Blt: Acoustically Triggered Buoyless Lobster Trap Recovery System

The buoyless lobster trap (BLT) has an acoustically triggered retrieval mechanism for deep water lobster traps. The goal of the acoustically triggered buoyless lobster trap recovery system is to eliminate entanglements of whales and other marine life without disrupting current fishing practice or productivity. The system consists of auxiliary traps connected to each end of the string of traps. These unique traps would have a buoy and line confined within the safety of the housing. When the surface vessel approaches, it conveys an acoustic signal to the trap which is received by a hydrophone. The auxiliary trap will release the buoy which is attached to a retrieval line. The auxiliary trap and the attached lobster pots can then be hauled up with this line using the same techniques currently in use. Grant no. NA76RG0084