State Government expands fish aggregating devices program to include Geraldton, Abrolhos, Jurien

More than two dozen devices to attract more fishes able to be caught during the demersal ban will be dropped in waters between Geraldton and Albany this summer.

Fisheries Minister Don Punch announced 28 fish aggregating devices (FADs) will be installed next month, providing more opportunities for recreational fishers.

It is part of a $1.5 million investment over three years to expand the FADs program, following a successful four-year trial which started with 28 FADs. The program, supported by Recfishwest, was expanded to 40 this year.

The devices are buoys or floats moored to the ocean floor, providing shelter for bait fish which attract large pelagic fish, including mahi-mahi, tuna and marlin.

FADs in waters off Steep Point, Geraldton, the Abrolhos Islands, Jurien Bay, Lancelin, Mandurah, Cape Naturaliste and Albany will go in next month.

“Expanding the popular FADs program is an important part of the Cook Government’s demersal recovery support package,” Mr Punch said.

“It provides alternative fishing opportunities for recfishers to switch their fish, and give our prized pink snapper and dhufish species a rest and an opportunity to recover.”