Released 30/08/2019

Anglers are being reminded that the Murray Cod fishing season will close in the ACT this weekend at midnight on Saturday 31 August 2019.  

“The closed season will remain in effect in ACT lakes, rivers and streams until the summer, officially reopening on Sunday 1 December 2019,” ACT Conservator Ian Walker said.

“During this time, anglers are not permitted to target Murray Cod, and anyone who catches one in our waterways must return the fish to the water with the least amount of injury possible.

“Murray Cod are one of our most magnificent freshwater fish so we must do all that we can to make sure their numbers remain steady, and they remain a valuable resource for future generations of fishing enthusiasts.

“The closed season provides additional protection while Murray Cod enter their spawning season. It is during this time that Murray Cod guard their nest sites and become very aggressive. Nests left without the protection of the parent for even short periods can result in other aquatic animals, smaller fish, yabbies and shrimp quickly eating the unguarded eggs.

“People are still permitted to fish the Murrumbidgee River in the ACT, downstream from the junction with the Gudgenby River; the Molonglo River downstream of the junction with the Queanbeyan River; and Canberra’s urban lakes and ponds which remain open to fishing all year round.

“It is an offence to take or target Murray Cod from all public waters during the closed season and any persons found doing so can be issued with an on-the-spot fine of $250 with the maximum penalty of up to $7000.

“The closure is in accordance with the Fisheries Act 2000 which is designed to conserve fish species and promote sustainable, high quality recreational fishing on ACT waterways.”

The closed season in the ACT is the same as those in force in NSW and Victorian waters.

For more information call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or visit www.environment.act.gov.au to obtain a copy of the Recreational Fishing information sheet.

A Native Species Conservation Plan for Murray Cod, which details the appropriate management of recreational fishing and conservation of wild population numbers in the ACT, is available here: www.environment.act.gov.au/cpr/fish/murray-cod-native-species-conservation-plan

- Statement ends -

ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Christopher Clarke

(02) 6207 1587

0422 660 867

christopher.clarke@act.gov.au


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