Approved Weak Inserts for the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan

Requirements for the use of buoy line with a maximum breaking strength of 1,700 lbs through the use of manufactured weak rope or weak inserts (below) went into effect May 1, 2022 under the 2021 modifications to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan. These requirements apply to the Northeast Lobster/Jonah crab trap/pot fishery only. Requirements for all other areas, other trap/pot fisheries, and gillnet fisheries remain the same. 

The modifications remove the requirement for weak link at buoys and other surface system flotation devices, though they are not prohibited, and adds requirements for weak rope or insertions within the buoy line. 

Fishermen are also encouraged to maintain their buoy lines to be as knot-free as possible. Splices are considered to be less of an entanglement threat and are thus preferable to knots.

Average breaking strengths were determined through 10 consecutive tests on a calibrated rope-breaking machine at the NEFSC lab in 2021. To be approved, the average breaking strength must be within 10 percent of 1,700 lbs. These tests are the basis for NOAA Fisheries approval of this rope. 

Approved Weak Inserts 

Below are images of approved weak inserts, as well as videos on how to install approved weak inserts. Many of these are available at Ketcham Supply.

All weak rope (1,700-pound breaking strength) inserts must be at least 3 feet in length, must be connected with a tuck (at least 3 recommended), splice, or a sleeve, and must be a contrasting color. 

All in-line manufactured weak links must be stamped with the breaking strength, must be a contrasting color, and must be connected to the regular-strength rope with a tuck (at least 3 recommended) or splice. 

Please check this page for updates, as we will be adding weak inserts as they are approved.

Recommended: Fishermen may use square knots and a loop and three tucks on each end for attaching weak rope as a contrivance to regular-strength rope.

Stitched Loop Links

Novabraid has introduced a new weak contrivance that is a stitched loop made from weak rope (May 2025). It may be attached the same way plastic weak links are attached to the buoy line, such as with a splice. To ensure that it doesn't jam in the hauler, the bitter end on the outside of stitched loop face should be facing down on the buoy line.

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In-line Link, also called Endline or Buoy Line Breakaway

Watch an in-line link go through a hauler.

Watch a demonstration on how to use inline links with half-inch rope.

Recommended Links for Smaller Diameter Buoy Lines

1. In-line links sold by Brooks Trap Mill are approved to be used with any 3/8" rope and any splice, though a 3-tuck splice is recommended.  "Maine Mold" links are also available. 

1. In-line inshore links manufactured by Seaside Rope in Warren, Maine have been approved for use and may be ordered now. Available at Ketcham Supply.  Average breaking strength of 1738 lbs. Available at Ketcham Supply. 

1. Plante's Buoy Sticks is also making links that are approved for use and may be ordered now. 

Note: Only one link may be used at each insertion.

Recommended In-line Links for Large Diameter Buoy Lines 

The small in-line manufactured weak links are now approved for use with 1/2-inch rope as an alternative to weak rope. In-line links must be placed every 60 feet in the top 75 percent of one endline. The bottom 25 percent of the endline does not require weak links. LMA 3 vessels may use any of the approved links below.

All in-line manufactured weak links must be stamped with the breaking strength, must be a contrasting color, and must be connected to the regular-strength rope with a tuck (at least 3 recommended) or splice.

We recommend hauling from the strong end. If you must haul from the weak end, we recommend leaving extra space between the sled and the first trap.

Seaside Link

Seaside Rope inline links for 5/8" line have been approved for use, installed with spices or tucks.

Brooks Link

In-line Links for Gillnet Float Rope

These links are available for use in gillnets, and break at approximately 1100 pounds.

North Carolina Weak Link

These are just for North Carolina gillnets fishing from the beach to 300 yards offshore. Use 5/16 poly float rope attached to 1/4 inch poly float rope tied with a square knot; the length of the 1/4 inch poly float rope should not be longer than 2 feet. Breaks at 600 pounds.

Breakaway Release Link

Manufactured by Coastline Cordage Group, this braided 7/16 inch breakaway link breaks at an average of 1,612 lbs and is 69 inches long. The link breaks at the stitching, therefore any attachment method must not reinforce the stitching (see example of double Becket below, which is not allowed). Originally approved May 18, 2022, new version approved April 2023. Recommend installation with at least 3 splices or tucks. Available at Ketcham Supply in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Find out more about the breakaway link by viewing the product sheet and the user guide.

Watch a video of the breakaway link going through the hauler.

Note: DO NOT attach with a double or single Becket

Novabraid South Shore Sleeve

Watch another way to install a South Shore Sleeve (added May 2022)

Available at NEMI in New Hampshire and Ketcham Supply.

Lazy or 4-Tuck and 3-Tuck Splices

Cut Splice with 3 Tucks

End or Butt Splice

Eye Loop Splice

Contact

Greater Atlantic Region, Take Reduction Team Coordinator at nmfs.gar.alwtrt@noaa.gov