Fish bites: SA swaps over to snapper bag limits

The tag system, allocated via ballot for anyone wanting to fish for snapper in the state’s south-east, was initially believed to be the best way to take pressure off fish stocks.

However, after assessing that fish stocks were still under severe pressure, from February 1 this year when the snapper season re-opens recreational anglers will be allowed to catch two snappers per person a day, with a boat limit of six.

Once caught, fishers are compelled to report their catch via the Department of Primary Industries and Regions recreational fishing app.

The department has capped the south-east’s total catch for snapper next year to 26,666kg made up of 21,600kg (82 per cent) for commercial fishers, 2133kg (8.0 per cent) for recreational fishers and 2667kg (10 per cent) for charter boat operators.

Charter boats will continue to use tags.

Recreational snapper fishers also still need to adhere to a 38cm minimum size limit and must use a release weight when returning snapper bycatch to the water.

The department said the snapper season would be closed for the year once the recreational catch limit was reached. Next year’s snapper season in SA’s south-east will run from February 1 to June 30, 2021.

SA's snapper stocks have declined by about 90 per cent since 2005.

Daiwa has launched a new version of its Black series graphite rods featuring blanks that are stronger than before, yet weigh less.

According to Daiwa, a new “Nanoplus” process allows the blanks to be made with a higher density of graphite. The graphite weave is also laid at a 45-degree angle, improving strength and durability by eliminating twist.

A stiffer rod also means it can cast further.

A new reel seat design further reduces weight, while the handle is now incorporated into the rod, helping to transfer vibrations to the angler’s hands on baitcaster models.

Spin and baitcaster versions of the rod are priced from $239, while a swimbait model is priced from $289.

Fisheries WA has asked West Australians to be aware of where they’re pulling up to catch a feed of “whites” as the annual run kicks off in the state.

“The annual whites run is a great time to catch a feed of crays and one of the most popular metro spots is near Two Rocks Marine Park off Joondalup.

“While recreational fishing for rock lobster can be enjoyed in most areas off Joondalup, there are a few marine park zones were recreational fishing is not allowed, including the national park zone, so know your zones, species, bag and size limits before you head out.”

Maps of marine park zones around Two Rocks are available via either the state’s recfishwest smartphone app or via the Parks Australia website.

Crown land wrongfully locked off to fishers over the passage of time will be reopened after the Victorian Government approved new legislation allowing people can camp on riverfronts.

“The new rules provide a fantastic opportunity for people to responsibly enjoy more of Victoria’s beautiful waterways, with camping added to the list of permitted activities on Crown land alongside things like picnicking, fishing and bushwalking,” the Victorian Fisheries Authority said.

“The Victorian Fisheries Authority will install gates and signage to Crown land entry points to help people safely access those areas.

The VFA said rules to help regulate usage would be developed through a thorough consultation process with licence holders, farmers and communities, aiming to protect the environment while enabling camping and fishing. 

It said fisheries officers would continue to “strongly enforce” regulations relating to litter and other inappropriate activities on Crown land.