What type of fishing gear is described by the word seine?

The term "seine" refers to a specific type of fishing gear characterized by its design as a large vertical net that hangs vertically in the water with floats on the top and weights on the bottom. This netting technique is typically deployed by encircling a school of fish, allowing fishermen to catch them effectively. The vertical nature of this gear distinguishes it from other types of fishing equipment, making it particularly useful for larger catches and in areas where fish congregate.

The other options do not capture the essence of a seine; for instance, a rod is a different fishing tool altogether, and bait refers to the lure used to attract fish, rather than the equipment that captures them. Boats are also distinctly separate from fishing gear designed to physically capture fish.