Anglers urged to brush up on fish stock rules over summer

Fisheries Minister Leanne Donaldson has reminded Queensland’s recreational fishers that there are 32 stocked impoundment dams across the state that make a perfect location for a camping break or relaxing day trip.

“Many of the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) dams are full and ready to be fished, including the Bjelke-Petersen Dam, near Cherbourg, which I visited today,” the Minister said.

“This dam is well stocked with freshwater species such as Australian bass, golden perch and silver perch.

“Fish stocks need to be sustainable, and Queensland’s fishing permits scheme has been highly successful, helping to ensure future generations of Queenslanders can enjoy some summer fishing.”

Since 2000, the SIPS has generated about $1 million a year from the sale of permits, which is used to stock fingerlings in 32 of Queensland’s most popular impoundments.

“About 200,000 native fingerlings were stocked in the dam near Cherbourg in 2014-15 using more than $41,000 from the scheme,” Minister Donaldson said.

Permits can be bought online, over the counter at a number of outlets throughout Queensland, or by calling 13 25 23 during business hours to order one over the phone.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol district manager Greg Bowness said fishers needed to familiarise themselves with changes to freshwater fishing rules, which came into effect in February last year.

“No more than six fishing lines can be used per person at any one time. Only one hook, artificial fly or lure can be attached to each line,” he said.

“When using a fishing line, you must stay within 50m of the line at all times. You should also check the fishing line regularly to allow any undersized or non-target species to be released safely.

“All traps must be tagged clearly, ensuring the owner’s surname and address is visible.”

Freshwater traps are required to be marked with a solid light-coloured float that is at least 15cm in any dimension, if not fixed to something stationary above the water.

Mr Bowness said fishers should also be aware of the rules surrounding bait.

“Any bait caught must comply with size and possession limits,” he said.

“The use of freshwater fish and crustaceans, such as spangled perch, redclaw, freshwater prawns and yabbies as bait (dead or alive), is banned outside of their natural environment or range. No-take species are also not able to be used as bait.

“Fish caught that are not native to the area must not be returned to the water even as bait.

“This includes pest fish such as tilapia and carp, which affect native species and marine environments.”

Unlawful or suspicious fishing activities can be reported by calling the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.

For more information on Queensland’s freshwater fishing rules, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au, call 13 25 23 or download the free ‘Qld Fishing’ app from Apple and Google app stores.

Follow Fisheries Queensland on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@FisheriesQld).

Media Contact:  Ministerial Office:  0410 578 131