My big catch
State government seeking feedback on proposed fishing regulations
The Victorian Government is seeking public feedback on proposed regulatory changes that will benefit the fishing and aquaculture sectors of the state.
The Fisheries Regulations 2019 are designed to ensure effective and efficient management of the state’s fish resources and support a productive aquaculture industry for the next 10 years.
Victorian Fisheries Authority chief executive officer Travis Dowling has encouraged anglers, commercial fishers, seafood producers and the community to have their say on the proposed laws that apply to the Indigenous, recreational and commercial sectors.
“We know Victorians love their seafood and fishing, so we’re asking everyone to get involved by providing valuable information and perspectives that can help shape and improve their experience in Victoria,” Mr Dowling said.
The Department of Transport and the Victorian Fisheries Authority have jointly developed the proposed regulations following consultation with key stakeholders.
Proposed changes include changes to size and bag limits for some species and permitting additional types of equipment that can be used.
The Victorian Government is also working to improve opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons in recreational fishing, and the proposed regulations will provide an exemption from the requirement to purchase and hold a recreational fishing licence.
All submissions in relation to the proposed regulations will be considered before the Minister for Fishing and Boating makes a final decision on whether to proceed with the proposed regulations.
To have your say or for more information, head to getinvolved.transport.vic.gov.au/fishreg2019.
I would also like to remind everyone to keep sending photos of your big catch. Please forward images to [email protected] along with the type of fish, weight, length, location and your name in the body of the email.
Also, if you see or suspect illegal fishing activity any time over summer, phone the 24-hour reporting line 13 FISH (13 34 74).
Fishing Reports
Anglesea
Salmon still being caught off local beaches
The odd reports of some pinkies being caught
Reports of some flathead still being caught offshore
A few whiting also being caught
Thanks to the Rusty Angling Club Anglesea
Barwon Heads
Reports of snapper and pinkies offshore
The occasional gummy shark has been reported
Some flathead catches have been reported
Some whiting, trevally and salmon in the Barwon River
Most local beaches are still reporting catches of salmon
Torquay
King George whiting reports in close
Pinkies and some snapper offshore
Flathead also being reported
Salmon being caught off local beaches continue
The odd gummy shark or schoolie are still being reported
Spring Creek sees fishing for bream continue
Reports of some trout being reported at Bullen Merri
Thanks to the Torquay Angling club
Queenscliff
St Leonards is still seeing reports of King George whiting, flathead and squid
Reports from Clifton Springs show a few whiting, flathead and some good calamari
Queenscliff reports whiting, flathead, pinkies and some good squid catches
The Creek is reporting the odd trevally and some salmon catches
Swan Bay is still producing reports of calamari and whiting
Point Lonsdale is reporting continuous catches of trevally and salmon, as well as squid off the pier
The White Lady is seeing few whiting, with reports of some nice calamari
Indented Head has seen reports of flathead, King George whiting and calamari
Club Corner
Bellarine Pirates is holding its Annual Squid Challenge over 10 days from this Friday until October 27. $10 entry and all prizes are mystery weights, and trophies for heaviest in categories for adults, juniors and nippers. Comp HQ is Clifton Springs Boat Harbour. For more details, phone Phil on 0411 215 146.
Remember
If you are an angling club and wish to let people know what’s going on within your club, email [email protected] and we will post your club news here.