Gillnet Gauge
Technology Summary
The Gillnet Measuring Gauge is a portable, 3D-printed tool designed to quickly and accurately verify the mesh size of commercial and recreational gillnets down to 1/8-inch increments. Featuring an ergonomic, easy-to-grip handle and sturdy notched measuring steps, the gauge streamlines web size checks for target speciesāincluding Sockeye, Coho, Chinook, and Pink salmonāeliminating the hassle and potential errors of flexible tape measures.
Background & Opportunity
Gillnets are used extensively across ĄÖ»¢Ö±²„'s commercial and subsistence salmon fisheries, where specific mesh sizes are legally mandated to target precise fish species and reduce unwanted bycatch. Historically, fishermen and fisheries enforcement officers have relied on standard tape measures or calipers, which are cumbersome, slow, and prone to measurement errors on flexible web material in wet, high-motion marine environments. There is a strong practical need for a durable, physical gauge that enables rapid, foolproof mesh size verification in the field.
How It Works
The 3D-printed gauge features calibrated, stepped notches corresponding to standard regulation mesh dimensionsāranging across Sockeye web sizes (4 Ā½" to 5" in 1/8" increments) as well as larger Coho/Chinook and smaller Pink salmon gear. Users simply insert the notched tool directly into the net mesh for an immediate, reliable visual verification without tension variations or manual alignment issues.
Potential Applications
- Commercial Fishing Fleet Operations: On-deck gear preparation, mesh size verification, and net repair for salmon harvesters.
- Fisheries Regulatory Compliance & Enforcement: Fast, standardized gear inspection by state and federal wildlife officers.
- Marine Supply & Net Loft Manufacturing: Quality control tool for net lofts, gear builders, and commercial fishing suppliers.