Bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of non-target marine species during fishing operations. This can include the wrong species, the wrong sex, or undersized or juvenile individuals. Bycatch can occur when fishing gear is highly unselective and catches not only the target species but many other marine animals as well. Bycatch can cause avoidable deaths and injuries to non-target species, disrupt the food chain, and reduce the population of a fish species to a point where it is difficult to replenish. Bycatch is a major problem in the fishing industry and is a threat to marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds worldwide. Responsible, well-managed fisheries will proactively reduce their bycatch.