Drift net fishery at Calicut with special reference to Scombroids

The drift net fishery at Vellayil, Calicut which is at a fast developing stage, is undergoing many changes \ntoo. With the advent of outboard engines and the decline of some of the traditional fisheries like oil sardine and mackerel, more and more fishermen are being attracted to this fishery. Prior to 1986-'87 season, during peak fishing months the average operations per day were below 20 and it never passed beyond 30 on any day. But, during 1986-'88 seasons the average drift net operations per day in peak months crossed 50 and on many days more than 80 units were operated. Under these circumstances an examination of the condition of this fishery is worthwhile. Scombroids, being the major component of the drift net catch, need special attention. Results of the studies made on this fishery, with special leference to scombroids, are presented in this report. Regular data on catch and eflfort of drift net fishery as well as 'nethalvala' fishery collected from Vellayil during the seasons from 1981-'88 form the basis of this report.