River fishers reminded to follow the rules

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River fishers reminded to follow the rules
PIRSA Media release - December 2012

Recreational fishers along the River Murray are being warned to follow the rules and regulations, after multiple offences were detected in recent weeks.

Since the beginning of December three local fishermen have been fined and another cautioned for offences ranging from taking undersize fish to operating gear belonging to other people and fishing within 150 metres of a lock or weir.

With an increase in recreational fishing activity expected over coming weeks, PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture Senior Fisheries Officer, Dave Grant, is reminding the public, including local fishers, to brush up on their knowledge of river fishing rules.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, we all have a role to play in protecting the sustainability of our fisheries which involves complying with the rules and regulations for recreational fishing, Mr Grant said.

In particular, river fishers need to be aware that fishing with any type of fishing gear or device is not permitted within 150 metres of a weir or lock.

Size, bag and boat limits are in place for a number of freshwater species, with Freshwater Catfish, Murray River Crayfish, Silver Perch and South-east Crayfish fully protected.

Unattended nets must also be clearly marked with the owners name and address on a tag or the white buoy which must connected to the net and be at least 2L in volume.

Fishers can contact FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522 or visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/fisheries/recreational_fishing/river_murray for more information on River Murray fishing rules. This includes:

- Unattended buoys must be tagged with the owners name and address.
- The Chowilla flood plain is closed to Murray Cod fishing year-round.
- The use of mesh nets, drum nets, set lines, long lines and illegal wire fish traps, commonly known as wireys or warratahs is prohibited.

Female yabbies carrying eggs are totally protected and must be returned to the water immediately.
It is illegal to lift any size Murray Cod out of the water.

Anyone can report suspicious or illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522. Callers can choose to remain anonymous.

Download the new Recreational Fishing Limits brochure (PDF 574.0 KB)