Fish attracting devices mean more FAD-tastic fishing and jobs for Bundaberg

Fisheries Queensland has installed new fish attracting devices (FADs) off the coast of Bundaberg in a program to support sustainable fishing and local jobs.

Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said the latest phase of the FADs program includes four new FADs to create new off-shore recreational fishing spots near Bundaberg.

“Recreational fishing contributes more than $35m in direct and indirect economic activity in the Wide Bay Burnett region, and we can build on that by creating new fishing experiences off our coast,” Mr Smith said.

“Spending by recreational fishers means more support for charter, equipment and bait businesses as well as local accommodation providers, and that means local jobs.”

Mr Smith said the Palaszczuk Government’s investment in the FADs program would help to build a legacy of a sustainable fishery for our children and grandchildren.

“Fish attracting devices have been used extensively around the world for thousands of years and are designed to aggregate fish, particularly pelagic species, to make them easier to catch,” Mr Smith said.

“By improving the fishing experience, the FADs encourage recreational fishers to target different species which reduces the fishing pressure on overfished stocks.

“The FADs initiative is helping to strengthen Queensland’s world-class recreational fishing experience while giving species like snapper and pearl perch an opportunity to rebuild.”

The new FADs will create more reasons for fishers to visit the region, growing jobs and contributing to Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

Four FADs have been installed approximately 10 nautical miles off Burnett Heads.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the ongoing investment in the FADs program is important for Queensland fishing and tourism businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

“Enhanced local fishing brings people to the regions and creates the potential for economic growth and new jobs,” he said.

“Fish attracting devices provide a sustainable fishing option for fishers which helps ensure employment for fishing charter operators, tackle providers, boat builders and boat service centres.”

As part of the Queensland FADs program, 37 devices had previously been deployed off South East Queensland and four off Weipa.

These FADs have been used extensively by recreational and charter fishers with great catches of pelagic fish, particularly mahi mahi, reported from the FADs.

A comprehensive monitoring program is underway to gauge the success of the Queensland FADs program.

For GPS locations of Queensland’s FADs, visit www.daf.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact:           Ron Goodman            0427 781 920

Images of the fish attracting devices being deployed are available to download from this link: https://dafqld.intelligencebank.com/customshare/index/EWJRM

Please credit images to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries