How to build a freshwater artificial reef

Construction of artificial reefs in marine waters is a popular method of improving saltwater sport fishing. Much has been published about artificial reefs and reef-building (Frank Steimle and Richard B. Stone (1) have compiled a voluminous bibliography concerning the subject). Parker, Stone, Buchanan, and Steimle of the National Marine Fisheries Service have recently completed How to Build a Marine Artificial Reef (2), as an aid in planning and constructing artificial reefs in marine environments.

Fishing in lakes, reservoirs, and ponds could possibly be improved, as well, by proper use of artificial reefs. However, the freshwater reef builder is confronted with somewhat different problems than those encountered in marine water. The purpose of this publication is to offer guidelines for planning and constructing artificial reefs in freshwater environments.