A method for biofouling mitigation using a surface coating with magnetically aligned particles. A coating material that requires curing is provided, to which magnetic particles are added; this coating is applied to a surface. The applied coating is then subjected to a magnetic field in situ such that the magnetic particles are formed into microstructures that render the surface rougher than it would be without the microstructures. The coating is then allowed to cure. The random and non-toxic surface features created by the magnetic particles and magnetic field provide the coated surface with broad spectrum fouling resistance against organisms such as barnacles and bacteria.