Description of the SAGO Extreme fishing system on the Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) fishery in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean during austral summer 2021

Marine mammal depredation on fisheries is a worldwide issue involving socio-economic and ecological consequences. The bottom longline fisheries directed to toothfish are among them, where Sperm and Killer whales star the depredation events. The SAGO Extreme System is an innovative technology developed to prevent this interaction. Based on the Autoline System and with the addition of the SAGO Extreme device and other accessories, this system implies mayor changes in the vessel and gear. On this paper the system, setting and hauling maneuvers implemented on the Uruguayan FV Ocean Azul are described. The performance of the Sago Extreme System is discussed and an intrinsic mitigation measure for preventing seabird incidental catch is presented. Marine mammal depredation on fisheries is a worldwide issue involving socio-economic and ecological consequences. The bottom longline fisheries directed to toothfish are among them, where Sperm and Killer whales star the depredation events. The SAGO Extreme System is an innovative technology developed to prevent this interaction. Based on the Autoline System and with the addition of the SAGO Extreme device and other accessories, this system implies mayor changes in the vessel and gear. On this paper the system, setting and hauling maneuvers implemented on the Uruguayan FV Ocean Azul are described. The performance of the Sago Extreme System is discussed and an intrinsic mitigation measure for preventing seabird incidental catch is presented.