Optitog

Optitog is a next-generation fishing gear tech company bringing transformation to the fishing industry.

Using innovative technology, they have developed a virtual trawl that works efficiently in fisheries and prawn herding.

The conventional fishing methods such as traditional trawls take a lot of energy and do not give desired results.

The profitability of wild prawn harvesting has been repressed due to the high energy consumption of currently prevalent fishing gear. To resolve the issue of inefficient prawn herding, Optitog came up with an advanced solution named Virtual Trawl.

The company’s technology-oriented Virtual Trawl herds prawn off the seafloor with its patented light beam technology.To be used as a smart replacement for conventional trawl, this virtual trawl offers a catch of prawns with less towing resistance.

The reduced fuel consumption compared to conventional trawls leads to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. It also eliminates damage to escape fish and the seafloor habitat. Virtual trawl makes less than 0.5% bottom contact when towing 30cm off the bottom.

This reduces the cost associated with unwanted bycatch and ground gear.Optitog has collaborated with Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, Innovation Center Iceland, Horizon 2020, and Technology Development Fund.