Released 30/11/2018
The Murray cod fishing season opens at midnight tonight, Friday 30 November, in time for summer holidays.
“To maintain sustainable populations of Murray cod for both conservation and recreational fishing, we would like to remind anglers to follow the rules around when, where and how they can throw in a line to catch this iconic fish,” ACT Conservator Ian Walker said.
“The rules are different for different fishing areas, as outlined in the recreational fishing in the ACT brochure. All Murray cod that are taken must be between 55 and 75 centimetres in length.
“The Murrumbidgee River is home to an important population of Murray cod and you are restricted to one fish per day in areas of the river that are downstream from the junction with the Gudgenby River; and the Molonglo River downstream of its junction with the Queanbeyan River.
“In all other ‘open waters’ (urban lakes and ponds and the Molonglo River downstream of its junction with the Queanbeyan River) you can take two fish per day and use either two attended fishing rods, two attended hand lines, or one of each, with no more than two hooks on each line. You can also use a landing net.
“Artificial lures, flies and live or natural bait can be used as bait, but fin fish, fish eggs and frogs must not be used. It is also an offence to use fishing gear if you are further than 10 metres from the gear or it is out of your line of sight.
“The Murray cod season will close again next year on 31 August. Any fish taken out of season must be returned to the water unharmed.
“Anglers are also reminded to not use illegal, enclosed ‘opera house’ style nets in ACT waterways. These destructive traps can kill native wildlife such as platypus and water rats and should not be considered for any purpose.”
Fisheries Officers patrol the region’s waterways and Environmental Protection Officers patrol urban waterways across the ACT to help ensure healthy and sustainable fisheries for future generations.
For more information or to report illegal fishing activity call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 during business hours or visit www.environment.act.gov.au/cpr/fish/recreational_fishing_in_the_act.
- Statement ends -
ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases
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|---|---|---|---|
Christopher Clarke |
(02) 6207 1587 |
0422 660 867 |
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