- Cook Government bolsters northern recreational sport fishing opportunities
- New generation fish aggregating devices (FADs) will be deployed all year off Dampier and Broome
- Upgraded FADs designed to stay in the ocean longer and withstand rough conditions added to State-wide program
Recreational fishers off Western Australia's northern coast will have more time to drop a line with eight new generation fish aggregating devices (FADs) now being deployed all year round.
FADs consist of buoys or floats that are moored to the ocean floor using an anchor system.
The devices act as an aggregation point for baitfish, attracting large sport fishing species and providing increased recreational fishing opportunities.
The new reinforced FADs will be deployed off Broome and Dampier in May and have been re-engineered with more robust chain rigging and modelled to withstand cyclone conditions.
These strengthen features will allow the FADs to stay anchored in the water year-round, extending the region's sport fishing season.
One of the Dampier FADs will also be used as a platform for a wave buoy, expanding WA's network of buoys which provide real-time observations of wave conditions.
This live wave and temperature data will be available through wawaves.org , allowing fishers to better plan their trips. The data will also be used by The University of Western Australia scientists to improve models of how or when the swell arrives in Dampier Port.
The Cook Government has invested $1.5 million to expand the State's FAD program to help anglers target large species like tuna, mahi mahi, marlin, sailfish, wahoo and Spanish mackerel.
The eight new and improved FADs are in addition to four FADs that have already been deployed off Exmouth and the 30 deployed in the southern part of the State each year.
Maps and coordinates of all WA's FADs are available on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Fisheries website at Fish aggregating devices (FADs) and artificial reefs and via Recfishwest at FADs locations - Recfishwest .
As stated by Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"These tough new FADs will extend the season for sport fishing and increase opportunities for recreational fishers off Dampier and Broome.
"FADs help attract species that we know are in abundance based on scientific research and stock management, supporting sustainable recreational fishing across the State."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"Our local fishers and communities have been asking for access to FADs that can withstand the peak cyclone season and we have delivered on that.
"Fishing is a hugely popular pastime in Broome, and these FADs will enhance the experience for locals and visitors to our region."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"The Pilbara's outdoor lifestyle and experiences are a massive drawcard for tourists and why many people choose to call our region home.
"Like many in our community, I love fishing and I'm excited that these new reinforced FADs will be deployed off Dampier all year round, providing more opportunities for anglers to hook a big catch."
