Recreational fishermen will be restricted to just one Mulloway per catch instead of two under new rules introduced by the state government to aid recovery of one of NSW’s most prized fish species.
Previously the recreational bag limit was two Mulloway.
The possession limit of 10 Mulloway, between 45 and 70cm that currently applies to estuary meshing net fishers has also been removed.
This will mean that a 70cm minimum size limit for Mulloway, also commonly know as jewfish, will apply to all fishers.
Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair, said Mulloway is a highly regarded sportfish and an important commercial species.
“In 2013, the NSW Government introduced a recovery plan with a number of new rules to halt the decline of Mulloway stock and help the recovery of the species,” Mr Blair said.
“Despite efforts by fishers, a recent scientific review showed Mulloway are still overfished.
“In order for stocks to recover, the review recommended that more action needed to be taken.
The changes come into effect on September 1, 2018, and will be closely monitored by NSW DPI.
An advisory campaign will also ensure all fishers are aware of the new rules.
“I know this has been a tough call but it’s needed to ensure Mulloway stocks grow,” Mr Blair said.
Boat forfeited after illegal haul
Two men from Dee Why who were found in possession of a commercial quantity of 17 gemfish weighing 75.96 kilos, 13 blue eye trevalla weighing 165.21 kilos and 4 mirror dory weighing 10.76 kilos, have had the boat they borrowed forfeited to the state.
The men borrowed a mate’s boat to fish offshore and were apprehended near Kissing Point. Most of the fish were concealed under the boat’s floor.
The men pleaded guilty to all charges and the boat, motor and trailer valued at over $35,000 was forfeited and the men were fined $10,000 each.
