A FAD is a man-made floating objects that is either anchored to the bottom of the ocean or free floating and is used to attract pelagic fish – fish that thrive in the open waters such as yellow fin tuna, king mackerel, and billfishes.
The FAD was installed in the Northern Reefs to allow for the people in the northern states to be able to fish for pelagic fish without having to venture far.There is no doubt that FADs do attract pelagic fish as evidenced in similar devices, which have been installed and are in use worldwide. However, there is no scientific evidence that clearly indicates how the devices work.It has been speculated that FADs serve as sites for organic growth that attract smaller species of fish. In turn, the smaller fish attract the pelagic species of fish. Moreover, it has been observed that pelagic fish visit a FAD tend to return time and time again.According to Joe Reklai, the FAD that has been installed in the Northern Reefs is likely to attract more than just the pelagic fish.“Avid fishermen, especially those are into casting and trolling, will be looking for the FAD,” Reklai said. “Within a month or so, boats will be seen outside of the reefs.”Fishermen, however, must be aware that fishing is still restricted in the Northern Reefs pursuant to a traditional moratorium that was implemented in the latter months of 2007.The moratorium prohibits non-citizens of Ngarchelong State from fishing within the jurisdiction of the state. Anyone who is caught be charged and fined following traditional customary practices of the state.The FAD that was installed last week is within the territorial waters of Ngarchelong State and consequently, only persons who are from the state can make use of it without hassle.
