Club boosts country’s fishing prospects

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 05 March 2017, 12:00AM

The Samoa International Gaming Fishing Association (S.I.G.F.A.) has boosted the nation’s fishing prospects through deployment of ten Fish Aggregating Device (F.A.Ds) in Samoa’s pristine waters.  

F.A.D’s are strategically placed contraptions anchored in the water to attract large schools of fish. 

This allows “our local fishermen don’t need to venture out too far to catch fish, saving them fuel and time as well as virtually guaranteeing consistent catch rates.”

S.I.G.F.A’s project, which costs close to $100,000, was launched on Friday at Matautu.

S.I.G.F.A. President, Kevin Kohlhase, said the project has many benefits for Samoa.

“This F.A.D. programme will have many benefit for Samoan men and women,” he said.

“It will save fuel and minimise long hours out in the open ocean.  It will also ensure more sustainable fishing.  It will boost our economy through a more consistent supply of fish going through our fish markets.” 

“It will also have the added benefit of attracting big name fishermen to our international tournaments. This will not only promote the game but bring the much needed tourist tala.”  

“It goes hand in hand with promoting Samoa as the number one sports fishing destination in the South Pacific, which it is.”  

Club members also used the occasion to recognised a fallen member of the Club, the late Tupua Fred Wetzell. The Asssociation recognised his contribution by naming a F.A.D. ACP-1 (Apia Concrete Products). 

The F.A.Ds were made possible through financial assistance from the New Zealand High Commission Fund.

Present at the ceremony was New Zealand High Commissioner, David Nicholson. 

 “I’m very pleased that New Zealand has supported the funding of the F.A.Ds,” he said. 

“I think that from a recreational and tourism point of view, the more activities the more variety we can offer for recreation for Samoa.  

Deputy High Commissioner, Mike Walsh, added: “It’s great to see this initiative  taking off.  F.A.Ds play an important role in bringing fish to a certain spot.  It saves time, fuel and energy.  This is all going to benefit the club and fisherman in general throughout Samoa.”

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 05 March 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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