RECREATIONAL SEA FISHERIES NEWS

Rock lobster changes proposed

Proposed rule changes for the Tasmanian rock lobster fishery and options to rebuild stocks on the East Coast are now open for public comment until 30 May 2022.

These changes are intended to improve longterm stock health and fishery management, ensuring the fishery is sustainable and resilient.

Proposed rule changes

The main proposal for all fishers is introducing regional size limit zones that align with rock lobster growth rates and maturity sizes.

Proposals for recreational fishers include:

• Group sharing of catch from pots;

• Future reporting of recreational catch;

• Zone transiting provisions;

• Phone and electronic reporting of lost or irretrievable pots; and

• Allowing recreational lobsters to be held on unattended vessels.

Proposals for commercial fishers include:

• Mandatory vessel monitoring systems;

• Expanding the 60-pot area;

• Changes to transiting and reporting provisions;

• Changes to personal possession provisions; and

• Changes to some quota monitoring arrangements.

East Coast policy

Serious stock challenges on the East Coast remain and the current rebuilding plan is due to end in 2023. Your views are sought on:

• Stock rebuilding and biomass targets;

• Monitoring catch;

• Future management and catch share scenarios;

• Translocating lobsters and stock enhancement options; and

• Recreational only areas.

Have your say

The public consultation paper and information on how to have your say via the online form or email is available at: www.fishing.tas.gov.au/ rocklobster-review

• fish cleaning tables, bins, tables, shelters and lighting;

• toilets near fishing facilities;

• paths, steps, walkways or other access routes to fishing locations; and

• other facilities directly associated with recreational shore-based fishing.

Small grants - available to incorporated notfor-profit organisations (including community groups and fishing clubs) municipal councils and other land managers are eligible to apply.

Better Fishing Grants now available

Under the $2 million Investing in Improved Facilities for Recreational Fishers and Local Communities commitment, the Tasmanian Government is continuing to provide grants to make recreational sea fishing more accessible to Tasmanians.

Grants of up to $150,000 are available for facilities that improve recreational sea fishing opportunities in Tasmania.

Funding for both large projects (up to $150,000) and small projects (up to $15,000) is available.

These may include installing or upgrading:

• pontoons, jetties or other structures for recreational fishing;

Large grants - applications are open to public land managers where facilities are proposed to be located. Individuals and organisations with project ideas are encouraged to contact Recreational Fisheries, NRE to liaise with land managers on their behalf.

For more information and to apply, go to: www. fishing.tas.gov.au/better-fishing-grants Need more information?

• Get a copy of the Recreational Sea Fishing Guide from Service Tasmania

• Download the Tasmanian Sea Fishing Guide app

• Go to www.fishing.tas.gov.au or www.facebook.com/FisheriesTasmania

• Phone: 1300 720 647 or 03 6165 3233

• Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au