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Abstract

High intensity lights are typically used in various pelagic fisheries in Vietnam to attract and accumulate fish to the surface prior to harvest. As a result, larger electric generators are required to power the energy-demanding light systems leading to the higher operational costs. Finding appropriate measures to reduce fuel consumption is essential for improving the profitability of thousands of Vietnamese fishing enterprises. This study compared the fuel consumption and catch rates of a stick-held falling net fishery using traditional 200 kW metal halide lights defined as the control treatment against 60 kW LED lights defined as the experimental treatment. The results showed that LED lights achieved a conventional catch rate level, whereas fuel consumption was significantly reduced by as much as 64%. A profit of USD $1183 (USD $1 = $23,261 VND) per monthly trip was estimated, compared with traditional capture methods. Concerning economic feasibility, an initial investment in LED lights by a fishing enterprise will require additional funds; however, our analysis indicates that the financial break-even point (return on investment) can be achieved after 12 monthly trips. This study showed that stick-held falling net fishing enterprises can increase their economic profits by employing LED lights.