Under the Expanded Program of Technical Assistance, BFAR through A. Biyayang Dagat Program implements several projects aimed at encouraging and assisting Fishermen to increase their catch through improved technology.
One of these projects is the introduction of the modified fish corral.
Fish corral is a guiding barrier usually set at tidal flats close to the shore at different depths in sheltered waters to intercept fishes. It consists of three gates, two wings, a leader and three heart-shaped enclosures constructed in such a way that provide easy entrance but difficult exit for the intercepted fish. It is made of well-seasoned bamboo splits woven into finer screens and laid around the bamboo posts (Figures 1 and 3).
Recently, this fish corral was modified in order to make it more resistant to the action of waves and strong current. The bamboo mattings/screens were replaced by the machine made netting materials and the design was changed.
The new fish corral has two enclosures, a terminal type of collecting crib and a leader but no wings (Figure 2).
Upon request of a Congressman from Region 6, a survey of Pilar Bay was conducted to assess the suitability of the Fishing ground for the installation of a modified fish corral.