Fish magnets boost fishing opportunities along NSW coast

RECREATIONAL fishers have 34 new ‘fish magnets’ along the NSW coast, with floating devices deployed to attract prized catches like mahi-mahi and tuna.

Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) are GPS-tracked buoys anchored to the ocean floor, attracting fish such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, and tuna.

Ahead of summer, FADs are strategically placed along the coast to create reliable fishing spots for recreational fishers.

On the North Coast, FADs are located at Tweed Heads, Brunswick Heads, the Richmond River at Ballina, and Evans Head.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty described FADs as “fish magnets of the ocean” and highlighted their economic benefits.

“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,” she said.

FADs are removed in early winter for cleaning, maintenance, and upgrades, including GPS system checks and anchor replacements.

The program is funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust, supported by fishing licence fees, to improve fishing opportunities across NSW.

Fishers can track FAD locations, coordinates, and tips for responsible fishing on the FishSmart app or the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.