Demonstrate An Understanding Of Fishing Related Technology Training

Objectives:
• Understand the scope and importance of fishing technology in the South African context.
• Identify key technological advancements in the fishing industry.
• Recognise the role of technology in sustainable fishing practices.
• Explain the relationship between technology and fishing efficiency.

Topics:
• Overview of the fishing industry in South Africa.
• Historical development of fishing technology.
• Categories of fishing technology: navigation, communication, fish finding, and gear.
• Introduction to sustainable fishing and technology's role.
• Basic terminology and concepts.
• Regulatory framework and SAQA requirements.

Objectives:
• Describe the principles of GPS and its application in fishing.
• Operate basic navigation equipment.
• Interpret electronic charts and waypoints.
• Understand the importance of accurate positioning for safety and efficiency.

Topics:
• Global Positioning System (GPS) fundamentals.
• Electronic chart plotters and digital maps.
• Setting and following waypoints and routes.
• Integration of GPS with other onboard systems.
• Safety considerations and emergency procedures.
• Practical exercises in chart plotting.

Objectives:
• Explain how echo sounders and sonar work.
• Interpret sonar readings to identify fish and seabed structure.
• Differentiate between various fish finder types.
• Apply fish finder data to improve catch rates.

Topics:
• Principles of echo sounders and sonar.
• Types of fish finders: single beam, dual beam, and multibeam.
• Understanding frequency, cone angle, and power.
• Reading sonar displays: fish arches, thermoclines, and bottom hardness.
• Side-scan and down-scan imaging.
• Practical sessions with fish finder simulators.

Objectives:
• Identify different marine communication systems.
• Operate VHF radio correctly and legally.
• Understand distress and safety procedures.
• Use satellite communication for long-range operations.

Topics:
• VHF marine radio: channels, protocols, and licensing.
• Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and emergency beacons.
• Satellite communication systems (Inmarsat, Iridium).
• Intercom and onboard communication networks.
• Weather fax and information services.
• Practical radio communication drills.

Objectives:
• Describe modern fishing gear and its technological components.
• Explain automation in trawling, longlining, and net handling.
• Evaluate the efficiency and environmental impact of gear technology.
• Operate basic gear control systems.

Topics:
• Types of fishing gear: trawls, longlines, purse seines, and traps.
• Sensors and instrumentation on fishing gear.
• Net monitoring systems (trawl eyes, catch sensors).
• Winch control and automation systems.
• Selective fishing technologies to reduce bycatch.
• Maintenance and troubleshooting of gear electronics.

Objectives:
• Understand the importance of data collection in fishing operations.
• Use electronic logbooks and catch reporting systems.
• Analyse fishing data to inform decision-making.
• Comply with data reporting regulations.

Topics:
• Electronic fishing logbooks (EFL) and software.
• Catch documentation and traceability systems.
• Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) and AIS.
• Data analysis for fishing patterns and stock assessment.
• Integration of data from multiple sources.
• Practical data entry and reporting exercises.

Objectives:
• Identify emergency equipment and its technological features.
• Operate EPIRBs, SARTs, and life raft electronics.
• Understand safety protocols and drills.
• Apply technology to enhance crew safety.

Topics:
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs).
• Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs).
• Personal locator beacons (PLBs) and man-overboard systems.
• Life raft equipment and emergency lighting.
• Fire detection and suppression systems.
• Safety drills and simulation exercises.

Objectives:
• Use technology to monitor environmental conditions.
• Understand the impact of fishing on marine ecosystems.
• Apply technology to support sustainable fishing.
• Interpret oceanographic data for fishing operations.

Topics:
• Oceanographic sensors: temperature, salinity, currents.
• Satellite imagery and sea surface temperature mapping.
• Bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) and turtle excluders (TEDs).
• Ecosystem monitoring and data collection.
• Compliance with environmental regulations.
• Case studies on sustainable technology use.

Objectives:
• Integrate multiple technologies for efficient fishing operations.
• Troubleshoot common technical issues.
• Evaluate emerging technologies in the fishing industry.
• Develop a personal action plan for continuous learning.

Topics:
• System integration: combining navigation, fish finding, and communication.
• Troubleshooting electronics and sensors.
• Emerging technologies: drones, AI, and IoT in fishing.
• Cybersecurity for onboard systems.
• Industry trends and career development.
• Final assessment and practical demonstration.