Characteristics Surface Current for Sustainable Fishing on Map FMA-718

Abstract This research aims to investigate surface currents in Fish Management Area 718, located between 128°-141° East Longitude and 4°-11° South Latitude. The study seeks to create a thematic map and identify FMA-718 based on four seasons in specific Indonesian waters. It focuses on determining the spatiotemporal distribution of current direction and speed, derived from the Pushidrosal sea map and OFS data, and their relation to Fishing area characteristics. Data were processed at the Computer Laboratory of Marine Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Marine Science, Hang Tuah University, using primary data from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency’s Ocean Forecast System (OFS) for 2021-2023, and secondary data from the Sea Map of Hidros digitizer no.151 Papua and Surrounding Islands. Analysis and map creation were done using MapInfo Pro 15 software. The study aims to identify temporal differences in fishing spots by examining the spatiotemporal distribution of current data, useful for fishing business actors in planning operations. Findings indicate that the Aru Sea, Arafura Sea, and Timor Sea are ideal for fishing due to favorable surface current conditions, characterized by weak flows year-round, supporting fish resource survival. However, during the east season, westward currents may reduce fertility in fishing areas.