Fish bites: Perth to become the kingfish capital

The restocking effort is part of the state’s COVID-19 recovery program, and comes via a $6 million stimulus package from the McGowan Government.

“Hatched and reared at the [WA] Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development marine finfish hatchery in Fremantle, the juvenile fish released from the Cockburn Power Boats Association boat ramp in Coogee have provided another boost to metropolitan Perth's yellowtail kingfish stocks,” Fisheries Minister Don Punch said.

The McGowan Government has listened to what WA recreational fishers want and committed $6 million to development initiatives; like building new artificial reefs, supporting innovative fish stocking programs and enhancing regional fishing tourism,” Punch said.

"So far more than 20,000 yellowtail kingfish have been released in Perth waters and many of today's juveniles could grow to three kilograms within just 18 months, and I am sure rec fishers cannot wait for some of these fish to start showing up in their catch in the next few years.

"West Australians love their fishing and the industry supports local jobs while also generating an estimated $2.4 billion a year for our state's economy," he said.

A number of Victorian and NSW residents have been busted catching Murray cod and golden perch in the Murray River and then allegedly selling it to a Mildura fish shop.

Victorian Fisheries Authority education and enforcement director Ian Parks said the group was allegedly catching golden perch around Lock 11 in northern Mildura and then taking them to a local fish retailer where they exchanged the fish for cash.

“Last month, Fisheries Officers from both states interviewed 11 individuals, including two shop keepers from the retail outlet that had allegedly bought the fish. It will be alleged the fish were weighed on scales inside the shop and sellers were paid cash for their catch,” Parks said.

“Amongst items seized by officers were a quantity of whole frozen golden perch, electronic devices and CCTV security footage.”

The bust was a joint operation between NSW and Victorian authorities. It is illegal for recreational fishers to sell their catch.

The Northern Territory has appointed its first-ever female indigenous fisheries officer, with Malak Malak ranger Theresa Lemon passing accreditation for the role.

The NT uses its fisheries inspectors to help with fishery conservation, management and enforcement. Inspectors also monitor and investigate fishing activity, equipment and suspected illegal activity.

“This is an exciting achievement for Theresa,” NT Parks and Rangers Minister Selena Uibo said. “Her appointment will inspire many more Aboriginal women rangers across the Territory to become fisheries inspectors.”

One of Melbourne’s most popular boat ramps in one of the city’s fastest-growing suburbs is about to get a makeover.

Better Boating Victoria announced that the Werribee South boat ramp will get more car and trailer parking as well as enhancements to make the six existing ramps more efficient.

Plans are also well underway to upgrade ramps at nearby Kirk Point and Avalon Beach.

Better Boating Victoria said the Werribee South ramp had been identified as a priority for upgrade due to the volume of boats being launched and retrieved at the ramp, and congestion in the adjoining car park facility at peak times.