Manual on anchored fish aggregating devices (FADs): an update on FAD gear technology, designs and deployment methods for the Pacific Island region
National FAD programmes are increasingly important to support fisheries management and development aspirations in Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs). While the overarching objectives of national FAD programmes differ across PICTs, anchored FADs have a role in supporting coastal fisheries management activities, enhancing food security and livelihoods, increasing economic return for fishers and improving sea safety.
The purpose of this manual is to provide national FAD technicians with an updated technical manual to assist them to choose and/or adapt the most suitable FAD design for a given context. It highlights technological developments and learning from what has, and has not, worked over the past decades. The manual is specific to the Pacific Island region and focuses on anchored FAD designs for coastal environments, as they support the food security and livelihoods of small-scale fishers in the region.
This manual updates the SPC 2005 FAD manual (Chapman et al. 2005) by drawing on experience and lessons learned by FAD practitioners across the Pacific over the past decade. Practitioners include individuals from regional organisations, national and provincial governments, non-governmental organisations, and fisher associations and communities.
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