NSW DPI Fisheries Officers recently conducted a clean-up of abandoned and unmarked crab traps in the Port Stephens.

Unmarked crab traps in NSW

October 19, 2023

NSW DPI Fisheries Officers recently conducted a clean-up of abandoned and unmarked crab traps in the Port Stephens area preparing for the crab season ahead.

A reminder to recreational fisherman targeting crabs to ensure they are marking their floats correctly and checking traps regularly to allow for safe release of undersize crabs, non-target fish or other wildlife species that may get caught.

Marking your gear allows Fisheries Officers to check the number of traps used by fishers, maintaining sustainable harvest of popular recreationally caught species such as Blue Swimmers (minimum size 6.5cm, bag limit; 10) and Mud Crabs (minimum size 8.5, bag limit; 5). If your gear is unmarked or incorrectly marked, it may be seized by Fisheries Officers.

Fishers are allowed to use 2 crab traps per person and are required to have paid the NSW recreational fishing fee.

Crab fishing is a popular activity, particularly during the warmer months in NSW. Sought after crab species such as mud crab and blue swimmer crabs can be effectively targeted using traps and nets. This makes for a fun time on the water and provides exceptional eating when back on land.

Occasionally, set crab traps or nets can have negative impacts on non-target species, including turtles. Also, when they are set incorrectly, they can sometimes become lost and become marine debris, they may also continue to ‘ghost fish’ catching and killing animals unchecked.

Here are some useful tips to help ensure you fish for crabs in a responsible manner and reduce your environmental impact whilst enjoying our waterways and gathering some tasty seafood.

The public are encouraged to report illegal fishing activity by calling the Fishers Watch service on 1800 043 536 or online.