Artificial reef ready for anglers
Fish stocks will be boosted with WA's first artificial fishing reef installed off the South West.
Heavy machinery lowered the last of 30 concrete modules into place off Dunsborough last week, with the final touches to be done this week.
Another reef off Bunbury is due to start after Easter.
The reefs will boost stocks of samson fish, skippy and pink snapper by providing a habitat.
Recfishwest chief executive Andrew Rowland said shipwrecks and tyres had been turned into artificial reefs in the past but this was WA's first purpose-built structure.
He said the reef would create more opportunities for mum and dad anglers to go fishing.
"The reefs will provide habitat for the growth of algae and corals, as well as places for the fish to live and breed," he said.
Artificial reefs were deemed a success on the east coast, such as at Moreton Bay, Queensland.
The $2.38 million initiative delivered by South Korean-backed firm Hae Joo was funded by Royalties for Regions and from recreational fishing licences.
"This is a fantastic tangible benefit for recreational fishers who purchase a fishing licence," Mr Rowland said.
The Dunsborough reef is 5km offshore on the edge of the Ngari Capes Marine Park.
