Fishing gear technology has seen significant changes over the last decade. Modern fishing techniques ensure targeted species are landed in prime condition, reduce by catch while also improving efficiency in effort (reduction in fuel costs) and ensuring increased profitability for its users.

MEP's gear technologists are at the forefront of their field. With their up to date knowledge in all modern methods of gear use, these technologists can provide a tailored solution to any client's needs and requirements.

MEP staff naval architects specialise in fishing vessel design with wide ranging experience of construction in all parts of the world in all possible materials depending on the circumstances of the fishery.

MEP designs range from the smallest canoes for low cost construction with indigenous materials by coastal communities to sophisticated fishing vessels and fishery patrol craft optimized for fuel economy.

Example case studies:-

• Yemeni Fish 17m boats

MEP services in vessel construction supervision follow on from design work with specifications and tender documents for clients to establish bidding processes, MEP have experience of tender formats from all international agencies and experience of pre assessing potential builders of all types of vessels.

MEP contributes to or conducts tender evaluations and contract negotiations on behalf of clients and has construction supervision specialists who are either based at the builder's premises or visit often enough to maintain quality of build and authorize stage payments and classification arrangements.

MEP naval architects and engineers supervise builders' trials at builders' yards shipping or passage of vessels to clients followed by acceptance trials.

Example case studies:-

• Fish Collector Vessels, Maldives

MEP pioneered development of sail power for fishing craft in the 1980's with a research program designing and trialing sail rig configurations in Africa, Latin America and Asia. MEP established performance criteria for a range of sail rig configurations and sail making manuals for community fishermen.

MEP continues research into sail and power combinations and work in improving fishing vessel design and reducing propulsion costs for large and small scale fishing activities.

Example case studies:-

• Sail Power Assisted Vessels