By definition, man-made FADs can be moored or free-floating structures placed in the open ocean with the primary function of aggregating pelagic fish such as mahi-mahi, also known as dolphin fish. The reasons surrounding a FADs ability to aggregate pelagic fish is a topic that has attracted considerable scientific debate. While, it has been suggested that some species won’t aggregate around a FAD unless prey is present (eg striped marlin), other species including mahi-mahi are attracted to the structure of the FAD alone, possibly for use as a resting place or geographical reference point for feeding or school recomposition.

Most fish species that are attracted to the FADs are seasonal pelagic fish whose arrival off our coast coincides with the warm water that is delivered by the EAC over summer and autumn. The FADs work most effectively when the seawater temperature exceeds 20°C. .                                                                          

No Mooring PLEASE

                                                                                                                                          FADs are not designed as mooring devices; NO MOORING is allowed. Unfortunately, some fishers still break the law by tying off to the devices, resulting in anchors dragging or worst still, FADs breaking free and becoming lost. FADs work most effectively when they are left in place for long periods of time. Every time a FAD is lost, so is the effectiveness of the device and the surrounding location.

If you see a fisher tied off to the device, please inform them of this. As a result of their recklessness, all fishers may loose a productive and beneficial fishing location. Fines of up to $5500 apply. .                                                                          

FADs are for the benefit and enjoyment of all recreational sectors, including anglers, charter operators and spearfishers.

Courtesy should be given to fishers who are already using the FAD.

FAD users should take turns in fishing the FAD and accommodate new arrivals.

All fishers should keep boats, lines and lures a safe distance from the FAD, spearfishers and other boats at all times.

Do not use Braid (Spider Wire) Lines near the FADs. This line type causes cutting damage to the mooring line of the devise. This will result in the FAD breaking free and the ground tackle being lost (fines of up to $5,500 apply).

Spearfishers should be aware of other FAD users and should not enter the water if other boats are around the FAD. Likewise, anglers should wait until spearfishers have completed their drift past the FAD before deploying lines (spearfishers usually only spend a short time period around FADs).

Spearfishers should always tow a float displaying the “Divers Flag A”.

A safety boat, with the operator acting as a lookout, should accompany spearfishers at all times.

All fishers should keep boats, lines and lures a safe distance from the FAD, spearfishers and other boats at all times.