More fish to catch off Swansea and Port Stephens

Another two fish aggregating devices (FADs) have been deployed along the NSW coast this week, bringing to 15 the total number of devices returned to the water after being removed for winter maintenance.

The re-installed FADs are located in waters off Port Stephens and Swansea.

Since the first device was installed in 2002, FADs have been hugely popular with anglers and have stimulated significant economic activity along the coast.

FADs are yellow, spherical buoys with a flashing beacon for safe navigation. They attract surface-dwelling fish such as mahi-mahi.

Previous to the FADs installation the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) conducted a three-year pilot project which allowed scientists to collect data on the FADs and how they work; the results showed that they are very successful.

For example, within days of being installed, mahi-mahi up to 5 kg were seen around the device which is great news for those who take part in the popular sport of fishing.

The FAD program is funded through the NSW Recreational Fishing Saltwater Trust. Funds raised from the recreational fishing fee are placed into saltwater and freshwater Recreational Fishing Trusts with the money spent on projects to enhance recreational fishing in NSW.

This is another great example of the fishing fee being put back into the water for the benefit of NSW fishers.

There will be a total of 21 FADs deployed this summer with the remaining six FADs to be deployed in the coming months. For more information on FADs or the Recreational Fishing Trusts visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries