Rock lobster catch app trial

Recreational rock lobster fishers can now log their catches and fishing details in a new Rock Lobster Catch Monitoring app. The app is part of a trial to gather real-time catch data to better manage the rock lobster fishery.

Using the app is voluntary and your feedback will help develop future versions. Available now from the Apple and Google stores.

Download and Win!!: Log your catch and send in your feedback - you can win great prizes including cray cookers and PFD yokes.

Recreational abalone catch limits

The Legislative Council recently rescinded several rules relating to abalone catch limits for recreational and Aboriginal fishers that were implemented in 2019. This means some bag and possession limits revert to pre-2019 levels, and apply statewide, not regionally.

As at 9 November 2021, the statewide recreational abalone catch limits are:

· a daily bag limit of 10 abalone;

· a possession limit of 20 abalone;

· a non-licensed possession limit of 5 abalone on land and 0 abalone on water; and

· no boat limit.

All other rules implemented in November 2019 continue to apply.

East Coast FADs deployed soon

Five fish aggregating devices (FADs) will be deployed off Tasmania's east coast in the week before Christmas. The FADs, which provide structure in marine waters to enhance recreational fishing opportunities, will be located at Coles Bay (X 2), Binalong Bay, Pirates Bay and Wineglass Bay. See the map of locations.

A survey of people who fished near the FADs earlier this year revealed good catches including yellowtail kingfish and albacore tuna. Kingfish are expected to return to our waters around January as the sea temperature increases. Tight lines!

Fish responsibly this summer

If you're planning a fishing trip these summer holidays, don't forget to check the rules before you drop a line in the water. With some species experiencing depleting stocks including flathead and calamari, it's important that everyone follows the catch limits, measures their fish and checks that their gear is legal. Fishing guides and free rulers are available from Service Tasmania and tackle shops.

Check catch limits

Fishcare summer activities

Keep an eye out for the Fishcare trailer in your local area this summer. Due to changing COVID restrictions, we're not holding the usual learn-to-fish days in January but instead will be visiting local fishing spots and checking signage and jetty rulers.

New members for RecFAC

The Minister has recently appointed 12 new recreational fisher members to the Recreational Fisheries Advisory Committee. The Committee provides strategic advice to the Minister on recreational sea fishing matters including fishing rule reviews and policy. Read more about the Committee's work.

DPIPWE is now NRE Tas

The previous Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) is now named Department of Natural Resources and Environment of Tasmania (NRE Tas). As a result, some emails may go to your junk mailbox. Please inform your fishing colleagues so they keep up with Recreational Fishing News.