Keep crab pots compliant and no-one gets crabby

Queensland summers and crab fishing go together and recreational fishers are reminded to always follow the rules of responsible crabbing, including the proper use of fishing gear.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the level of compliance with crabbing regulations is generally high, with most recreational crab fishers doing the right thing and fishing by the rules.

“I’m pleased to hear that Fisheries officers in the South Coast region have conducted 223 patrols and 539 inspections related to crab fishing so far this year, with a 91 per cent compliance rate among fishers,” Mr Furner said.

“However, fisheries officers continue to rid waterways of abandoned and non-compliant crab pots and this is something fishers should be more mindful of this summer.”

Member for Redlands Kim Richards said Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers combined with Marine Park rangers and Sea World staff in the latest crab pot clean-up with a focus on the Southern Islands of Moreton Bay.

“A total of 36 crab pots which were either derelict or didn’t comply with fisheries regulations were removed,” Ms Richards said.

“The high number of abandoned crab pots recovered recently does show that some fishers need to change their behaviour by taking greater care when setting crab pots.

“Crabbing is one of Queensland’s most popular forms of fishing and the problem of abandoned and lost crab pots occurs across the State.

“Crab pots used incorrectly or left in the water when not being used can become lost and may continue to ‘ghost fish’, trapping other fish and wildlife.

“The proper use of fishing gear is ultimately the responsibility of fishers.

“I urge everyone who goes crab fishing to get on board and follow the rules and regulations which include restrictions on fishing equipment and crab size and possession limits.”

Recreational crab fishers can avoid losing crab fishing equipment by following these tips:

• Check crab pots regularly and remove them from the water when they are not being used.
• Ensure crab pots are heavy enough with enough rope attached to the float so they are not lost or pulled under water in strong tidal currents.
• Check gear regularly to avoid it being misplaced during tidal events.
• Ensure crab pots are set below the low tide mark and in a sufficient depth of water at all stages of the tide.

People who see suspected unmarked, lost or abandoned crabbing apparatus, should record an accurate location (GPS coordinates) of the apparatus and report it to their closest Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol office.

For detailed information on Queensland fishing rules and regulations, download the ‘Qld Fishing 2.0’ app, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.

ENDS

Media contact:          Ron Goodman            0427 781 920