Recfishwest chief executive officer Andrew Rowland inspects part of one of the towers.
Camera IconRecfishwest chief executive officer Andrew Rowland inspects part of one of the towers. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Artifical reef towers to create sustainable fishing hot spot near Garden Island

Tim SlaterWeekend Kwinana Courier

Recfishwest chief executive Andrew Rowland said the steel towers would become home for pelagic and demersal fish.

“The lattice-like upper part of the reef will concentrate small baitfish such as Yellowtail Scad, Bullseye, Pike and small Trevally, making the reef a perfect location for predatory pelagics,” Dr Rowland said.

“As well as this, the large area, vertical profile and differing types and shapes of the bottom part of the structure make it an ideal home for demersal species.”

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He said other species that could be caught in the area around the reef include King George Whiting, Flathead, Flounder and even Mulloway.

The towers have been designed by artificial reef specialists Subcon and would be the first steel artificial reefs deployed in WA waters.

“With huge projects like this, WA is showing the world what can be achieved by passionate fishers who believe in enjoyable, safe, sustainable and accessible fishing experiences for the WA community in the future,” he said.

Dr Rowland said exact locations had yet to be confirmed.

“It is expected they will be located between Rottnest and Garden islands and installation of the structures will begin this summer,” he said.