Recreational fishers in south-west NSW are gearing up for the Murray Crayfish season, which officially opens today.
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the popular freshwater crustacean, which is mainly found in the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers, can only be caught during the winter months.
“Environmental factors, competition from introduced species and historical fishing pressure has led to widespread declines in Murray Crayfish populations,” Mr Saunders said.
“We want fishers to enjoy the highly anticipated season, but also make sure we can sustain the species for future generations.”
A number of rules are in place to protect the vulnerable breed and assist with its recovery.
Recreational fishers can use up to five hoop or lift nets per person where permitted and must have the letters “HN” (hoop nets), their name, year of birth and postcode on display on each float.
“The daily bag limit for Murray Crayfish is two and the possession limit is four, while the size limit is between 10 and 12cm,” Mr Saunders said.
“Officers will be patrolling waterways in the region to make sure these important rules are being followed and ensure people are catching responsibly.”
Recreational fishers are banned from taking berried females, removing or possessing the heads, tails or claws of crayfish, unless they are being prepared for immediate consumption, immediate use as bait or are being cleaned at a fish cleaning facility.”
Opera house style yabby traps are also banned in all NSW waters.
For detailed information on the fishing rules and Murray Crayfish, visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries.
Any suspected illegal fishing activity should be reported through DPI’s FishSmart app or to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536.
