A vast network of artificial reefs is rapidly expanding around WA’s coastline creating additional places to fish and more fish to catch.
It has now been two years since Recfishwest’s Rottnest Island fish towers were deployed near the popular tourist getaway.
WATCH: The Rottnest Towers’ progression has to be seen to be believed!
The two monster-sized fish towers south of Rottnest are the tallest steel purpose-built artificial reefs in Australia, with a different layout and construction method to the other reefs around the State.
Having a much larger vertical scale and exhibiting complex habitat, the fish towers were specially designed and deployed to become a home to pelagic species.
Over the past two years, the fish towers have evolved into a fishing paradise with a range of species for fishers at all different levels including those looking for sport and for a feed.
Since the deployment of the towers, Recfishwest researchers have seen a development of growth and a change in fish. Two years on, more than 30 species now call the fish towers home!
What fish are being caught there?
Recfishwest Research Officer James Florisson has kept his finger on the pulse the past two years to stay up-to-date with the many species fishers are catching at the towers.
“These great fishing spots have seen species such as baldies, dhufish, yellowtail kingfish, flathead, whiting, pink snapper and skippy being caught on the towers,” he said.
“However, the most common attraction on the reefs are the schools of large pelagic species such as Samson fish, bluefin tuna and occasionally Spanish mackerel.”
Other species that could be caught in the area around the reef include, King George whiting and breaksea cod. Although all the mentioned species are expected on the reefs, James said yellowfin tuna, bonito and amberjack could also be found in the deployment area.
“While we may get excited by 30kg-plus Sambo peeling line off a reel, or the greenish-brown shape of a baldchin coming to the surface, there are a whole range of other fish and organisms that assist in creating suitable home, and productive ecosystem, for the fish we love to catch,” he said.
“The artificial reefs work by turning underwater deserts into flourishing productive ecosystems. These habitats not only create unique, accessible and fun fishing locations, but also have a range of other benefits.
“They give other natural fishing spots a break, provide an area for macroalgae, sponges and coral to colonise – creating shelter and food for organisms- create a place for juvenile fish to grow and provide a specific fishing site for a range of different fishers.”
Where are the Rottnest Towers located?
Both towers are based in ‘The Paddock’ between Rottnest Island and Garden Island. The two structures are 150m apart from each other.
Get the towers’ coordinates, and Recfishwest’s other artificial reefs’ coordinates, here.
How to I fish the structures?
Similar to the South West artificial reefs, some of the best fish are caught around the structure, rather than right on top of it.
Fish can be targeted by trolling around the area and over the top of the reef using diving and/or skirted lures.
Fishers may also choose to drift over and around the reef location either jigging, or drifting weighted baits in a burley trail. Jigging smaller jigs, particularly lumo patterns, between the 25m to 35m depths directly above and around the towers will reduce snagging and is an effective method for Samson fish and skippy.
Another effective method for fishers with a little more patience is fishing the sandy area between the towers with bait, and burley if anchoring. This is a great method for pinkies, baldies and flathead.
Anchoring right on top of reefs should be avoided as it will limit the benefit they can have to all fishers and the chances of your anchor returning.
Next time you feel like a great, challenging fishing trip, make sure to head out to the Rottnest fish towers!
