As the homeward-bound salmon approach the coastline of British Columbia, they are harvested by the commercial fishing fleet which operates under strict conservation control. There are three methods used for harvesting Wild Pacific Salmon: Gillnet, Purse Seine, and Troll
Whether caught by purse seine, gillnet or troll, the salmon is maintained in prime condition, by means of icing or in refrigerated circulating sea water, prior to delivery to transport vessels or to shore-based processing plants.
All fishing vessels in British Columbia are routinely inspected by the Government of Canada to ensure that they meet stringent sanitary and technical standards.
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Gillnet
Gillnets are set in a line across the path of the salmon. The salmon swims
partially through the large diameter mesh, then catches its gill covers as
it tries to back out. On average 23% of all commercially harvested salmon
are gillnet caught.
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Purse Seine
A purse seine is a net which is set in the water and then pulled into a circle,
as it surrounds the salmon. The bottom of the net is closed (pursed) and
drawn towards the fishing vessel where the salmon are landed aboard the seine
boat. Approximately 50% of all salmon commercially harvested are caught by
means of purse seining.
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Troll
Troll-produced salmon are caught using hooks and lines. The troll boat draws
lures through the water at varying depths and the salmon strike the lures
and are hooked. Troll-produced salmon are dressed (eviscerated) at sea and
can be either iced aboard or quick frozen. Approximately 27% of the total
salmon harvest is by the troll method.
