A
A—Frame
B—Net
C—Bait holder
D—Sinker
E—Retrieving line

B

Frame
Function

Material Used

The frame provides shape to the gear and Bamboo slats, 2 pcs
serves as attachment for the net, bait
holder, sinkers and retrieving line.
Description
Each slat is about 60-70 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The two slats are joined at the center using PA or PE twine for tying.

Weights
Function

Material Used

Sinkers are used to keep the gear at the Lead sinker or stone, 4-8 pcs
substrate.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Bintol
Weights
Description
Sinkers are attached at the tips of the bamboo frame using nylon twine.

NettingFunction

Materials Used

The net is used to entangle crab as the Netting panel
gear is lifted to the surface.

Material: PA
Dimensions: ~ 0.57 -0.64 m
Mesh size: ~6 cm

Description
The sheet of netting has a square shape. Each corner of the netting is attached to one
end of the bamboo slat. A nylon twine is used to tie the netting to the bamboo frame.

Float and Retrieving Line
Function

Material Used

The retrieving line is used to pull the bin- PE rope, 4 mm diameter
tol to the surface. The float marks the site Float: Empty plastic container, styropor,
where the fishing gears are set.

or Bamboo, 1 pc

Bait holder
Function

Material Used

Holds the bait; ensures that bait is kept in Empty plastic container or bamboo, 1 pc
place.
Description
The bait holder is attached at the point where the two bamboo slats are joined together. It is tied to the bamboo frame using PA or PE twine.
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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:Lean Season

March to May;

Months:June to August

Sep to Dec

Ave. catch per day: 0.9-1.6 kg

Ave. catch per day: 2-4 kg

No. of fishing days: 10-22 days per

No. of fishing days: 12-25 days per

month

month

Dominant Species Caught

Portunus pelagicus
Blue swimming crab
Local name: Kasag

Charybdis feriatus
Crucifix crab
Local name: Kurusan

Examples of Other Species Caught

Thalamita crenata
Crenate crab
Local name: Kaeantugas
Scylla sp.
Mangrove crab
Local name: Alimango
93

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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
Maintenance
Average cost per unit

Fishing Operation
Number of fishers: Usually one person

21-24 pesos
Boat used: Usually non-motorized
Who constructs gear?
Fisher himself

Time start fishing
Fishing is conducted during flood tide,

Number of days spent on construction

preferably in the morning.

2-3 days
Total time spent fishing: ~ 4-7 hrs
Frequency of maintenance
Usually once a week
Number of days spent on maintenance
1/2 day
Type of maintenanceNet mending, cleaning, frame
replacement

A crab lift net is operated in shallow waters. This allows fisher to use a non-motorizedboat to conduct fishing.
Bintol fishing is conducted during a flood tide, that is, when water level is rising. It isduring this period when crabs often go out from their shelters to go feeding. Bintol operators often prefer to conduct fishing operations when flood tide occurs at daytime,
although they may also go fishing when flood tide starts early morning.

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

Bintol fishing is often conducted by a single fisher aboard a non-motorized boat. During fishing operation, the fisher normally sets 15-30 units bintol.

Upon reaching the fishing ground, the bintol fisher places bait into the bait holder.
Common materials used as bait are fish with low commercial value such as juvenile
fishes or eel. Some fishers use frog as bait. The bait holder is attached at the center ofthe bamboo slat using nylon twine. The bintol is then set to the bottom. A float is attached in each bintol to serve as marker that allows the fisher to easily identify the sitewhere the gear was set. He usually sets the baited gears in a circular or rectangularpattern for easy retrieval.

Soaking time is around 20-30 minutes. Hauling the gear requires some amount of skill
as the crabs may swim away while the gear is being retrieved. When fishing operationis performed early morning while it is still dark, a flashlight is used for lighting. The captured crabs are placed in a bucket. The same fishing procedure is repeated as long as
there is enough bait material left for use. The entire fishing procedure may last for 4
hours.
95

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GILLNETS
Local Name: Panti, Pukot
At a glance
1. The basic component used in gillnet construction is a “wall” or panel of meshes
made of nylon. The panel is reinforced on all sides using twine.
2. Gillnets used inside an estuary widely vary in design and use. They may either
be set near the surface or at the bottom. They could be set, fixed or allowed todrift with the current. The differences mainly result from the type of fish being
targeted by the fisher.
3. To maintain the net shape when soaked underwater, floats and sinkers are fastened at regular intervals to the floatline and sinkerline, respectively. Anothergillnet variety is kept in position using bamboo stakes.
4. Fishing operation varies according to gillnet variant. Some gillnets are operated
daytime, others are used at night.
5. Soaking time varies according to type of gillnet variant. It may range from anhour to one whole night.
6. In one variant (i.e., pamanti sibot), a fisher creates noise by striking the water
surface with a pulse stick. This is believed to surprise fish and make it swim erratically until it gets gilled.
7. Some gillnet variants target specific species such as crabs, shrimps or mullets.
Other species caught include rabbitfishes, goatfish, slipmouths and other estuarine fishes.
8. Fishing operation usually involves two persons. The assisting person is usually
the fisher’s son or wife.
9. Boats used may either be motorized or non motorized.
10. The cost of the gear varies according to length of gillnet to be constructed.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GILLNETSGILLNET VARIANTS
Type

Local Name

Target Species

Surface drift
Encircling
Bottom drift
Bottom set

Palutaw
Pamanti-Sibot
Pakalot
Palugdang
Pamanti-ibis
Pangkasag
Patuloy, harang

Mullets
Rabbitfishes
Penaeids
Siganids, crabs, demersals
Slipmouth
Crabs
Crabs, penaeids, rabbitfishes

Crab entangling
Bottom fixed97

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Panti
D

B

C

E

A

A - Net body D - Headrope
B - BuoyE - FootropeC - Anchor

Net Body (Netting)
Function

Materials Used

The netting acts like a wall that cap- Nylon (PA), 1 plytures fish that tries to pass through theMesh opening
invisible net.
Encircling: Usually 7 cm
Bottom-set: Usually 7 cm
Crab entangling: Usually 8 cm
Diameter
Encircling: 0.20 mm
Bottom set and crab entangling: 0.15 mm
Description
The length of the gillnet ranges from 150-300 m (encircling net), about 200 m (bottom
set gillnet), or about 100 m (crab entangling net). Net height is usually 50 meshes(encircling and bottom set gillnet) or 16 meshes (crab entangling net).

Headrope
Function

Materials Used

The headrope gives the net its shape. Material: PE
It also provides attachment for the Size: Usually No. 4
floats.
Diameter: 2.2 mm
Description
Gillnets in the estuary have two pieces twine as headrope. The first twine is where thenetting is hung. The second twine or the floatline is where the floats are attached.
Both lines are joined together using PE or PA twines.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Panti

The floatline with rubber floats attached.

The sinkerline with lead sinkers.

Footrope
Function

Materials Used

The footrope gives the net its shape. It
also provides attachment for the sinkers.

Material: PE
Size: Usually No. 4
Diameter: 2.2 mm

Description
Gillnets in the estuary have two pieces twine as footrope. The first twine passes
through the lower meshes of the net. The second twine or the sinkerline is where thesinkers are attached. Both lines are joined together using PE or PA twines.

FloatsFunction

Materials Used

The floats provide buoyancy to the net. Cut-out rubber (7x2x1 cm)
Description
The floats are attached to the floatline using PA. The interval between each rubber
float is about 60-70 cm (encircling) or 50-110 cm (bottom set and crab entangling).

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Panti
Sinkers
Function

Materials Used

The sinkers ensure that the net opens Lead, cylindrical (44.3x7.3 mm)vertically underwater.
Description
The cylindrical lead sinkers are attached to the sinkerline. A cylindrical sinker is hollow
at the center to allow the sinkerline to pass through. The sinker is further tied in placeusing PA twine. The interval between each sinker is about 18-22 cm (encircling gillnet)
or 25-45 cm (bottom set and crab entangling net).

A typical buoy used in the Philippines is an empty plastic bottle (left). The anchors used in a gillnet are ~1-kg stones tied with PE rope (right).

Buoys and Markers
Function

Materials Used

The buoys are usually used to mark the Empty plastic bottle, 2 pcs.
site where the net is deployed.
Bamboo pole, 2 pcs
Sack, nylon cloth or tarpaulin
Description
Each buoy is attached to each end of the headrope. Attached to a buoy is a marker toeasily identify the presence of a submerged fishing gear. The marker is usually madeof a colored nylon cloth, sack or tarpaulin that is fixed on a short pole which in turn istied to the buoy to keep the marker erect.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pamanti Sibot
Anchors
Function

Materials Used

The anchors keep the net firmly in Stone, 2 pcs.
place.
Description
Two pieces of stone, weighing about 0.5-1 kg each, are often used as anchors. The anchors are attached to each end of the footrope.

Pulse Stick (Tumbok)
Function

Materials Used

The pulse stick is used by fisher to cre- Bamboo (for handle)
ate sound while fishing. It is said to Coconut husk or bamboo (for banger)
drive fish into the gillnet.
Description
The fisher strikes the water surface using the pulse stick to create sound. As his companion paddles or maneuvers the boat forward, the fisher continues to pound the water surface. The pulse stick is used in an encircling gillnet (pamanti sibot) operation.

The pulse stick is composed of a handle (made ofbamboo) and a banger (made of bamboo, coconut husk, or any other appropriate material.
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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season
Months:Lean Season

February to May

Months:July to November

Ave. catch per day: 3-5 kg

Ave. catch per day: 1-3 kg

No. of fishing days: 24-28 days/month

No. of fishing days: 18-24 days/month

Dominant Species Caught

Siganidae
Rabbitfish
Local name: Bueawis,
Danggit, Mubead

Portunidae
Blue swimming crabs
Local name: Kasag

Mugilidae
MulletLocal name: Gusaw, balanak

Leiognathidae
Slipmouth
Local name: Sapsap

Gerreidae
MojarraLocal name: Batwanon

Nassariidae
Sea snail
Local name: Tamisan

Penaeidae
Tiger prawn
Local name: Sugpo

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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
Maintenance
Cost per unit

Fishing Operation

Number of fishers: 2

Encircling: 4,000 to 5,000 pesos
Bottom set: ~5,000 pesos

Who helps in the fishing operation:

Crab entangling: ~3,000 pesos

A family member;
Usually the wife or son

Who constructs?
Usually by fisher himself

Boat used: Usually non motorized

Number of days spent on construction

Encircling Gillnet

2-7 daysTime fishing starts: Before sunrise
Frequency of maintenanceTime spent for one operation: ~15 min

Every week to once a monthFishing operation: 5:00 AM-12:00 PM
Time finished fishing: Around noon

Number of days spent on maintenanceTotal time spent fishing: ~ 8 hrs

1 day
Bottom set Gillnet and Crab Entangling
Type of maintenanceNet

Net repair, cleaning
Time net is set: Late afternoon
Who performs maintenance?
Mostly by fisher himself, assisted byfamily members

103Time net is retrieved: Before sunrise

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

Fishing using an encircling gillnet. One member rows the boat from one
end to another end of the net that has been set. The second member
bangs the water surface using a pulse stick.

Fishing using an Encircling Gillnet
An encircling gillnet is set in shallow water. The net spans the entire water depth fromthe surface to the bottom. A small boat is used to set the net with two or more fishers
onboard. The fishers often encircle a stationary structure such as an oyster culture area
where fish tends to aggregate.
Once the entire net has been set, one of the fishers onboard bangs the water surface
using a pulse stick (locally called tumbok) while the other fisher rows the boat from one
end to another end of the net. The splashing of the water surface is believed to scarefish so that they are gilled or entangled. Thereafter, the net is manually hauled onboard the boat. A single fishing operation may take 15-20 minutes.
After an operation, the fishers set their net in another area and repeat the fishing cycle. The entire fishing operation may last 6-8 hours in a day to catch a good amount of
fish.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
Fishing using a Crab Entangling Gillnet
The crab gillnet is set at the bottom before sunset. Fishing operation is normally conducted by two persons. One person sets the net while the other person rows the boat.
In setting the net, one of the anchors is released followed by one end of the net. The
netting is arranged aboard the boat in such a way that as the boat moves forward, thenet is slowly released. This procedure normally takes about 10-15 min. After the entire
net has been set, the buoy is attached to the end of the headrope.
Soaking time is often overnight. Early the next day, the fisher returns to the area where
he had set the net. He initially retrieves the buoy and slowly hauls the net by hand.
While retrieving the gear, he removes entangled crab from the net. This is done to prevent entanglement of the netting. Sometimes, the net is torn especially when crab isdifficult to remove from entanglement. When they have reached the landing area andwith the catch sent to the buyers, the fisher arranges the net to ensure easy setting
during the next operation.

Gillnets that are soaked and left overnight need to be marked. To do this, local fishers attach a kerosene lamp to the buoy. The kerosene lamp is kept afloat by placing
it atop a small bamboo raft. The lamp is lighted to warn other fishers that a gillnet
has been set in the area. It also allows the fisher to easily identify the area of thesubmerged gear when he returns the next day.
105Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

A fisher hauling a gillnet

Fishing using a Bottom-set Gillnet
A pantihan palugdang is a gillnet type that is set at the bottom. The net is set late afternoon. Fishing operation is normally conducted by two persons. One person sets thenet while the other person rows the boat. In setting the net, one of the anchors is released followed by one end of the net. The netting is arranged aboard the boat in sucha way that as the boat moves forward, the net is slowly released. This procedure normally takes about 10-15 min. After the entire net has been set, the buoy is attached tothe end of the floatline.
Soaking time is often overnight. Early the next day, the fisher returns to the area where
he set the net. He initially retrieves the buoy and slowly hauls the net by hand. While
retrieving the gear, he removes gilled fish or debris that may been entangled in thenet. Once the net has been completely hauled, the fishers return to their landing sitewhere he arranges the net to ensure easy setting during the next operation.

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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

TRAMMEL NET
Local Name: Pakalot

At a glance
1. The trammel nets used in the New Washington-Batan estuaries are composedof two nettings joined together at the headrope and footrope.
2. The two netting panels have different mesh openings – one has a larger meshsize than the other.
3. There are two trammel net variants in these estuaries. The first variant is a bottom drift trammel net, locally called pakalot. The second variant is a bottom set
trammel net, locally called palubog.
4. A pakalot primarily targets penaeid shrimps while the palubog targets rabbitfishes, spotted scats and slipmouths.
5. A pakalot does not have anchors to allow the net to drift with the water current.

107Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pakalot/ Palubog
G

E

C
B

A

D
F
A - First netting

E - Float

B - Second netting

F - Sinker

C - Headrope

G - BuoyD - Footrope

Net Body (Netting)
Function

Materials Used

The two netting panels act like a Nylon (PA), 2 ply
pocket that entangles fish.

Mesh opening 1st net: 10.2 cm
Mesh opening 2nd net: 3.4 – 5 cm (pakalot)
5 - 7 cm (palubog)
Diameter: 0.15 – 20 mm

Description
The net length of a trammel net ranges from 70 – 200 m. Net height is 50 meshes.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pakalot/ Palubog
Headrope
Function

Materials Used

The headrope 1) helps ensure that the net PE
maintains its appropriate shape, 2) pro-

Size: Usually No. 4

vides attachment for the floats, and 3) joins

Diameter: 2.2 mm

the two nettings into one fishing gear.
Description
A trammel net has three pieces twine that form the headrope. The first and second
twines are where the uppermost meshes of the two nettings are hung. The third
twine is the floatline where the floats are attached. Finally, all lines are joined together using PA twine.

Footrope
Function

Materials Used

The footrope 1) helps ensure correct net PE
shape, 2) provides attachment for the sink-

Size: Usually No. 4 or 5

ers so that the net opens vertically under-

Diameter: 2.2. mm

water, and 3) joins the two nettings into
one fishing gear.
Description
A trammel net has three pieces twine that form the footrope. The first and second
twines are passed through the lowermost meshes of the two nettings. The third twine
is the sinkerline where the sinkers are attached. Finally, all lines are joined together
using PA twine.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Pakalot/ Palubog
FloatsFunction

Materials Used

The floats provide buoyancy to the net.
Description

Cut-out rubber (5x2x1.5 cm)

The floats are tied into the floatline using PA. The interval between each rubber float
is about 100 cm, although this may range from 50-100 cm.

Sinkers
Function

Materials Used

The sinkers ensure that the net opens Leadvertically underwater.
Description
The lead sinkers are attached to the sinkerline using PA. The interval between eachsinker is about 30 cm, although it may range from 25 to 45 cm.

Buoys and Anchors
Function

Materials Used

The buoys are usually used to mark the Buoy: Empty plastic bottle, 2 pcs
site where the net is deployed. The an-

1 m bamboo pole. 2 pcs

chors ensure that the gear is set in place

Flag made of plastic, 2 pcs(for the palubog only).

Buoyline: PE
Anchor: Stones, 2 pcs, 0.5-1 kg each
Anchorline: PE

Description
A buoy is composed of a plastic flag attached to a bamboo pole which in turn is tied toan empty plastic bottle to keep the pole erect and afloat. Each buoy is attached toboth ends of the headrope. Similarly, each anchor is attached to the both ends of thefootrope.

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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Tiger prawn
Local name: Sugpo

Portunidae
Blue swimming crabs
Local name: Kasag

Scatophagidae
Scats
Local name: Kilo, Kikiro

111

Penaeidae
Greasyback shrimp
Local name: Batod

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Sapsap

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Bueawis, Danggit, Mubead

Gerreidae
Mojarras
Local name: Batwanon

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
Maintenance
Cost per unit

Fishing Operation
Number of fishers: 2

5,000 pesos
Who helps in the fishing operation:
Who constructs?

A family member such as wife or son

Usually by fisher himself
Boat used: Usually non motorized
Number of days spent on construction
2-7 daysTime start fishing
When there is ebb or flood tide

Maintenance
1 day, every week to once a monthTime spent during each fishing trip

Net repair, cleaning

Traveling: ~ 1 hours
Fishing: 4-6 hours
Total time spent fishing: ~5-7 hours

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A trammel net is tide dependent. It is best used when there is a strong water current
present in the estuary. The trammel net is set and hauled manually. The shrimps, crabs
and fish are entangled in a pocket of small mesh webbing between the two layers of
netting. Common catch are bottom-dwelling species such as shrimps, tiger prawn,
crabs, rabbitfishes and slipmouths.
A pakalot is set in waters about 5-10 m deep during ebb or flood tide. The net is allowed to drift for about 1 hour before retrieval. The catch is taken off the net and thegear is once again set. Fishing operation may take 4-6 hours depending on the tidal cycle and water current.
A palubog is often set during high tide to reduce net damage because of boat navigation. After 4-6 hours, the fisher returns to the submerged gear and begins to retrieve
the net.
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DRIVE-IN NET
Local Name: Ugnat

At a glance
1. A drive-in net is an active fishing gear which employs a scareline that herds
fish towards a netting.
2. The primary target species of ugnat are gobies. Other species caught are
crabs, slipmouth and shrimps.
3. Fishing operation is usually conducted by a single person.
4. Peak season of ugnat is from September to December. Lean season is fromMarch to August.
5. Average catch varies from 7 kg during peak season to 2 kg during lean season.
6. Construction cost is about 2,000 pesos. The longer the net, the higher theconstruction cost becomes.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of an Ugnat

B

A

A
B

C

A—Net
B—Post
C—Scareline
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of an Ugnat
Net
Function

Materials Used

The net traps the fish.

HDPE Raschel net, knotless
May also use Kuralon, PE, PA
Netting number: No. 22
Skirtline: PE

Description
The triangular-shaped net is about 2 m high and 4 m long. The skirtline maintains theshape of the net.

Bamboo Posts
Function

Bamboo Used

The posts serve as attachment for the net Type: 3rd classand scareline.
Quantity: 3-5 pcs
Description
The bamboo posts are staked about 0.5 m into the substrate. The posts are placed ineach corner of the triangular-shaped net.

Scareline
Function

Materials Used

The scareline drags the substrate and Line Material: PE
herds fish into the waiting net.
Line Number: No. 20 (mode)
Length: 200 m (mode)
Plastic strips: usually plastic (may use buri,
sack, or combination)
Length of plastic strips: 30 cm (mode)
Description
The scareline is composed of a mainline (usually PE and 200 m long) and plastic strips(30 cm long) that are spaced at about 30 cm interval.
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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season

Lean Season

Months:Sep to Dec

Months:Mar to Aug

Ave. catch per day:6-7 kgAve. catch per day:1-3 kgNo. of fishing days:

25 days per month

No. of fishing days:

21 days per month

Dominant Species Caught

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga

Examples of Other Species Caught

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Sapsap,
AputoePortunidae
Blue crab
Local name: Kasag

Penaeidae
Shrimps
Local name: Batod

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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Average cost per unit

Number of fishers

2,000 pesos

Usually one person

Larger nets cost more

Sometimes assisted by a son or
another family member

Who constructs gear?
Fisher himself, assisted by family

Boat usedmembers

Usually non-motorized
Some use motorized boats

Number of days spent on construction

A few others just walk to their fishing

5-6 daysgroundFrequency of maintenance

Time

Usually once a month

Leaves house: dawn or early morning
Finish fishing: ~ 10:00-11:00 AM

Number of days spent on maintenance
1-2 daysTime spent
Actual fishing: ~ 4-5 hours

Type of maintenanceTransport: ~ 30-60 min

Net repair and cleaning

Sort catch: ~ 30 min
Total time spent fishing: ~ 4-6 hrs

Fishing Accessories
Item

Function

Scoop net

To scoop fish from net

Ice chest/ Bucket/ Buri basket

To temporarily store caught fish

Flashlight or kerosene lamp

For illumination (if fishing is conducted
early morning)

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
Ugnat fishing is conducted at daytime and during low tide. The fisher decides whicharea he will go fishing and travels to the fishing ground aboard a boat, although somefishers choose to conduct fishing near their home so that a boat becomes unnecessary.
The fisherman initially stakes three bamboo posts. Each side of the triangular-shaped
net is attached to a bamboo post to keep the net stationary. The fisher sets thescareline in a semi-circular manner about 50-100 m from the net. He then pulls bothends of the scareline from behind the net. As the fisher pulls the scareline towards thenet, the area enclosed by the scareline decreases. When the rest of the scareline
reaches the mouth of the net, the fisherman lifts the bottom of the net to trap fish.
Fish is scooped from the net and placed in buckets or containers. The ugnat fisher repeats the same fishing process as long as the water depth does not exceed chest high.
Ugnat fishing is an active fishing gear. The fish is herded towards the waiting net using ascareline. The scareline is madeof plastic strips tied to a PE line.
This fishing gear is used in the
midstream areas of the estuarythat have muddy substrates.

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DRIVE-IN NET
Local Name: Sigbi

At a glance
1. A sigbi is another type ofa drive-in net.
2. The primary target species are mullets.
3. Fishing operation employs 4-5 persons aboard
a motorized boat.
4. The gear has two principal components - a net body and a scareline.
5. The net body is about 20-30 m long. A netting panel that serves as a bottom
covering is attached to the footrope.
6. The net is held in place by 2-3 persons.
7. The scareline is a PE rope where coconut fiber is attached at an interval of
about 1 meter.
8. Two other persons hold the scareline and as they move towards the net themoving scareline herds fish towards the waiting net.
9. When the scareline meets the net body, the bottom of net is raised to trapfish.
10. Each fishing operation may take about 30-60 minutes. The sigbi fishers
spend a total of 4-6 hours in a fishing day depending on the tidal cycle.
119Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

SEINE
Local Name: Hila-hila, Panabyosan

At a Glance
1. A hila-hila or a panabyosan is a fishing gear that captures fish by seining the water column.
2. The gear is made of a long netting panel. Both ends of the net are attached to abamboo pole.
3. Two persons are required in this fishing method. Each person holds the bamboo
at both ends of the net.
4. The gear is used in shallow waters, often not more than chest-deep.
5. Target species of a hila-hila are mullets, slipmouth, mojarras and other fish thatare present in the sandy and shallow estuarine waters.
6. A panabyosan often targets tabios or goby larvae, hence the name of the fishing gear.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Hila-hila, Panabyosan

C

B

D

A - Bamboo pole
B - Netting
C - Headrope with floats for hila-hila (without floats for panabyosan)
D - Footrope with sinkers for hila-hila (without sinkers for panabyosan)

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Hila-hila, Panabyosan
Net Body (Netting)
Function

Materials Used

The net body captures species that have Nylon (PA) (for hila-hila)
been enclosed by the netting wall.

HDPE (for panabyosan)
Mesh opening: mostly No. 13 & 14

Description
The length of a hila-hila net is about 100-200 m. Net height is 100 meshes. A panabyosan netting is shorter at about 10-20 m.

Headrope
Function

Materials Used

The headrope helps ensure that the net Material: PE
maintains its appropriate shape. It also Diameter: 4.5 mm
provides attachment for the floats.
Description
The headrope in a hila-hila is composed of two pieces twine. The first twine is where
the netting is hung. The second twine is the floatline where floats are attached. Finally, both lines are joined together using PA twines.

Floats (for Hila-hila only)
Function

Materials Used

The floats ensure that the net opens ver-Rubbertically underwater.
Description
Floats are tied to the floatline using PA. The interval between each float is about 20
cm.
122Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Hila-hila
Footrope
Function

Materials Used

The footrope helps ensure correct net Material: PE
shape. It also provides attachment for the Diameter: 4.5 mm
sinkers so that the net opens verticallyunderwater.
Description
The footrope in a hila-hila is composed of two pieces twine. The lower meshes of the
net are attached to the first twine. The second twine is the sinkerline where sinkers
are tied. Finally, both lines are joined together using PE or PA twines.

Sinkers (for Hila-hila only)
Function

Materials Used

The sinkers ensure that the net opens Leadvertically underwater.
Description
Lead sinkers are tied to the sinkerline using PA. The interval between each sinker isabout 20 cm.

Bamboo pole
Function

Materials Used

Provides support to keep net in proper Bamboo, 2 pcs
shape. Also used in handling net during Length: 1.5 - 2 m
seining process.
Description
A bamboo pole is placed at each end of the net. This is attached to the headrope andfootrope.
123Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

FISH CATCH INFORMATION

The dominant catch of a hila-hila are mullets, slipmouths and mojarras. Other species
caught are whitings, halfbeaks, blue swimming crabs and rabbitfishes.

The dominant catch of a panabyosan are fish larvae locally called tabios (see picture
above). These are mostly goby larvae, although clupeid, engraulid and other fish larvae
may also be caught.
Also caught are juvenile and sub-adult mullets, gobies, mojarras, cardinalfishes andambassids.

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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Ave. Cost per unit

Number of fishers:

2,000 to 4,300 pesos

Usually 2 persons

Who constructs?

Who helps in the fishing operation:

Fisher himself, may be assisted by family

Usually a relative, such as the wife, son

members
Boat used:
Ave. no. of days spent on construction

Boat is often not used during operation.

3-4 days

Boat is used to transfer fishing grounds.

Type of maintenanceTime fisher sets net:

Net repair

Early morning to late afternoon

Frequency of maintenanceTime fisher retrieves net:

1-4 times a month

Each operation may last 10-20 min.

Who performs maintenance?

Total time spent fishing:

Fisher himself

3-4 hours

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
Panabyosan
Fishing is performed by two persons. This fishing gear is often set in shallow areas including spaces within a mangrove area. Each person carries the bamboo pole attached
to both ends of the net (see pictures next page).
With the net set in semi-circular pattern, the two fishers walk towards the shore area
ensuring that the footrope is touching the substrate. After seining the water for about
3-5 min, the footrope is raised to trap fish. The fish caught is transferred to a containerand fishing operation resumes again.
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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

A panabyosan fishing operation

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
A hila-hila is operated in a shallow area. Fishing ground is usually sandy, as the gear is
towed towards the shore.
A hila-hila is operated by two persons. One person stays on the shore holding one endof the net. The other person sets the net while walking. The net is set in a semi-circle
pattern. The enclosed area by the net depends on the net length.

A

D

B

E

C

F

Once the entire length of net has been set, the second person takes hold of the second
end of the net and moves to the shore. Both fishers will start pulling the net towards
the shore. As the net is pulled, the enclosed area decreases and the two fishers movenearer each other. By the time the entire net has been pulled towards the shore, thetwo fishers have already reunited. The footrope is raised to capture the fish that has
been enclosed. Fish caught are stored in a bucket or polystyrene container. The same
fishing procedure is repeated, often in another area. After fishing, catch is broughthome for sorting and selling.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

PUSH NET
Local Name: Sagudsong, sagudsod

At a glance
1. A sagudsod is a portable fishing gear that looks like a big scoop net with a fixed
or collapsible frame made of bamboo.
2. The netting material used is fine-meshed primarily to capture shrimp. Other
species caught are sergestid shrimp Acetes, crabs, gobies and other small fishes.
3. A sagudsod is operated by a single person.
4. Fishing operation can be operated either at low or high tide, early morning or
dusk.
5. Fishing operation is performed by walking along the fishing ground. A boat isused to travel to or transfer fishing grounds.
6. A single unit costs about 600-1,000 pesos to construct. Usually the fisher himself makes his own gear.

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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Sagudsong

B
C
A
D

E
A - NetD - Footrope

B - Bamboo Frame
E - “Slippers”

C - Codend

NettingFunction

Materials Used

The net is used to sieve the water column 1. Netting
to capture fish.

Type: Pamo, Polarex, Kuralon, Nylon
Mesh opening: No. 11 – 28,
usually No. 22
2. Twine (for tying): PE or PA

Description
The netting is usually 3 m wide and 4 m long. This is tied to the bamboo poles using
PA or PE twine.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Sagudsong
Frame
Materials Used

Function

The frame maintains the shape of the

Bamboo, 2 pcs, 3rd classnet. It is used by fisher for handling.
Description
A pair of collapsible bamboo poles that are about 3 m long. The poles are arranged
like a pair of scissors where the net body is attached.
CodendMaterials Used

Function

Part of the gear where captured fish is HDPE Raschel net, diamond mesh, knotretained.

less

Description
The codend is usually 3-4 m long. A PA or PE twine is used to tie the terminal end.

Footrope
Function

Materials Used

The footrope makes contact with the sub-Twine: PA or PE

strate as the gear is pushed forward, thus Lead sinkers, 6 cm interval
surprised shrimp and fish jump into thenet .
Description
Both ends of the footrope are attached to the lower end of the bamboo frame.

Slippers
Function

Material Used

The “slippers” allow the gear to be easily Metal screw, 1 pc
pushed forward against the substrate.

Improvised wooden slippers, 2 pcs

Description
The wooden “slippers” ensure the smooth pushing movement of the push net against
the substrate.
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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Peak Season

Lean Season

Months: Sep to Dec; Mar to Jun

Months: Apr to Aug

Ave. catch per day: 2-7 kg

Ave. catch per day: 0.5-1 kg

No. of fishing days: 4- 30 days per month No. of fishing days: 4- 28 days per month

Dominant Species Caught

Penaeidae
Shrimps
Local name: Batod

Example of Other Species Caught

Sergestidae

Penaeidae

Portunidae

Sergestid shrimps

Tiger prawn

Blue swimming crab

Local name: Banlag

Local name: Sugpo

Local name: Kasag

Gobiidae
GobiesLocal name: Tanga, Bagtis, Piyagot
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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Average cost per unit
600-1,000 pesos

Number of fishers:
Usually one person

Who constructs gear?
Fisher himself

Boat used
Usually non-motorized
Some may use a bamboo raft
A few others walk to fishing groundNumber of days spent on construction
2-3 days
Estimated gear life span
~3 yearsTime start fishing
During low tide
Fishing continues as long as water levelremains chest highFrequency and type of maintenance
Usually once a week
Net mending and repair

Total time spent fishing: ~ 2-5 hrs

DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION

Fishing operation using a push net is performed early morning or late afternoon along
shallow waters. Shrimp and fish are caught by the “pushing” action and the contact of
the footrope along the substrate.
Fishing operation is usually performed by one person. Fishing lasts for about 2-5 hours.
When fishing early morning or early evening, the fisher often uses an improvised
headlight to provide illumination.
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ENCIRCLING NET WITH THE USE
OF FISH SHELTER
Local Name: Gango

At a Glance
1. Gango is a fishing method that utilizes a fish shelter, which functions as a fish
aggregating device.
2. Target species are rabbitfish, scats, and other fish that aggregate in the shelter.
3. The shelter is constructed using materials such as tree branches, bamboo twigs
and used tires.
4. About 2 weeks after the shelter has been constructed, the gango fisher encloses the shelter with a net.
5. Fishing operation generally requires one fisher.
6. A non motorized boat is used during the operation.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Gango

Shelter
Function

Materials Used

The shelter is a fish aggregating device.

Bamboo twigs, tree branches, used tires,wooden debris

Description
The shelter is set at the bottom. The area occupied by the shelter may range from 416 m2. The quantity of materials needed to erect a shelter depends on the shelterarea.

Net body
Function

Materials Used

The net is used to enclose the shelter and HDPE Raschel net knotless
trap fish that have aggregated.
Description
The length of the net ranges from 40 to 60 m. Net height is about 2 m.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Gango
Codend (Puyo)
Function

Materials Used

Fish is captured at the codend of the net.

HDPE Raschel net knotless

Description
The codend is located at the central portion of the net body. The length of the codend
is about 2 m. The terminal end of the codend is closed by tying a piece of twine.

Headrope
Function

Materials Used

Provides support to maintain proper PE
shape of the net; for attachment of floats.
Description
The headrope is composed of 2 pieces twine. The first twine is where the netting ishung. The second twine, which is the floatline, is where the floats are attached. Finally, both lines are joined together using PE or PA twines.

Footrope
Function

Materials Used

Provides support to maintain shape of the PE
net; for attachment of sinkers.
Description
The footrope is comprised of 2 pieces twine. The first twine is where the lower
meshes of the netting are passed through. The second twine, which is the sinkerline,
is where the sinkers are attached. Finally, both lines are joined together using PE or
PA twines.
135Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

GEAR DESCRIPTION
Parts of a Gango
FloatsFunction

Materials Used

The floats ensure that the net opens ver- Rubber
tically underwater.
Description
The floats are tied to the floatlineusing PA. The interval between each rubber float isabout 30 cm.

Sinkers
Function

Materials Used

The sinkers ensure that the net opens Leadvertically underwater.
Description
The sinkers are attached to the sinkerline using PA. The interval between each sinker
is about 15 cm.

BambooFunction

Materials Used

The bamboo posts serve as attachment; Bamboo post, 3rd class, 2 pcs
used to stake the net to the substrate.
Description
Both ends of the headrope and footrope are provided with bamboo poles. The bamboo poles are attached using PE twines.

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FISH CATCH INFORMATION
Dominant Species Caught

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Bueawis

Siganidae
Rabbitfishes
Local name: Danggit

Scatophagidae
Spotted scats
Local name: Kilo, Kikiro

Some Other Species Caught

Serranidae
Groupers
Local name: Inid

Gerreidae
Mojarras
Local name: Batwanon

Lutjanidae
Snappers
Local name: Awuman

Terapontidae
Tigerperches
Local name: Bugaong

Leiognathidae
Slipmouths
Local name: Aputoe, sapsap

Portunidae
Swimming crabs
Local names: Kasag, Kaeantugas
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GEAR CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND
FISHING OPERATION
Gear Construction and
MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit

Number of fishers:

1,000 pesos

Usually 1 person

Who constructs?

Boat used:

Fisher himself

Usually a non-motorized boat

Number of days spent on construction

Time fisher conducts fishing operation:

1-2 days

At low tide, usually at daytime

Frequency of maintenanceTime spent fishing:Once a month

Each operation may last about 30-60
min depending on area of shelter.

Number of days spent on maintenance
1 day

Total time spent fishing:
3-4 hours, depending on the number ofType of maintenanceshelters set

Net repair
Who performs maintenance?
Fisher himself

The use of gango yields about 10 kg fish per operation. Number of fishing days is 6-8
per month because fishing operation is conducted only during low tide at daytime.
The fish shelter is constructed in shallow waters, thus it can pose as a navigation hazard.

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
The gango is set in shallow waters, about 1.5 and 3 m at low tide and high tide, respectively. He allots 2 weeks for fish to aggregate in the shelter. During high tide, the fisher
checks for presence of fish. The estuary is often turbid so he cannot see the presenceof fish. However, they claim that they can hear the presence of fish.

During fishing, the fisher surrounds the fish shelter gango with net. He then divesinto the surrounded area and removes the shelter materials. Finally, the enclosed
area is reduced to capture fish.

Once fish presence is confirmed, he sets the net during low tide. The bamboo at one
end of the net is staked into the substrate and net is set surrounding the shelter. Once
encircled, both ends of the net meet. The bamboo at the other end of the net is also
staked into the bottom. The shelter is now completely surrounded by the net. The
fisher starts to dive into the enclosed area and removes the shelter materials. Once theenclosed area has been cleared, the fisher starts to reduce the enclosed area so thatfish is driven towards the codend.
Captured fish is transferred to a container or a scoop net. He then moves to the next
gango to conduct another fishing operation.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

LINE FISHING

At a glance
1. Line fishing employs hooks attached to PA monofilament that is weighted withlead or stone.
2. This fishing method includes the use of simple hook and line, multiple handline
and bottom-set longline.
3. To lure fish, the hook is baited using food items such as small fish, shrimps,
squid or shellfish. In one variant, the multiple handline, colored silk screen isused as luring material.
4. Fishing generally employs a single person aboard a non-motorized boat.
5. The hook and line fisher spends about 4-6 hours during each fishing trip.
6. Line fishing is a relatively cheap fishing gear. Simple forms cost less than a hundred pesos per unit. A longline has a higher construction cost because it ismade of a longer line with more hooks.
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GEAR DESCRIPTION
Components of a Line Fishing Method

A

B

D

C

Line fishing requires simple materials. The basic components are the nylon monofilament, hook (A), a modified bamboo spool (B), sinker (C), and buoys for longlines (D).

Line fishing in an estuaryABC(A) Simple handline(B) Multiple handline(C) Bottom-set longline

Type

Local Name

Target Species

Simple handline

Taplik, Pamunit

Mojarras, breams, scats, trevallies,

Tiwtiw, Into-into

grunts, emperors, groupers
Groupers, emperors, breams,

Kitanggrunts, scats
Breams, grunts, groupers, snappers,

Multiple handline
Longlineeel, jacks
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SIMPLE HANDLINE
Local Name: Taplik, Pamunit
Description
Handline fishing is the use of a single hook attached at the end of the weighted PA
monofilament. The length of the mainline ranges from 9 to 15 m. The hooks used are Jshaped and mostly manufactured by Mustad. Hook size varies according to target species. Baits used vary according to fisher but the most common forms are shrimps, shellfish, fish and hermit crabs. Each fishing operation utilizes about 0.5 kg bait. Fishing accessories include the bamboo or wooden spool for coiling the line and a scoop net totemporarily store caught fish.
Handline fishing may be conducted all-year round as long as the weather permits. Peakmonths are February to April with catch that ranges from 2-5 kg per trip. Lean months
are from May to August with 1-2 kg catch per trip. In the New Washington-Batan estuaries, line fishing is conducted near the mouth of the estuary because water in thisarea is less turbid.

Gear Construction and MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit: 50 - 100 pesos

Number of fishers: 1

Who constructs? Fisher himself

Boat used: Usually non motorized

Number of days spent on construction

Time start fishing: Around 5:00 AM

Less than 1 day

Time end fishing: Around 12:00 noon

MULTIPLE HANDLINE
Local Name: Tiw-tiw, Into-into
A multiple handline has several hooks to increase the chance of catching fish. Because
the estuary can be shallow, a multiple handline in the New Washington-Batan area
usually has about 25-40 hooks. Each hook is attached to a branchline (PA No. 25 to 50)
which in turn is attached to the mainline (PA No. 30 to 50) at an interval of about 0.5 1 m. The branchline is about 0.5 to 2 m in length. A sinker, usually lead, is used to reachthe desired depth.
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MULTIPLE HANDLINE
Local Name: Tiw-tiw, Into-into
Description
Fishing operation is performed by a single fisher aboard a non-motorized boat. Normally, the fisher jerks the line during fishing so that the bait could attract more attention from passing fish.
This gear can be used all year round as long as the weather allows fishing operation.
Depending on the season and the target species, the type of bait used varies. During
the months January to May, some tiw-tiw fishers use artificial lures to catch mackerel
and sardines. Other bait materials used are small shrimps, hermit crab and sliced fish
to lure groupers, emperors, breams, slipmouths, mojarras, scats, grunts and other species.

Gear Construction and MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit: 200-300 pesos

Number of fishers: 1

Who constructs? Fisher himself

Boat used: Usually non motorized

Number of days spent on construction

Time start fishing: Around 5:00 AM

Less than 1 day

Time end fishing: Around 12:00 noon

A multiple handline has about 20-30 hooks attached to the mainline. Fish is lured
using baits. In this example, colored synthetic polymer is used as artificial lure.
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BOTTOM-SET LONGLINE
Local Name: Kitang
Description
A kitang consists of a PA monofilament mainline with about 200-400 PA monofilament
branchlines. Each branchline has a single hook. Distance between branchlines is about
1 m. Both ends of the mainline are provided with stone or lead sinkers to keep thefishing gear submerged. A buoy, either bamboo, polystyrene, empty plastic bottle orPE, is also attached at each end of the mainline to mark the gear’s position.
Fishing operation is performed by a single fisher aboard a non-motorized boat. In theestuary, a longline is often set during high tide period. It is soaked for about 4-6 hours
after which, the fisher retrieves the gear. This gear can be used all year round as longas the weather allows fishing operation. Bait used are shrimps, squid or sliced fish.
Catch includes breams, grunts, emperors, groupers, jacks and trevallies, snappers, andeels.

A kitang is stored in abamboo box to prevent
entanglement. The top of
the box is lined with rubber where hooks can besafely attached. It also
allows fisher to easily
place bait at the hooks.

Gear Construction and MaintenanceFishing Operation

Cost per unit: 600-1,000 pesos

Number of fishers: 1

Who constructs? Fisher himself

Boat used: Usually non motorized

Number of days spent on construction

Time gear is set: At high tide

About 1 day

Time gear is retrieved: After 4-6 hours
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SCOOP NET
Local Name: Sibot, Panadyap Hipon

At a glance
1. A scoop net is a small fishing gear made primarily of conical-shaped nettingwith a bamboo frame and handle.
2. It is locally called panadyap hipon because the primary target species are sergestid shrimps (hipon).
3. Fishing operation requires diving underwater. Panadyap hipon operators are
skilled skin divers who can stay underwater for a long period.
4. Fishing operation is conducted daytime and may last for 4-6 hours per day.
5. Fishers use small non-motorized boats to conduct fishing operations.
6. Construction cost is about 300 pesos per unit.

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DESCRIPTION OF FISHING OPERATION
Fishing operation begins with the fisher searching for sergestid shrimp schools throughdiving. He uses minimal equipment during diving—a pair of improvised fins and underwater mask. There is no gas supply so fisher has to resurface after several seconds.
To collect sergestid shrimps, he uses the scoop net. These small shrimps are usuallyfound at the substrate during daytime. Fishing operation may last from 4 to 6 hours ina fishing day.

A
BA) Scoop net as a main implement to capture sergestid shrimpsB) Scoop net as an accessory in the operation of other fishing gears.

A scoop net (sibot) is often used as a fishing accessory. This tool has a longer handle
usually made of bamboo. The long handle allows fisher to scoop fish from the fishinggear aboard a boat or atop a platform. This is often used in the operation of gears suchas fish corral, shrimp traps, lift nets and filter nets.
A scoop net may also function as a temporary storage area for fish while fishing operation is ongoing. This is often a practice in line and gillnet fishing.

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DREDGE
Local Name: Sudsud

At a glance
1. A manual dredge resembles a scoop net. It is an apparatus for dragging the seabed to collect benthic organisms.
2. It is made primarily of conical-shaped PE netting with a wooden frame andbamboo handle. The net opening is provided with rubber to facilitate dragging.
3. Target species are primarily bivalves and gastropods.
4. Fishing is performed at knee- to waist-high waters.
5. Fishing operation is conducted daytime and may last for 4-6 hours per day.
6. Construction cost is about 300 pesos per unit.

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MODIFIED SCYTHE
Local Name: KaretAt a glance
1. A karet is used to locate and unearth eelthat has buried itself in the substrate.
2. Eels are lured to the surface by sprinkling
the substrate with water soaked in bait.
3. The fisher randomly scrapes the substratewith the blade. Once the blade encounters an eel, the serrated metal pulls theeel towards the surface (left, top).
4. The unearthed eel is then picked up by
hand.
5. Fishing operation is conducted during low
tide.
Target species are freshwatereels Anguilla locally called pueoy.

6. Fishing operation may be performed byboth genders.
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SPEAR
Local Name: Pana

At a glance
1. A pana is used to catch fish while diving underwater.
2. Spear fishing is performed in areas with relatively clear waters.
3. Target catch are large fishes that aggregate near stationary fishing gears.
4. Fishing operation is conducted at daytime.
5. Time spent fishing is about 4-6 hours

A

B

Implements used by spear fishers are A) Spear gun, B)Cwooden-framed diving glasses, and C) improvised finsmade of plastic, wood and rubber.

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Chapter 4
Guide to Conducting
Fieldwork
Liberty Espectato and Ruby Napata

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Methods in Conducting Field Work

FGD
Focus Group Discussions
PurposeThis method can be used to collect general information, validate data, or gather
opinions about an issue or topic from a small group of selected people representing
different sectors or viewpoints. If facilitated well, it can also be used to build consensus.

Application in Fisheries Research
The preferred composition of FGD participants depends on the purpose of theactivity and the topic or issue for discussion. FGDs that are fisheries-related may involve representation of various stakeholders such as the fisherfolk (both municipal andcommercial), fisherfolk leaders, fish traders, Barangay Council members, etc.
This activity can help the researchers validate the information gathered fromother methodologies such as surveys and interviews. The preliminary data can be presented and the participants can affirm if such information or trend are true. Throughdiscussions during the FGD, a researcher will be able to gather more information that
may have been missed out during the survey or interview.

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Methods in Conducting Field Work
1. Focus Group Discussions
Steps

SOME USEFUL TIPS

1. Determine the target participants de- ·pending on your purpose. The number ofparticipants should be manageable. Some
literature say that a group of four to ten is
the ideal number. The group needs to belarge and varied enough to generate richdiscussion. But, it should be not so largethat some participants may be left out during the discussion.
2. At the start of the activity, present yourself, the purpose of the activity, and thereason why the participants are invited. Let·

If at some point, discussion is veeringaway from the topic or somebody isdominating the discussion, the facilitator
should intervene and guide them back to
the issue at hand.

·

Choose a moderator or facilitator thathas knowledge and skills in leading FGDs
and interacting with a different group ofpeople. He/she should also be familiar
with the topic for discussion so that he/she could ask open questions and probewith relevant additional questions tostimulate conversation and reflection.

·

Coordinating with local organization or
agency is a must before the conduct of
the FGD. These organizations or agencies
are more familiar with the local context
and they can suggest appropriate participants that can be invited.

·

It is advisable to use local dialect during
the discussion.

the participants introduce themselves sothat they will feel comfortable with eachother.
3. This activity is usually performed by apair of researchers. One of the researchers
act as facilitator/moderator and the otherkeeps detailed notes of the discussion.
4. FGDs are structured around a set of carefully predetermined questions. Prepare
general guide questions and let the group
discuss freely. There should be minimal intervention by the facilitator. Encourage
everyone to participate in the discussion to
be able to gather their opinion.
5. At the end of the activity, do a synthesis

A homogenous group composition iseasier to facilitate. It also lessen inhibitions on the part of participants in expressing their viewpoints. However, forcomparison purposes, you can first do
the activity with a small homogenous
group and repeat the activity with another homogenous group from anothersector with a different viewpoint. If you
have to do it in a heterogeneous group,
make sure that you moderate or facilitate it well to avoid contradicting viewpoints resulting to heated arguments.

of what has been discussed or agreed andthank the participants.
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Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing GearsKII
Key Informant Interview
PurposeKey informant interview (KII) is a qualitative in-depth interview of somebody ina position (e.g., agency head), an expert in the field, or someone who has a first-handinformation on the subject area. It aims to collect information in studies where a descriptive method is used or to supplement and verify information gathered from otherresearch methods. Usually, a face-to-face interview is done and in some cases telephone interviews are employed.

Application in Fisheries Research
In a fisheries research, a KII can be used to supplement information gatheredfrom a survey. It can capture deeper insights not included in the survey form. It canalso be used to gather information on sensitive topics (e.g., information about illegal
fishers) which are not usually discussed in public. In fisheries policy studies, interviewing somebody in authority can help you arrive at appropriate policy recommendations.

KII is the least expensive social science research method and can be done in ashort period of time. Thus, it can be employed in descriptive research, rapid assessments or scoping exercises that have minimal funding.

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Methods in Conducting Field Work
2. Key Informant Interview
SOME USEFUL TIPS

Steps
1. Identify your target respondent de-·pending on your research topic or on thedent to be able to solicit more can-information that you want to gather.
2. Set an appointment for the interview.

Establish rapport with your respondid answers.

·

Be sure to do a little research firstabout your respondent, the man-

3. On the start of the interview, identify

date of his office related to your

yourself and the purpose of your inter-topic, or his personal view on theview.
4. Prepare your interview tool or yoursubject matter.
·

Never argue with the answers ofguide questions beforehand. During thethe respondent even if it contra-interview, probe when you need to clarify

dicts with your personal opinion.

something about his/her answer.
·

Be punctual, persons in authority

5. Be sure to take down notes. If you

like politicians and agency heads

need to audio record your conversations,are busy people. If you missed yourask the respondent first if he/she is ame-

appointment with them, it may benable with it.

difficult to schedule another appointment.

6. For sensitive topics, assure the respondent that the information will not be disclosed and will be kept confidential.
7. At the end of the interview, summarize
the major comments you heard throughout the interview and ask the respondent
if you have covered all the major points
he/she raised. Ask the respondent if there
is anything else that he/she would likeadd. End the interview by thanking the
respondent for his/her time.
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HS
Household Survey
PurposeA household survey is usually done to do a census of the population in a certain
area (e.g., fisher’s population). Every household in the entire area serves as target respondent. This survey is conducted through face to face interview and usually gathers awide range of data (e.g., household profile, fishing gears, fishing boats, etc) dependingon the research objectives. A survey is a good way to gather quantitative informationand sometimes people’s perceptions and concerns.

Application in Fisheries Research
In fisheries research, a household survey captures a wide range of primary data.
This is one of the most expensive social science research methods because it involves ahuge number of respondents and requires trained enumerators to conduct the survey.

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Methods in Conducting Field Work
3. Household Survey
SOME USEFUL TIPS

Steps
1. Prepare a comprehensive household·

Wear proper attire in conducting
household surveys (e.g., no sleeve-

survey questionnaire.

less, no plunging necklines, no
short shorts).

2. Translate the questionnaire into local
dialect.
·

Enumerators should make sure

3. Pre-test the questionnaire and revisethat they are familiar with theif needed. Train enumerators and con-questionnaire.

duct a mock interview to orient them indoing the actual survey.

·

Schedule your fieldwork well. Familiarize with the fishers’ fishing

4. Set an appointment with local officials

schedule and never do the inter-to introduce the research and the re-view during lunch time, when they

search team. Ask permission to conduct

are drinking alcoholic drinks, when

the survey. Always coordinate with thethey are playing cards, or whenlocal officials every time you are in thethey are taking a nap.

area.
·

Never argue with your respondent.
Listen and take notes including

5. Conduct the household survey in pairs

their problems.

(buddy system). One will do the interview and the other one will write the answers in the survey questionnaire. If pos-·

Maintain eye contact with your respondent. Be polite and serious.

sible, request for a local guide from thebarangay or municipality who is familiar
with the community.

·

Do not commit anything (e.g., financial help) with your respondents that you cannot deliver.

·Don’t be rude with your respondents. Establish nice rapport with
them.
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Methods in Conducting Field Work
3. Household Survey
Steps

SOME USEFUL TIPS

6. Introduce yourself and politely ask for·

Bring some candies and biscuits for

his/her permission or willingness to be

children. There are lots of them in

one of your respondents. If the person

fishing communities.

declines to be interviewed, respect his
decision. You may tell the respondentthat his/her answers will be used for research purposes only and shall betreated with confidentiality.
7. State your purpose clearly and ask thequestions politely.
8. You may probe your respondents’ answers and ask follow up questions but
never argue with them.
9. Thank your respondents before leaving.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY
BFAR. 2014. Philippine Fisheries Profile 2014. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Diliman, Quezon City. Accessed at www.bfar.da.gov.ph.
Dickson JO, EB Alba, A Munprasit, B Chokesanguan and S Siriraksophon. 2003. Fishing gear andmethods in Southeast Asia: III. Philippines. SEAFDEC, Samutprakan, Thailand. ISBN 9749509-33-1.
FAO. 2016. The state of world fisheries and aquaculture. Food and Agriculture Organization,
Rome, 200 p.
Freitas H, M Oliveira, M Jenkins and O Popjoy. 1998. The Focus Group, a qualitative researchmethod. ISRC, Merrick School of Business, University of Baltimore, WP ISRC No.
010298, February 1998, 22 p.
Grosh M and P Glewwe. 2000. Designing Household Survey Questionnaires for Developing
Countries: Lessons from 15 years of the Living Standards Measurement Study. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, The World Bank, Washington,
D.C.
He P. 2011. Behavior of marine fishes: capture processes and conservation challenges. John
Wiley & Sons, 392 p.
Kawamura G and T Bagarinao. 1980. Fishing methods and gears in Panay Island, Philippines.
Memoirs of Faculty of Fisheries Kagoshima University 29:81-121.
Leisher C. 2011. Social science methods and tools for working with communities: Household
Surveys. Available at: https://www.conservationgateway.org/Documents/Household%20survey%20two-pager.pdf
Motoh H. 1980. Fishing gear for prawn and shrimp used in the Philippines today. Technical Report No. 5. SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department, Iloilo, Philippines, 42 p. ISSN 0115-4710.
Nedelec C and J Prado. 1990. Definition and classification of fishing gear categories. FAO Fisheries Technical Paper No. 222, Rome, Italy, 92 p.
Primavera JH, RS Sadaba, MJHL Lebata and JP Altamirano. 2004. Handbook of Mangroves in
the Philippines - Panay. SEAFDEC-AQD, Iloilo, Philippines, 106 pp.
RA 8550. 1998. An Act Providing for the Development, Management and Conservation of theFisheries and Aquatic Resources, Integrating All Laws Pertinent Thereto, and for Other
Purposes. Republic of the Philippines.
Umali AF. 1950. Guide to the classification of fishing gear in the Philippines. US Fish and Wildlife Service Research Report 17, 165 p.
USAID. 2008. Guide to Focus Group Discussions. microREPORT #138. December 2008. UnitedStates Agency for International Development, Washington D.C.
USAID. 1996. Conducting Key Informant Interviews. USAID Center for Development Information and Evaluation, Washington D.C.

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AUTHORS’ INFORMATION
Kazuhiko ANRAKU
Faculty of Fisheries, Kagoshima University, 4-50-20 Shimoarata, Kagoshima 8900056 Japan
Email: anraku@fish.kagoshima-u.ac.jp
Ramon S. CRUZ
Institute of Marine Fisheries and Oceanology, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023 Philippines
Email: rscruz@yahoo.com
Liberty N. ESPECTATO
Institute of Fisheries Policy & Development Studies, College of Fisheries and Ocean
Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023 Philippines
Email: lnespectato@up.edu.phSatoshi ISHIKAWA
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku,
Kyoto 603-8047, Japan
Email: oounagipapa@gmail.com
Harold M. MONTECLARO
Institute of Marine Fisheries and Oceanology, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023 Philippines
Email: hmmonteclaro@up.edu.phAlan Dino E. MOSCOSO
School of Technology, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023
Philippines
Email: admoscoso@gmail.com
Ruby P. NAPATA
Institute of Fisheries Policy & Development Studies, College of Fisheries and Ocean
Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023 Philippines
Email: rpnapata@upv.edu.phGerald F. QUINITIO
Institute of Marine Fisheries and Oceanology, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas, Miagao, Iloilo, 5023 Philippines
Email: gfquinitio@up.edu.ph159

Field Guidebook on Philippine Fishing Gears

ISBN 978-4-906888-31-3
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku,
Kyoto, 603-8047 Japan
160