Nearshore artificial reefs and the fishes that rely on them for foraging and refuge can be susceptible to trace element pollutants from land use runoff. At high concentrations, trace elements can have detrimental effects on fish, such as reducing size and sperm vitality. Effects can be biomagnified at higher trophic levels, causing concern for human fish consumption. We aimed to assess trace element accumulation in fishes from nearshore artificial reefs off Orange Beach, Alabama, a region influenced by coastal riverine discharge and where fishing is socioeconomically important. We hypothesized that 1) epaxial muscle will have higher element accumulation than liver, 2) liver tissues will reflect trace elements in the environment, and 3) trace element accumulation will be related to fish size, age, and trophic level. We collected Gray Triggerfish (Balistes capriscus), Hardhead Catfish (Ariopsis felis), Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus), Tomtate (Haemulon aurolineatum), and Cocoa Damsel (Stegastes variabilis) from six eco-reefs at ~11 m depth. Muscle and liver tissues were dissected and microwave digested. An inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer determined 12 different trace element concentrations within tissues and in sediment and seawater surrounding reefs. Otoliths or dorsal spines (for Gray Triggerfish) were used to age fish. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes of muscle will be used to determine trophic level. Magnesium and zinc occurred at high concentrations in all species. Mercury accumulated with fish weight in both tissues. Hardhead Catfish tended to be older than the other species collected and are considered transient members of reef fish assemblages. They also had comparatively elevated concentrations of arsenic and cobalt in muscles. Next steps include an examination of concentrations in otoliths, which provide a past record of exposure. Results will determine if pollutants negatively impact the socioeconomic value of artificial reef ecosystems.