When the ban on fish traps was instituted, most fishermen either gave up fishing, or switched over to bottom longlines. With limited licensing, and large individual fish quotas from their trapping days, it seemed those who invested in longlining had a reasonably secure future. However,

The controversial issue of fish traps is one that just won’t go away. Even after they have been completely banned, they continue to strike fear into a broad range of recreational, charter, and commercial fishermen, along with environmental groups, Sanctuary proponents, and the general public.