South Padre Island, TX (KRGV) — Friends of the RGV Reef is working on a new $2 million artificial reef off South Padre Island that would use four to eight retired shrimp boats.

Friends of the RGV Reef President Curtis Haynes said the reef would sit about 40 miles northeast of the South Padre Island jetties.

“There is very minimal hard-bottom structure out in these waters, and we want these fish to increase their habitat, give them a place to congregate, and get them out of the current and [give them a place] to grow,” Haynes said. 

A survey identified the area as a popular spot for fishing and helped choose the location. Haynes said the reef would cover 400 acres in 280 feet of water.

“Just close to that reef, you go about 10 miles, and there is the continental shelf,” Haynes said. “All these species, like whales, blue marlin and yellowtail, all these types of fish congregate in these areas.”

The South Padre Island Economic Development Corporation told Channel 5 News the reefs also play an important role in supporting local fishing tournaments.

Construction is expected to begin in May 2027 and finish in two years.

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