A swordfish boat’s gear is an important part of the fishing process. The bird, also known as a “bird” or “floater”, is a buoyant device that is attached to the end of the fishing line. It helps to keep the line afloat and visible in the water, making it easier for fishermen to locate and retrieve their catch.
The bird is typically made from a foam material and can be weighted with lead or other materials to help keep it afloat. It is usually brightly colored so that it can be easily seen in the water. The size of the bird will vary depending on the type of fish being targeted, as well as the depth of water being fished.
The bird serves several purposes when fishing for swordfish. First, it helps to keep the line visible in deep waters where visibility can be limited due to murky conditions or darkness. Second, it helps to attract swordfish by providing a visual stimulus that may entice them to strike at bait or lures attached to the line. Finally, it serves as an anchor point for setting up a trolling pattern when fishing for swordfish in deeper waters.
When setting up a trolling pattern with a bird, fishermen will attach multiple lines with different weights and lengths of leader material to each bird. This allows them to cover more area while still keeping their lines visible in deep waters. Additionally, this technique allows fishermen to adjust their trolling pattern quickly if they need to move around or change depths while searching for swordfish.
In summary, the bird is an important part of a swordfish boat’s gear and plays an integral role in helping fishermen locate and catch their target species. By providing visibility in deep waters and acting as an anchor point for setting up trolling patterns, birds are essential tools for successful swordfishing trips.