BARGO, High velocity towing of live fish

The Bargo is constructed such that the water current inside the bag can vary independent of how fast it is towed through the sea. The water speed flowing through the bag is regulated, and the water current can thus be adapted to the swimming speed that is suitable for different species. The fish can swim slowly and calmly while being transported towards its destination.

When the bag reaches a certain speed, it is pushed down just below the surface where the water resistance is less. Like a submarine, it will run far better submerged than in surface position because it requires less engine power and saves energy.

“One of the advantages of the bag is that live fish can be transported much faster than today. For example, a tow of saithe that takes 30 hours with a regular seine bag takes only six hours with the new towing bag”, says Senior Scientist Kjell Midling at Fiskeriforskning. Together with Scientist Kåre Aas, he has played a key role in practical testing and adaptation of the bag since the beginning of the project six years ago.

See Bargo in Use:

 Bargo

Facts about the bag

• The bag is towed at speeds up to 7 knots (compared to today, where the speed for towing live fish is around 1.5 knots).
• The bag is made in different sizes, according to need. The largest holds 100 tonnes of fish.
• The wall in the bag is made of the same material used in airbags in cars. The bag is patent protected in all major fishing countries.
• Won first prize in the Venture Cup in 2001, a national competition for new business ideas.
• The bag is developed in collaboration with Fiskeriforskning.

The Bargo in action - pics

Illustration

 

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