BRUCE Schumacher, chairman of the NSW Advisory Council of Recreational Fishing (ACORF) contacted the Recreational Fishing Alliance to clarify ACORF’s stance on proposed changes to mulloway size and catch limits.
Schumacher said that the issue had indeed been discussed by ACORF and that the body supports the introduction of a 75cm minimum legal length for all fishing sectors.
He also said ACORF supports the introduction of a bag limit of two for recreational fishers; does not support any bycatch provisions for undersize mulloway by commercial fishers; and supports the introduction of a seasonal closure for Ocean Hauling and Estuary General Fishers during the summer period.
ACORF also suggested that further consideration be given to funding a buyout of Estuary General Fishing meshing entitlements (endorsements/shares) in major systems, including Hawkesbury, Shoalhaven and Clarence Rivers, to further reduce fishing pressure on juvenile mulloway.
Schumacher said that ACORF’s position was conveyed in very strong terms, to all members of the mulloway resource management committee.
