New freshwater fishing rules come into effect from 1 February

New freshwater fishing rules come into effect from 1 February

A number of changes to Queensland’s freshwater fishing rules will come into effect from 1 February 2015.

Fisheries Queensland manager Tony Ham said the changes will ensure the sustainability of our fisheries for future generations.

“Queensland’s fishing rules are constantly being evaluated and amended as appropriate to ensure the best management of our fisheries,” Mr Ham said.

“From February 1, a number of changes to Queensland’s freshwater fishing rules will come into effect.

“These changes will see new closed waters areas added adjacent to waterway barriers on the North Pine River at North Pine Dam, Sideling Creek at Lake Kurwongbah, Teviot Brook at Wyaralong Dam and Yabba Creek at Borumba Dam to provide these areas with the same protection provided at other dams.

“Greater protection will be provided to a number of freshwater fish species including Mary River cod, Murray cod, silver perch, Edgbaston hardyhead and cling gobies,

freshwater mullet, gulf grunter, lake grunter and eel-tailed catfish will ensure the sustainability of these species.

“The use of marine baits will be restricted in all freshwater systems, and new rules relating to the use of set lines, funnel traps, round traps and the marking of freshwater traps will come into effect.”

Mr Ham said all fishers – local, interstate or from overseas – have a responsibility to ensure they know the rules and are fishing within the law.

For more information on the upcoming changes to 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.

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