What is a drag net in fishing?

A drag net is a type of fishing net that is pulled along the bottom of a body of water by one or more boats. It is typically made of a long, rectangular piece of netting that is attached to a frame or beam. The frame or beam is then attached to the boats, which tow the net through the water.

Drag nets are used to catch a variety of fish, including bottom-dwelling fish such as cod, haddock, and flounder. They are also used to catch pelagic fish, such as tuna, mackerel, and swordfish.

Drag nets can be very effective at catching fish, but they can also be very destructive. This is because they can damage coral reefs and other marine habitats. In addition, drag nets can catch non-target species, such as sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.

For these reasons, the use of drag nets is restricted in many areas. In the United States, for example, drag nets are prohibited in many marine protected areas.

Here is a more detailed explanation of how a drag net works:

1. The drag net is attached to the boats, which then tow the net through the water.

2. The net sinks to the bottom of the body of water and then begins to move along the bottom.

3. As the net moves along the bottom, it catches fish that are swimming near the bottom.

4. The fish are then pulled up into the boats.

Drag nets can be very effective at catching fish, but they can also be very destructive. It is important to use drag nets in a responsible way to avoid harming marine habitats and non-target species.