NSW DPIRD | Ballina Offshore Artificial Reef now installed

Recreational fishers on the North Coast of NSW,  have a reason to celebrate, with a new Offshore Artificial Reef (OAR) now installed off Ballina.

This newly installed OAR will be a fantastic drawcard for locals and visitors alike, increasing fishing opportunities for keen anglers chasing species such as Mackerel, Snapper, Mulloway and a range of baitfish. In the coming years, we expect to see the reef develop into a thriving and productive fishing hotspot.

Using innovative, state-of-the-art design, the reef consists of two steel structures positioned approximately 100 metres apart in around 32 metres of water. Each structure weighs around 50 tonnes, with a footprint of approximately 15.6 x 15.6 metres and standing 12 metres high.

Built to withstand a one-in-100-year storm event, the reef has been carefully designed to create high-quality habitat that supports strong marine productivity and attracts key fish species for recreational fishers to target.

This reef is a great example of recreational fishing licence fees being put to good use, with additional support from the Marine Estate Management Strategy, helping deliver long-term benefits for both the environment and regional communities.

Stay tuned for future updates on the Coffs Harbour OAR, which is scheduled for deployment in the near future.

For more information on artificial reefs, please visit: Artificial reefs

Winter brings the much‑awaited return of Murray Crayfish season, opening 1 June 2026 across the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers. It’s a special time for fishers to connect with one of Australia’s most iconic freshwater species.

In NSW, Murray Crayfish may only be taken during June, July and August. During this period, fishing is permitted in the Murray River between Hume Weir and the Newell Highway Road Bridge at Tocumwal and in the Murrumbidgee River between the Hume Highway Road Bridge at Gundagai and Berembed Weir, excluding Old Man Creek.

With populations impacted in the past, protecting Murray Crayfish remains a shared responsibility. Simple steps, like sticking to size limits and leaving berried females undisturbed, make a real difference.

Enjoy the experience, respect the rules, and help keep this treasured fishery thriving for years to come.