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Fisheries enhancements


Published 27 June 2024 Improve recreational fishing access by fish stocking and installing fishing infrastructure including artificial reefs.
content image Lake Macquarie offshore artificial reef being positioned for deployment.

Overview

Recreational fishing in NSW is a popular lifestyle enjoyed by more than one million people.

What are we doing?

NSW DPI is implementing various programs to improve recreational fishing opportunities and experiences.

Artificial reefs help to increase biodiversity in the marine environment.

They also provide new habitat for a range of species, including iconic sport fish such as kingfish, mulloway and snapper.

Artificial reefs are utilised world-wide to enhance fishing opportunities, by creating additional habitat for local aquatic organisms and fish.

Innovative and state of the art reef designs are used to deflect currents to create eddies and upwellings to provide intricate habitats for a variety of fish species.

Fish stocking increases the number of fish and the chances of catching them at popular fishing spots such as the Hastings River, Lake Macquarie and the Georges River.

Locations

Recently deployed offshore artificial reefs

  • Forster
  • Terrigal

Fish stocking (statewide)

  • Identify suitable stocking sites
  • Educate and inform coastal communities and key stakeholders
  • Work with NSW hatcheries
  • Refine breeding methods and techniques

Local government areas - Statewide

Lead agency

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Fisheries

More information

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