Recfishwest is pleased to see the State Government delivering on its commitment to build a new artificial reef for Albany fishers, with the project now moving closer to construction.
Today (Thursday 2 April), in Albany Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis announced an artificial reef will be constructed and installed in King George Sound less than a 7km steam from Emu Point boat ramp in protected waters, creating new habitat and exciting fishing opportunities close to shore.
Shaped by fishers, for fishers
This project has been shaped by the local fishing community and stakeholders, with extensive consultation helping identify the best location for the reef.
Located in sheltered waters and accessible from Emu Point and Albany Marina, the site has been carefully chosen to maximise quality fishing in a safe and accessible location for small to medium boats.
Funded by the Recreational Fishing Initiatives Fund, this project highlights what can be achieved through strong partnerships, with Recfishwest working alongside the Albany fishing community, DPIRD and the City of Albany to deliver lasting benefits for local fishers.
Recfishwest Programs Manager James Florisson said the reef ultimately reflects a strong drive by the local community to increase fishing opportunities and experiences on the south coast.
“This is exactly what great fishing projects should look like, shaped by the community and designed to deliver real benefits for local fishers – we are confident it will become a standout fishing spot for Albany,” he said.
More fish, better fishing
The reef will consist of purpose-built concrete modules designed to create complex habitat and boost marine productivity.
For fishers, that means more opportunities to target species like skippy, Samsonfish and pink snapper, which are expected to quickly inhabit the reef, with fish abundance growing as marine life builds around it.
The City of Albany will now lead the tender process, with deployment expected by early 2027.
Building the future of fishing
Albany reef will build on Recfishwest’s statewide artificial reefs program, which has already delivered nine reefs creating great fishing and new habitat along the WA coast.
Artificial reefs are about building the future of fishing, creating new habitat, boosting fish numbers and delivering better experiences for WA fishers.
