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Punt and motorboats tied up at the wharf
May 1979
Winterton, Newfoundland, Canada


Credits:
photo by David A Taylor

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When new innovations were made in fishing technology with the introduction of the cod trap, changes were also made to the design of fishing boats. These changes to the shape of the hull were made so that the boats could deal with the heavy weight of the cod trap and to create a greater carrying capacity. These trap skiffs, were around 20 to 30 feet in length with a corresponding increase in beam and depth.

At this point, it is likely that early moulds, used to build larger punts, were adjusted proportionately to accommodate the need for increased boat size. Many of the seaworthy characteristics of the basic hull would have been retained.