Abstract
The oceangoing bottom trawler is the largest vessel type in the Norwegian fishing fleet. It is important to the Norwegian economy but has a controversial position in the public debate. Fishers have always had to adapt to change, and innovation is generally seen as a way to do so. However, examining the design of the bottom trawler reveals that while there have been numerous incremental developments, the concept has not changed since its introduction to the Norwegian fishery in the 1960s. Supported by empirical evidence collected through 12 semi-structured interviews with senior representatives of firms in the trawling industry, this article presents the recent historical development of the design and factors influencing this development. An outlook on current challenges and opportunities is given, concluding that a completely new way of thinking is required to accommodate disruptive innovation on the bottom trawler.