Coastcare Issues

Fishing

Did you know that…

  • There are around 4.5 million recreational anglers in Australia.
  • Up to 30% of sharks observed have a hook or some fishing related attachments in their mouths
  • 95% of hooked seabirds are reportedly hooked during active fishing

Recreational fishing is one of Australias favourite pastimes and a great way to enjoy our fantastic coastline. However, recreational fishing can contribute to the decline of fish stocks, degradation of fish breeding and nursery areas, loss of habitat and loss of species.

Australia's $2.3 billion commercial fishing industry is vital to our economy and an important part of our history and culture. It is also the backbone of many rural and regional centres, estimated to generate around 100,000 jobs and inject over $10 billion into the economy.

Overfishing is one of the biggest problems as many of our fisheries are over, fully or heavily fished by recreational fishermen as well as he commercial fishing industry.What can I do to help?

  • Never throw old lines, bait bags, ropes or rubbish overboard, off rock platforms or on the beach.
  • Always have a covered bin for rubbish on your boat, to make sure that none of it blows away. Take it back to land to dispose of it properly.
  • Pick up any plastics or rubbish you see in the water or on the beach and put them in a bin.
  • If your line gets snagged, make sure you remove it rather than throw it back.
  • Report all sightings of marine mammals, birds and fish that are entangled in rubbish to the relevant authority in your state.
  • If you fish for sport, not for food, consider getting involved in a sportfish tagging program which means when you catch a fish you tag it then throw it back. The tags provide valuable information in fish movements, growth and breeding patterns.
  • Know the regulations that apply to fish size and species. Some fish, including bait, are protected and can not be taken. Keep up to date with the regulations.
  • Take only what you need when fishing for food.
  • Return any unwanted or undersized fish to the water as soon as possible. Handle fish as little as possible, and with wet hands to avoid causing damage to their scales or rubbing off their protective slime.
  • Consider barbless, corroding, or circle hooks when fishing