Trial delivers fuel efficiency gains for Irish Sea Nephrops fishery

A new BIM report highlights how shorter tow times can improve fuel efficiency in the Irish Sea Nephrops fishery without compromising catch performance. The findings are based on a fishing gear trial carried out on board the MFV Margaret Mary in the western Irish Sea during June and July 2026.

The trial was conducted using a quad-rig Nephrops trawl configuration and forms part of BIM’s ongoing work with the Irish fishing industry to improve the economic and environmental performance of the Nephrops fishery.

Nephrops (Nephrops norvegicus), also known as Dublin Bay prawns or langoustines, are Ireland’s most valuable demersal fishery species. The western Irish Sea fishery is particularly important to Irish vessels, with a recommended catch of 6,493 tonnes for 2026.

BIM’s research focuses on identifying practical measures that can reduce fuel consumption while maintaining catch levels and profitability.

Matthew McHugh, Fisheries Conservation Technologist at BIM and lead researcher on the trial, commented on how improving fuel efficiency has become a priority for fishing businesses as operating costs continue to rise. Dr McHugh, said,

“Reducing tow duration can lower fuel consumption per fishing trip while maintaining fishing performance. It can also help reduce carbon emissions and gear wear, delivering both economic and environmental benefits for fishing businesses.”
Fuel costs remain a significant challenge for the sector. At the time of publication in September 2026, fuel prices were being quoted at approximately €1.13 per litre, representing an increase of up to 70% compared with 2025 levels.

Nephrops trawling in the Irish Sea is typically carried out around periods of slack water, when tidal currents are weakest between ebb and flood tides. Fishing operations generally begin up to three hours before slack water, with hauling continuing up to two hours afterwards. This towing and hauling cycle is repeated throughout a fishing trip, with many fishers preferring to operate during neap tides when tidal strength is lower.

A preliminary BIM study in 2025 examined the impact of tow durations of two, three, four and five hours. The research found no significant differences in Nephrops catches between the three, four and five-hour tows.

The 2026 trial was undertaken to determine whether similar results could be achieved in a second commercial fishing study and to assess the economic implications of different tow durations. Real-time tidal current strength was monitored throughout the trial using a Doppler current profiler.

The findings indicate that shorter tow durations can improve fuel efficiency while maintaining catch performance, offering fishers a practical option to reduce operating costs and support more sustainable fishing practices.

The full report is available here.