Longline Removed from Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve: Why It Matters for Lanzarote’s Marine Life
A longline fishing system has been removed from the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve, in another reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect one of Lanzarote’s most valuable marine ecosystems.
The operation took place within the protected waters surrounding La Graciosa and the islets north of Lanzarote, where marine authorities continue to monitor fishing activity and remove equipment that could threaten protected habitats or wildlife. The reserve is recognised as one of Spain’s most important marine conservation areas and plays a vital role in supporting sustainable fishing and marine biodiversity.
What Is a Longline?
A longline is a fishing method consisting of a single main line that can stretch for hundreds or even thousands of metres, with numerous baited hooks attached at regular intervals.
There are generally two main types:
- Bottom longlines, which are laid on or close to the seabed to target species living near the ocean floor.
- Surface longlines, which float nearer the surface and are used to catch pelagic fish.
When used legally and responsibly, longline fishing is an important part of traditional artisanal fishing in the Canary Islands. However, abandoned, damaged or illegally placed longlines can continue catching marine life long after they have been left behind, a phenomenon often referred to as “ghost fishing.”
Protecting the Chinijo Archipelago
The Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve covers the waters around La Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Alegranza, Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste, together with the northern coastline of Lanzarote.
The reserve was established to protect fish stocks, preserve fragile marine habitats and support the future of traditional small-scale fishing. Strict regulations limit who can fish within the reserve and which fishing methods are permitted, helping to balance conservation with the livelihoods of local fishermen.
Marine reserves like this are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including:
- Groupers and seabream
- Parrotfish
- Rays
- Octopus
- Dolphins and whales passing through the surrounding waters
- Loggerhead sea turtles
Healthy marine ecosystems also benefit visitors who enjoy diving, snorkelling, boat excursions and wildlife watching around Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
Why Removing Abandoned Fishing Gear Matters
Discarded fishing equipment can continue trapping fish, turtles and other marine animals for months or even years.
Removing lost or abandoned gear helps to:
- Protect marine wildlife from unnecessary injury or death.
- Reduce damage to fragile seabed habitats.
- Prevent entanglement of turtles and other protected species.
- Support healthier fish populations for future generations.
- Maintain the environmental quality that attracts thousands of visitors to Lanzarote each year.
Conservation organisations and fisheries authorities regularly carry out monitoring work throughout the reserve to identify hazards and ensure protected waters remain healthy.
A Positive Step for Lanzarote’s Seas
Although the removal of a single longline may seem like a small operation, each piece of abandoned fishing gear taken out of the sea helps preserve one of the Canary Islands’ most important marine environments.
As Lanzarote continues to promote sustainable tourism alongside responsible fishing, protecting the waters of the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve remains essential for both local communities and the many visitors who come to experience the island’s spectacular coastline and marine life.
