Fishers from Tweed to Tathra are gearing up for a big summer of fishing, with the annual deployment of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) in 34 locations along the NSW coast now complete.
FADs are GPS-tracked floating buoys anchored to the ocean floor that are effectively ‘fish magnets’.
Some prized pelagic fish including mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo and tuna are attracted to floating objects which make FADs so effective.
Each year ahead of summer, FADs are strategically placed along the NSW coast to provide reliable locations for fishers, especially those targeting the much sought-after Dolphinfish or Mahi Mahi.
The FADS remain in the water until early winter when they are removed for routine maintenance, including cleaning, fitting the GPS systems on individual FAD buoys and replacing anchors, chains and ropes.
FADs are a NSW Government initiative run by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) with support from the Recreational Fishing Trust.
Funds raised from the recreational fishing licence fee are placed into the Recreational Fishing Trusts, with the money spent on projects to improve fishing opportunities and recreational fishing across NSW.
Recreational fishers are encouraged to keep up to date on FAD deployments, coordinates and responsible fishing tips on the FishSmart app or at: https://bit.ly/3AU3aNP .
They are also reminded to check the latest marine weather forecast before heading offshore to wet a line.
NSW is home to more than a million recreational fishers. The industry contributes some $3.4 billion in economic activity each year and support the equivalent of 14,000 full-time jobs.
Every year fishers pay their licence fee, which in turn is reinvested into enhancing recreational fishing opportunities, like the FADs program.
Find out more information on the FADs program and the code of conduct for FAD fishing.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“FADs are the fish magnets of the ocean; Aquatic discos where the fish come to hook up.
“Recreational fishers in NSW now have an even greater chance at fishing success, with the annual deployment of FADs now complete from the very top to the bottom of our State.
“As well as improving fishing opportunities, FADs stimulate significant economic activity for the recreational fishing industry, providing a major boost to the fishing and tourism sectors in the coastal areas where they are deployed.
“I encourage fishers to take the opportunity to visit a FAD site during the 2024-25 season and enjoy the great fishing that is delivered through this flagship program.”
