A beam trawler is a type of fishing vessel designed for trawling, which involves dragging a large net through the water to catch fish. It features a beam, or horizontal pole, that extends from the boat to keep the net open while it is being towed. This design allows for efficient capture of various fish species, including cod and haddock. Beam trawlers are commonly used in shallow waters and are equipped with powerful engines to handle the heavy gear. They often have a flat bottom to navigate sandy or muddy seabeds, making them suitable for demersal fishing. However, their use has raised concerns about environmental impacts, particularly on marine ecosystems.