Esperance land-based fishers, get excited – your own artificial reef within casting distance of the town jetty has taken a massive step closer to reality!
Following the Shire of Esperance’s decision to give the project the green light and award the construction contract to Legacy Reefs, 200 purpose-built concrete modules will be installed and ready to fish by mid-2027!
It’s a major step forward for the innovative project, driven by the Shire Council in partnership with Recfishwest, which will see WA’s first large-scale artificial reef purposely built for land-based fishers.
The reef’s installation will create new fish habitat, supporting a wide range of fish and attracting popular species such as reef fish, skippy and Samson fish, as well as more bread-and-butter species like herring, squid, and flathead, within casting distance.
Taking land-based fishing to the next level
Recfishwest Programs Manager James Florisson, who grew up in Esperance and provided expert fishing advice on the design of the current jetty, said it would take the current structure to the next level as a fishing platform.
“It’s been fantastic to see the Shire of Esperance embrace this ground-breaking project and partner with us – it shows the Council clearly understands how important fishing is to the local community and their willingness to invest in it,” James said.
As well as creating better fishing opportunities, the reef will enhance local fish habitat, creating a more productive environment and ensuring that future generations can enjoy fishing from the much-loved jetty.
James said the Esperance Jetty artificial reef project will be a great addition to the growing network of artificial reefs across the State, creating great new fishing opportunities and fish habitats.
“Recfishwest has seen first-hand how purpose-built artificial reefs can transform marine habitat and create outstanding recreational fishing opportunities,” James said.
“Cooper Reef – Esperance’s existing nearshore artificial reef – has been a great addition to the fishing landscape for boat fishers and now we are set to have an artificial reef that can be accessible to land-based fishers and the wider community.”
Shire of Esperance CEO Shane Burge said the artificial reef would enhance one of the town’s most iconic community assets while delivering long-term benefits for both the marine environment and local fishers.
“We’re excited about the potential to boost fish stocks and enhance marine habitat around the Esperance Jetty, creating conditions to attract a wider range of species closer to shore. In time, this is expected to improve opportunities for fishing, snorkelling and diving in the area,” Shane said.
“The anticipated installation window, in the second quarter next year, aligns with calmer autumn conditions. We’re also exploring the possibility of coordinating the works with the sculpture trail. Aligning both projects would allow the use of a single barge, delivering efficiencies and cost savings for our ratepayers.”
