The FAD FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a FAD?

It has long been known that pelagic fishes will aggregate to floating objects like logs, nets, and other debris. However, these objects drift around and may only be occasionally encountered by lucky fishermen. Researchers have found that anchoring a buoy or platform in the open ocean will also attract and hold pelagic fishes, although whether the fish are attracted to the anchored FADs for the same reasons they associate with natural drifting objects is not yet known.

What does a FAD look like?

Over the last 20 years the State of Hawaii´s Fish Aggregation Device Program has tested and developed numerous FAD designs to increase their life span and attractiveness to fish. Years of testing have shown that the old adage is true "simple is better!" (see the FADs History page)

 

The State of Hawaii´s Fish Aggregation Device Program utilizes surface FADs. Surface FADs anchored using a catenary mooring method have an average life expectancy of about 3-4 years depending on sea and weather conditions. 

How do I find the FADs?

State of Hawaii FADs can be located using the Lat. Long. coordinates or using the compass headings provided from various harbors neighboring FADs. This information can be found on our FAD maps. These coordinates should NOT be used for navigational purposes.

What types of fishes can be found associated with FADs in Hawiian waters?

FADs have been shown to attract a wide variety of pelagic fish species of commercial and recreational fishing importance. Species found in association with FADs include:

skipjack tuna (aku)
yellowfin tuna (ahi)
bigeye tuna (ahi)
albacore
dolphin fish (mahimahi)
wahoo (ono)
blue marlin (au)
striped marlin (nairagi)
mako sharks
silky sharks
oceanic white tip sharks
Galapagos sharks
mackerel (opelu)
bonito (kawakawa)

 

 

What times of year can certain types of fishes be caught around Hawaii FADs?

Catch data reported by fishermen fishing around FADs indicate the best times to catch tunas may be between May and August, but billfishes are more frequently caught during September through December. Mahimahi are most common in August through November.

What fishing methods do people use around Hawaii FADs?

The most popular fishing methods around FADs include trolling, rod and reel (drifting), handline, and live-bait pole and line. However, trolling seems to be the preferred method of fishing and generally accounts for 80% of the catch.

How do I contact the FAD program for more information or to report a missing FAD buoy?

Please contact Warren Cortez
email: cortezw@hawaii.edu
phone: 808-956-0684