PROPOSED changes to Murray cod fishing in the review of NSW recreational fishing
rules could be counter-intuitive and actually result in an increase to illegal
fishing, according to one Balranald-based fisherman.
If approved, the changes
could see a reduction in the bag limit of Murray cod from two to one and the
possession limit from four to two, with catch and release conditions for catches
over 80cm.
Additionally, fishermen would be allowed a catch of one cod per
day in the closed season within listed recreational impoundments.
Balranald
Ex-services Angling Club vice president Kevin Mitchell said although he didn’t
have an issue with the proposed bag and possession limit, a review of the other
changes were necessary.
He said the forced catch and release of cod over 80cm
was a “little bit too small” and could lead to illegal fishing.
“80cm is fair
enough, but I’d like to see it 90cm,” he said.
“All they are going to do is
make people illegal fishermen.”
He was also dubious as to how closed season
catches would be policed and felt there was a need for consistency.
“I still
don’t think people should take any cod in the closed season,” Mr Mitchell
said.
For more of this story, see Wednesday’s Guardian (June 26).
