FAO/FIIT Fishing Gear Type Fact-Sheet Hooks and lines [HAL] updated : 10-mai-2001 ISSCFG Classification : > Category : Hooks and lines Profile General Description: Hooks and lines are gear where the fish is attracted by a natural or artificial bait (lures) placed on a hook fixed to the end of a line or snood, on which they get caught. Hooks or metallic points (jigs) are also used to catch fish by ripping them when they pass in its range of movement. Hook and line units may be used singly or in large numbers. Specific Handling Equipment: These gears are hauled by hand in small-scale fisheries whilst in large-scale fisheries vessels are usually provided with poweredline haulers,automatic jiggers,line reels,line coilers and automatic hook handling and baiting systems. Fishing Vessels using this gear: Liners. These gears are suitable for almost any size or type of vessel that can operate in the area being worked. They can be employed also without boat, directly from the coastline (jetties, rocks, beaches, etc.). Fishing Operations: The fish are attracted by the natural or artificial bait (lures), hooked, and held by the mouth until they are brought aboard the operating vessel which periodically hauls the gear. Features Target Species: Pelagic, demersal and benthic species Areas: all over the world The Gear and its Environment: Deployment Area: Hooks and lines are generally operated in a very wide range of depths, either in inland and sea waters. With line fishing it is possible to catch fish on rough ground, even in their hiding places between the rocks.