The development of fishing gears for the commercial fishing industry has changed dramatically over the last few decades. Today's modern designs are more advanced and sophisticated as a result of increasing fuel costs, the need for species- and size-selectivity, stringent bycatch restrictions, and the necessity to minimize impact on the environment.

CSAR staff use a combination of computer design, numerical simulation, physical modeling, flume tank performance testing, and direct observation at-sea using underwater cameras, acoustics, and trawl-mounted sensors.