A new version of an online tool from DTU Aqua now shows where and how often Danish fishers use bottom-towed gear, based on updated and improved data through 2024.
The tool adds 4 years of data and provides more precise mapping of seabed fishing pressure, including areas close to the coast.
The tool, known as the Danish seabed fishing footprint, has been publicly available for 3 years. Users can select area, gear type and time period to view detailed maps and data.
The new version improves accuracy by refining methods and cross-checking with logbook data.
Better data close to the coast
A key update is the inclusion of fishing activity within about three kilometres of the coast. Earlier versions excluded much of this area due to difficulty separating fishing from simple sailing near harbours.
Improved methods now remove most false signals. This allows coastal fishing to be included without misclassifying vessel movements.
Special note on the Wadden Sea
For the Wadden Sea, the new method shows fishing pressure about six percentage points higher than earlier estimates. As a result, data for this area from 2012–2020 cannot be directly compared with figures from 2021–2024.
Very high map detail
The tool stands out for its acceptable spatial resolution. While many maps use grid cells several kilometres wide, DTU Aqua’s data are at 60 by 100 metres.
The project is funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the Danish Fisheries Agency, in cooperation with DTU Aqua and Danmarks Fiskeriforening PO.