Bush 'n Beach Fishing Magazine Location reports & tips for fishing, boating, camping, kayaking, 4WDing in Queensland and Northern NSW
Remember: Fishing Gear Compliance Matters
On the evening of October 30, 2024, Fisheries Officers from the Shoalhaven Fisheries District conducted a routine patrol of coastal lakes as the prawning season kicked off. During their inspection around 10:30pm, they encountered two individuals prawning in Lake Woolumboola at Culburra, NSW.
The Fisheries Officers found that the men were using a hand-hauled prawn net and scoop nets with mesh sizes below the legal limits. Specifically, their scoop nets measured only 16mm, and the hand-hauled prawn net averaged 26.5mm, while the legal requirements are a minimum of 20mm for scoop nets and 30mm for prawn nets. As a result, the net was seized and the catch of prawns (approximately 15 litres) were seized and returned to the water, and compliance actions will follow.
Reminder for all anglers: Please make sure to check the current fishing regulations before heading out. It’s crucial to ensure your fishing gear meets legal dimensions. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to your local Fisheries Office and arrange a time to have your fishing gear inspected to ensure it’s compliant with current regulations.
Edited to add: Nets are measured when they are wet with a certified measuring device, multiple measurements are taken throughout the net to determine mesh size.
Fishing regulation, such as freshwater and saltwater bag and size limits, apply to help ensure healthy and sustainable fisheries for future generations. Size limits aim to allow fish to reach maturity and complete their breeding cycle, while bag limits help make sure everyone gets a fair share of the resource and species are not overfished.For more information on bag and size limits, please visit our website.
The public are reminded to report suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or via the online report.
