Recreational fishers are advised that there are temporary fishing closures at two new artificial reef sites being installed at:
- Wirrina (Fleurieu Peninsula)
- Nepean Bay (Kangaroo Island)
These reefs are part of South Australia’s algal bloom recovery efforts and are designed to help rebuild fish stocks, improve marine habitat and support future recreational fishing opportunities.
Why are the reefs being closed?
The artificial reefs are made up of purpose-built concrete modules designed to mimic natural reef structures and create habitat for species such as snapper, kingfish, mulloway and squid.
To allow marine life to establish and thrive:
- All fishing is prohibited around each reef site (70m x 70m) for an initial 12-month period commencing 25 May 2026.
- The closure applies to all sectors and is in place under Section 79 of the Fisheries Management Act 2007.
This period is critical to allow fish and other marine organisms to settle, grow and form new “underwater communities”.
What happens after the 12-month closure?
Following the initial 12-month closure period:
- The intent is to move to ongoing access for recreational fishing (including charter boat fishing) only.
- Commercial fishing will remain prohibited.
What this means for fishers?
✔ Temporary closures now in place at both reef sites
✔ Fishing outside the closure areas remains available
✔ These reefs are being developed to create better fishing opportunities in the future.
Looking ahead
Once established, these reefs are expected to:
- Support increased fish abundance and diversity
- Provide new fishing hotspots for recreational fishers
- Contribute to long-term recovery following the algal bloom.
Fishing will reopen in 12 months, once the reef ecosystems are established.
More information
Further information is available at the links below:
Artificial reef project update
Recreational fishing closures and updates
Help us rebuild our fisheries
These temporary closures are an important step in restoring fish stocks.
By respecting closure areas, you’re helping ensure stronger, more sustainable fishing for years to come.
Image: Wirrina Artificial Reef Fishing closure map
Nepean Bay Artificial Reef Fishing closure map