Shortline vs Longline Fishing Vessels: What’s the Difference?
In the world of tuna fishing, not all “longlines” are created equal. The difference between shortline and industrial longline fishing vessels is huge — both in scale and in impact on the ocean.
Shortline Fishing Vessels
Shortline vessels are typically small, family-owned boats, often under 60 feet, with just a few crew members. They operate close to shore and use shorter main lines, usually less than 20 miles long, carrying a few hundred baited hooks.
These fishermen:
Fish selectively, targeting mature tuna and other specific species.
Minimize bycatch, reducing accidental capture of sharks, turtles, and non-target fish.
Return to port daily or within a few days, ensuring the catch is fresh and handled carefully.
Are part of local, community-based fisheries that depend on healthy ocean ecosystems for their livelihood.
In short, shortline vessels reflect responsible, small-scale fishing — the kind that Fish Monger Inc. supports in Panama.
Industrial Longline Vessels
Industrial longliners, by contrast, are large factory-style ships — often over 100 feet long — that deploy dozens of miles of main line carrying thousands of hooks. These vessels can stay at sea for weeks or months, setting lines across massive stretches of ocean.
While efficient in terms of volume, this method has major downsides:
High bycatch rates of turtles, sharks, seabirds, and juvenile fish.
Overfishing risks, as industrial fleets can deplete fish stocks rapidly.
Lower catch quality, since fish can remain on lines for long periods before retrieval.
Minimal benefit to local communities, as profits often go to large corporations rather than local fishermen.
Why Fish Monger Inc. Chooses Shortline Partners
By sourcing from small, shortline vessels in Panama, Fish Monger Inc. ensures:
Higher-quality tuna, caught fresh and handled with care.
Traceable, sustainable supply chains that support local fishermen.
Reduced environmental impact, helping maintain healthy tuna populations and ocean ecosystems.
This is the future of responsible seafood — one hook, one fish, one family at a time.
