FADs of various designs are now used extensively around the world to improve recreational fishing opportunities. Following introduction of the recreational fishing licence in 2001, FADs became the Recreational Fisheries Enhancement project funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust.

Five FADs were trialled in 2002 using a much smaller and cheaper FAD design consisting of a large floating buoy anchored to the seafloor to provide a dedicated and productive fishing location for recreational fishers. Following a successful trial of this pilot program and further refinement of the FAD design, the program was expanded to 10 FADs in 2003.

The popularity of the program with fishers led to more FADs being progressively deployed each season offshore from different ports. A total of 29 FADs are currently deployed and maintained by the Department from Tweed Heads in the state's north to Eden in the south.

Most fish species that are attracted to the NSW FADs are seasonal pelagic fish, like dolphin fish (mahi-mahi) whose arrival off our coast coincides with the warm water that is delivered by the East Australian Current over summer and autumn. The FADs work most effectively when the seawater temperature exceeds 20 degrees. For this reason, they are installed for the summer fishing season and serviced during the winter months to ensure a longer life.

Mahi-mahi and other pelagic fish are attracted to the structure of the FAD due to bait fish schooling around the device, it is also believed they possibly use the area as a resting place as well.

The mahi-mahi is one of the most commonly encountered sport fish around the FADs and present excellent eating qualities if handled properly after capture.

Mahi-mahi are the perfect sport fish, having a remarkable growth rate, known to grow as fast as 7 centimetres in a week. In the wild, juvenile mahi-mahi can reach 1kg in six months and 10kg in one year and attain a maximum length close to 200cm (weighing up to 40kg).

Dolphin fish are know for their vivid colouring, aerial antics when hooked and hard fighting; they are also pretty tasty.

The most effective ways to target mahi mahi around a FAD is to troll skirted lures close past it, casting surface poppers, stick bait lures and metal slugs in towards the FAD and retrieving them back. Salt water flies cast close in on the FAD and stripped back can also provide some awesome sports fishing.

Live baiting around FADs using baits such as slimey mackerel on a circle hook will also entice mahi-mahi and also pelagic fish like kingies and the stallion of the sea, marlin.

To increase your fishing fun on the mahi-mahi try using light spinning tackle in the 4 to 8kg range.

Do not tie your boat up to the FADs. This may cause damage to the mooring line of the FAD, causing the device to break free and become lost (fines of up to $5,500 apply). 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. No mooring PLEASE.

FADs are for the benefit and enjoyment of all recreational sectors, including anglers, charter operators and spearfishers so courtesy should be given to fishers who are already using the FAD. Users should take turns in fishing the FAD and accommodate new arrivals, it all about showing respect to other fishos and giving everyone equal access to the FAD.

Because FADs are sometimes situated long distances from shore, please ensure your boat is suitable for offshore fishing and you have all the correct safety equipment required by law by the NSW Maritime Authority.

Additionally, be sure to check the current marine weather forecast before venturing offshore to assess if conditions are suitable for boating. You can do this online at www.bom.gov.au or by calling 131 236.

The best way to locate your nearest FAD is to download the NSW DPI FishSmart app.

Get out to your nearest FAD and give fishing for mahi-mahi a go, they are great fun and an ideal fish for kids to catch. The team at McCallum's Tackleworld have all your mahi-mahi lures, duck in and see Gav, Chris or John, they will hook you up with what you need for a fun FAD fishing session.