Fish homes at Warren Reservoir could see numbers take off

Man made fish homes are set to have a big impact on populations at a Barossa fishing hole, making it easier for shore-based fishers trying to bag a big one.

In a first for South Australia, artificial fish homes have been dropped into the Warren Reservoir, providing shelter and breeding grounds for the iconic Murray cod.

In partnership with SA Water, conversation charity OzFish dropped ‘Cod Lodges’ or limestone block and terracotta pots into the reservoir near Williamstown in February.

OzFish's Senior Program Manager for South Australia, Dr Michael Sierp said there are reports fish are already taking a liking to the artificial structures.

“I’ve heard from local fishermen that they’ve been pulling fish in from around the structures already, when things are devoid of structure fish will seek it out,” he said.

“It took a good couple of years of consulting with SA Water and planning how we’d actually get them in the water, which was eventually with a mounted crane.”

OzFish's Senior Program Manager for South Australia, Dr Michael Sierp (front) with OzFish SA members dropping ‘Cod Lodges’ in February. Picture supplied

With the help of local business Bennetts Pottery Magill and Chamo’s Lure’s maker Luke Chamings, the limestone blocks were supplied and cleaned by local OzFish Barossa members and volunteers.

As well as deep water homes, the group also placed a series of blocks where the fish will congregate at a castable length, meaning better chances for shore-based fishers.

OzFish SA members preparing to drop the fish homes and structures.

“Murray cod are a valuable indicator of a healthy ecosystem as well as a prized fish for fishers with habitat destruction over decade causing numbers in the wild to decline drastically,” Mr Sierp said.

“Because this reservoir was made in the 1900s, all of the snags and tree trunks were removed.

“These additions will give cod structure and usable habitat, you could expect there will be more fish in the future.

“Murray cod are highly territorial and aggressive fish.

“They’ll love these pots and blocks and use them to rest in during the day and ambush anything that swims past.”

OzFish Barossa Chapter President Tegan Lorensini also said the project will ensure a fun fishing environment for future fishers.

“We are so lucky to have one of the biggest freshwater fish in the world at our doorstep,” he said.

“It’s our job to protect our Murray cod fishery and ensure future generations can experience catching these awesome fish.”

Recreational fishers wishing to join the OzFish movement to protect and restore local fishing grounds can establish volunteer groups for fish habitat restoration initiatives here.