Abstract
This paper analyzes the ICCAT FAD moratorium implemented since 2013. Analysis of FAD catches in 2006-2012 showed that 8.7% and 5.3% of bigeye and yellowfin FAD catches respectively were caught in the moratorium strata. For recent years (2013-2014), two major fleets have been operating in the area: the European and associated purse seiners, and Ghanaian vessels. Both fleets have been well following the moratorium during these years. The moratorium implementation has produced a significant decrease in FAD catches during January February for the Ghanaian fleet, but not for the European fleet, as during the moratorium, this fleet was efficiently fishing on FADs in alternate fishing grounds. There was no higher catches in the moratorium area in March 2013-2014 and no visible change in the free school fishing. Total FAD catches have been high during the 2011-2014 period. This moratorium had very little impact in the protection of juvenile tuna; there is no evidence that this regulation may significantly improve stock status. More efficient alternate management of the FAD fishing should be envisaged, larger closed areas and measures targeting to reduce the today overcapacity of the FAD fishery.