A change of fishing rules at Casino’s Jabour Weir

[Member]

A change of fishing rules at Casino’s Jabour Weir
05 Oct 2012 - NSW Fisheries

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) today introduced new fishing rules at Jabour Weir in Casino to better protect Australian bass aggregating below the weir.

DPI Fisheries Conservation Manager, Patrick Dwyer, said a damaged fishway at Jabour Weir has been blocking the passage of Australian bass returning upstream to freshwater after spawning in coastal estuaries.

“Fish are unable to traverse the damaged three metre high weir structure, which has resulted in large numbers of Australian bass congregating below Jabour Weir,” he said.

“This makes bass an easy target for fishers, which could impact on populations in the Richmond River.”

DPI Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said to reduce the impact on Australian bass populations a closure on the take of all species of fish from 50 metres upstream to 200 metres downstream of the weir face has been introduced.

“Anglers are still permitted to fish this stretch of river provided they practise catch and release fishing,” Mr Tritton said.

“In addition, anglers may catch fish within the affected area downstream of the weir and release them into the area affected upstream of the weir to give the fish a helping hand past the weir.

“Previously established freshwater fishing regulations still apply within this area, with up to two hand held lines with no more than two single hooks or two artificial flies or lures permitted.

“Local fisheries officers will patrol Jabour Weir to ensure that the new rules are being followed.

“Fishers wishing to target bass in other parts of the Richmond River are reminded that there is a daily bag limit of two bass per person, of which only one fish can be over 35 centimetres.”

Mr Dwyer said fish populations in the Richmond River have been impacted for many years by impediments to fish passage along the river.

“A major focus on improving fish passage in the Richmond River is underway, with two redundant weirs downstream of Jabour Weir already removed,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Fisheries staff are working with the owner of Jabour Weir, Richmond Valley Council, on a concept design for an effective fishway.”