Did you know there are 12 artificial reef sites located in New York’s marine waters? Two in Long Island Sound, two in Great South Bay, and eight in the Atlantic Ocean on the south shore of Long Island!
Artificial reefs are created from “aquatically recycled” materials to provide new and enhanced habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms. They are made from a variety of hard, durable materials, such as rock, concrete, and steel, that are safe and will last a long time in the marine environment. In 2020, Governor Cuomo announced the deployment of 75 Wells Fargo rail cars that were added to reefs in New York. Reef sites that received rail cars include Atlantic Beach Reef, Fire Island Reef, Hempstead Reef, Moriches Reef, Shinnecock Reef, and Twelve Mile Reef.
Check out New York’s Artificial Reef Guide (PDF) to learn more about the fishing and diving opportunities that exist on artificial reefs. You can also learn more about reef site characteristics, materials used, coordinates of patch reefs, and the history of deployments by visiting DEC’s Artificial Reef Interactive Map.
Be sure to check New York’s Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulations for the current open season and size limit regulations before you head out on your next fishing trip. Anglers 16 years and older must enroll in the no-fee Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Register through DECALS online, by calling 1-866-933-2257, or visiting a License Issuing Agent.
