Published 27 June 2024Improve recreational fishing access by fish stocking and installing fishing infrastructure including artificial reefs.
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