- Cook Government investing $459,000 to support the fish aggregating devices program
- Devices deployed along WA coastline
- New webpage launched for information
Fish aggregating devices (FADs) have been deployed along the WA coastline to provide more recreational fishing opportunities as the weather warms up.
A total of 36 southern FADs will be deployed by mid-December between Steep Point near Shark Bay and Albany.
The Cook Government has invested $459,000 through the Recreational Fishing Initiative Fund (RFIF) to continue the FADs program, which encourages fishers to switch their fish and target large pelagic species like tuna, wahoo, mahi mahi, and marlin.
FADs have been installed off the Mid West, with more devices set to go into metropolitan waters by the end of November and then along the south-west coast in early December.
A new interactive FADs webpage has also been launched, providing information on the FAD locations, the closest boat ramp and the location of artificial reefs to help fishers plan their day out on the water.
The current network of FADs also includes eight new generation reinforced FADs which are permanently deployed off Broome and Dampier.
For the lastest FADs information visit the new DPIRD website at www.dpird.wa.gov.au/individuals/recreational-fishing/recreational-fishing-initiatives/fish-aggregating-devices/ or Recfishwest at https://recfishwest.org.au/fads/fad-locations .
As stated by Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"Fishing is a big part of our WA lifestyle, and our government is committed to supporting programs and initiatives that enhance sustainable recreational fishing opportunities.
"The FADS program is incredibly popular and provides recfishers and game fishing clubs with awesome opportunities to target sports fish like wahoo and mahi mahi.
"I encourage recfishers to check out the new website to find their closest FAD to plan a great day of fishing."
