Released 25/07/2017
Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Mick Gentleman today reminded Canberrans about new rules that come into effect today governing recreational fishing for Murray Cod.
The Fisheries Prohibition and Declaration 2016 brings the ACT in line with New South Wales and Victorian fishing regulations for Murray Cod.
“With the opening of the Murray Cod season on 1 December 2016, it is timely new rules have been implemented to help protect the sustainability of this iconic fish, particularly within the Murrumbidgee River,” Minister Gentleman said.
The new rules prohibit the taking of Murray Cod less than 55 centimetres or more than 75 centimetres in length; and more than one Murray Cod per person in any one day in the Murrumbidgee River.
“The Murrumbidgee River is home to an important population of Murray Cod, as identified in the National Recovery Plan for the species, so we need to ensure we have responsible fishing practices in place.”
“By restricting the number of Murray Cod that can be taken from the Murrumbidgee, as well as the size range, this will help ensure we maintain long-term opportunities for catching Murray Cod in our lakes, ponds and rivers,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
Consultation in 2015 on many of the proposed provisions relating to Murray Cod showed considerable support from the community. Other changes to come into effect involve prohibiting the taking of Alpine Spiny Crayfish and Rieks Crayfish, two native species with small, fragmented populations in the ACT.
Signage will be updated at various popular fishing spots about the changes. Further information can be found at www.environment.act.gov.au.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases