Stokes Hill Wharf is set to become an even more attractive fishing spot for land-based Territory fishos with 15 artificial reef modules being deployed to create a new aquatic habitat.
The 15 small reef modules were produced by local business Shorelands Group, in conjunction with Subcon Technologies as part of the Northern Territory Government's $8.3 million Artificial Reef Project. This project saw the deployment of four reef habitats in the Greater Darwin region in 2019 - two located between North Gutter and Lee Point, one in the Dundee region and one between the Vernon Islands and Cape Hotham.
The Artificial Reef Project was delivered as part of Territory Labor Government's $50 million investment to improve recreational fishing opportunities. Recreational fishing is a key part of the Territory lifestyle, attracts thousands of visitors to the Territory and creating hundreds of jobs for Territorians.
The installation of purpose-built artificial reefs not only delivers exciting new fishing areas, but also reduces pressure on existing natural reef and fish stocks to support the long-term sustainability of key fisheries.
Darwin Waterfront Corporation has recently completed a refurbishment of the recreational fishing platform at Stokes Hill Wharf, providing a great opportunity for land-based anglers to access a safe and productive location, enhanced by the new reef modules. The artificial reefs are designed to combine the best features of a natural reef with internal caves, cryptic habitat, vertical relief and upwelling of water flow to create new habitats enhancing productivity of fish stocks.
Before grabbing the rod and tackle, be sure to download the Fishing Mate app. The Fishing Mate app is the place to find all you need to know on fishing limits, restriction zones, boat ramps and other useful fishing information for the Territory.
As noted by Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Mr Paul Kirby:
"Recreational fishing is very important to Territorians. Not only is it in the fabric of our lifestyle, but also attracts thousands of visitors to the Territory every year and creates hundreds of jobs for Territorians.
"The Territory Labor Government is investing $50 million to boost recreational fishing opportunities in the Northern Territory.
"These new reefs will add another element to the wonderful Darwin Waterfront as a great place to bring the family and allow a safe and fun place for the family to enjoy land-based fishing in the heart of the Darwin CBD."
As noted by Mr David Ciaravolo, CEO, Amateur Fishing Association NT (AFANT):
"This is a very exciting development for recreational fishers at one of Darwin's most popular and convenient land based fishing spots.
"We know that the Stokes Hill fishing platform is one of the safest and least tide-dependent family fishing locations in the NT, and the installation of the new reefs within casting range, is set to improve the fishing on offer, especially for species like snapper and trevally."
