Final answer:
The question pertains to maritime law and the classification of fishing gear types. A vessel might use gear like purse seine, which can lead to significant bycatches, raising sustainable fishing and environmental concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question relates to the maritime law domain, specifically the classification of fishing gear types used by a vessel engaged in fishing activities. Purse seine gear is a method used to encircle and capture a school of fish by deploying a large wall of netting that encompasses the fish and then is closed at the bottom like a drawstring purse. Underway and making way pertains to a vessel that is moving through the water as opposed to being stationary or at anchor. 'Portside' refers to the left side of the ship when facing forward, which is not directly related to the type of gear being used. The bycatches associated with certain fishing techniques, such as gillnetting and trawl netting, can be significant, with undesired species entangled or hooked, leading to substantial non-target species mortality. These issues are part of the broader conversation about sustainable fishing practices and environmental protection in the maritime law field.