The objectives of this study were to evaluate performance in efficiency and selectivity of two hook types, namely, circle hooks and J-hooks used in demersal longline gear in Omani waters. To achieve these objectives, in December 2004 a longline experiment was conducted at three fishing locations at Masirah Island in the Sultanate of Oman. A total of 6 120 baited hooks (3 060 (no. 6) J-hooks and 3 060 (no. 6) circle hooks) were deployed over a 17-day period. The results indicated that 90% and 89% of circle- and J-hooks respectively were retrieved. Of the total catch of 581 fish (924 kg), the circle hooks caught 63% by numbers and 51% by weight. It was found that the catch of both hook types were dominated by one family (Lethrinidiae) and one species (Lethrinus microdon), which accounted for 38% by weight and 48% by number of all total catch. The noncommercial species accounted for 12% by weight and 7.4 % by number of the total catch. With particular reference to the total catch, where the commercial catch is significantly higher than the non-commercial catch, the effectiveness of the circle hook is significantly higher than that of the J-hook. In the absence of output control in the fishery (that is, total allowable catch limit), and given the equal soak time for both hook types, the implication of this finding is that the circle hooks are more efficient than Jhooks in harvesting commercial species. In other words, all else being equal, the use of circle hooks could minimize the costs of fishing effort. This finding is promising from both management and fishing operational perspectives as the use of circle hooks could be promoted in the fishery.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate performance in efficiency and selectivity of two hook types, namely, circle hooks and J-hooks used in demersal longline gear in Omani waters. To achieve these objectives, in December 2004 a longline experiment was conducted at three fishing locations ...