Changes to NSW legistation

[Member]

Some changes to be aware of.
Cannot say that i like the allowing of catch and release of bass during the closed season.
Cheers
Ray.
an information bulletin for recreational fishers
September 2014

Modest changes to recreational fishing rules

Following extensive consultation and taking into account feedback from thousands of recreational fishers the Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, today announced modest changes will be made to recreational fishing rules in NSW.

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government released a discussion paper on recreational saltwater and freshwater fishing rules for public comment for four months between May and August 2013.
 
The Government listened to the feedback and issues raised as part of a comprehensive consultation process which attracted strong interest from fishers and resulted in 5,440 submissions on 43 proposals.
 
As a result, Minister Hodgkinson has announced a total of 16 changes to bag and size limits and gear changes which apply to recreational saltwater and freshwater fishers from 3 November 2014. Of the 16 changes, five include minor adjustments to streamline fishing rules, and will have little or no impact on recreational fishing activities. Key changes include:

    A reduced bag limit from 20 to 10 for Flathead species (other than Dusky Flathead), Bream and Tarwhine, Tailor, Blue Swimmer Crab, Trevallies and Luderick. The possession limit of 20 will remain for these species.
    Introduction of a catch and release requirement (maximum size limit) for Murray Cod caught over 80 cm (the current minimum size limit of 60cm remains). Permit the taking of two Cod per person during the closed season within Copeton Dam.
    Extension of spawning closure for Australian Bass and Estuary Perch to four months (May - August) to protect early migrating bass. Catch and release will be permitted during the spawning closure.
    A reduction of the number of witches hats/hoop nets/lift nets from five to four and increase the number of crab traps from one to two in saltwater.
    A change of marking requirements of recreational nets and traps to specify trap type, fisher’s initial and surname, year of birth and postcode.
    Permit bow fishing for carp in select inland waters as part of a strictly regulated pilot program, to be trialled in 2015.
    Permit fishers to use five hoop nets to take yabbies in Lakes Lyell, Lake Wallace and Googong Dam.

Importantly fishers will have time to adjust to the new rules. An advisory period of three months from the commencement date will apply to allow time for adjustment.

    More information...
    Factsheet (106Kb, PDF)
    Frequently Asked Questions (324Kb, PDF)

Further inquiries about the rule changes can be emailed to DPI at fish.review@dpi.nsw.gov.au