Long Island Artificial Reefs
Map & Loran Guide
The Value of Artificial Reefs
Artificial reefs have long been used to attract marine organisms for harvest. The reefs simulate the habitat of particular species of fish, crustaceans or molluscs with materials ranging from old tires and derelict ships to manufactured plastic, steel and concrete modules. Reefs provide new fish habitat and more accessible fishing grounds for anglers and the fishing industry. Fishermen and resource managers recognize the value of a properly designed, constructed and managed artificial reef system.
DEC's Fishing Reef Program
Since 1962, the Department of Environmental Conservation's program of marine artificial reef construction has provided new fishing and diving opportunities and enhanced fishery resources and associated habitat. working with local anglers, commercial fishermen, and party and charter boat captains, DEC selects sites close to inlets or access point with strong fish-producing potential. After obtaining the proper permits, DEC oversees construction of the reefs with rock, concrete rubble and old steel vessels (tires and wooden vessels, though used in the past, are no longer allowed as reef material under the current permit). Most materials and their transportation to the site are donated. The result of this program is a system of eleven permitted reef sites, eight of which have been at least partially developed. All reef construction is done under permits from the US Army Corps of Engineers and, for State waters, the DEC. Because of DEC's role in managing marine resources and the State's ability to assume liability for its action, only DEC is issued permits for reef construction in New York.
Since 1962, the Department of Environmental Conservation's program of marine artificial reef construction has provided new fishing and diving opportunities and enhanced fishery resources and associated habitat. working with local anglers, commercial fishermen, and party and charter boat captains, DEC selects sites close to inlets or access point with strong fish-producing potential. After obtaining the proper permits, DEC oversees construction of the reefs with rock, concrete rubble and old steel vessels (tires and wooden vessels, though used in the past, are no longer allowed as reef material under the current permit). Most materials and their transportation to the site are donated. The result of this program is a system of eleven permitted reef sites, eight of which have been at least partially developed. All reef construction is done under permits from the US Army Corps of Engineers and, for State waters, the DEC. Because of DEC's role in managing marine resources and the State's ability to assume liability for its action, only DEC is issued permits for reef construction in New York.
Tips for Fishing the Reefs |