Notice

	To fishermen, net makers, boatbuilders, and other professionals working in commercial fisheries: The Fisherman's Workbook is a tool intended for field use, to carry with you for easy reference on land or sea. It contains essential information about the choice and use of a variety of materials and equipment necessary for commercial fishing.
	The first part of the book, 'Materials and accessories', contains a review of common materials and components used in commercial fishing, with examples and explanations of their use. This part should help with the choice and use of appropriate materials.
	The second part, 'Fishing gear and operations', will help with the choice of particular types of fishing gear, their characteristics and use.
	The third section, 'Equipment for deck and wheelhouse', outlines the characteristics of echosounders and deck machinery for handling fishing gear and gives examples of such equipment.
	A fourth part, 'Fishing vessel operation', gives information about the most effective use of fishing vessels. Guidelines for calculating the costs and benefits of fishing operations are presented.
	The fifth part, 'Formulae and tables', gives tables for converting units and numbers among different systems of measurement as well as formulae for calculations which a fisherman may need. Finally, the section on 'Ordering equipment' gives recommendations about the specifications to be listed when ordering fishing gear and equipment. Fishing technologies in use are generally not dependent on exact, absolute science. Individual experience, knowledge and skill are of great importance, and these are often specific for particular fishing grounds or regions. Therefore, the Fisherman's Workbook is not an absolute set of rules or formulae appropriate for all questions and situations. It does contain sets of guidelines drawn from wide experience in professional fishing. These guidelines may be helpful, when considered in combination with your own experience, knowledge and expertise. Although the Fisherman's Workbook covers a wide range of subjects, it cannot pretend to cover everything, and in the preparation of the book it was necessary to leave out many subjects. It is hoped that the reader will fill these 'gaps' with his personal knowledge, skill and experience in the context of the area in which he works.