The commercial harvesting of tuna-attracting payaos: a possible boon for small-scale fishermen

Abstract

A report is presented of a 2 day payao harvest aboard a commercial tuna catching vessel. The design of the payao (anchored floating, bamboo raft) is outlined, the most important feature of which is hanging line with coconut leaves tied to it, serving as a fish attractor. Recommendations are made to improve the system and to make it more durable and efficient.