THE annual winter fishing closure to protect Australian bass and estuary perch starts 1 May in NSW and applies to all coastal rivers and estuaries.
The seasonal closure enforces a zero bag limit until 31 August, providing vital protection for these native species during their peak spawning period.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) director, Aquaculture and Industry Development, Ian Lyall, said the closure is a proven conservation measure that supports the long-term health of Australian Bass and Estuary Perch populations.
“Over winter, Australian Bass and Estuary Perch move downstream in large numbers, aggregating in estuarine waters where conditions are suitable for breeding,” Lyall said.
“This migration and spawning phase is critical to the future of these species, and the temporary no-take rule helps ensure they can reproduce successfully without disturbance.”
“Australian bass and estuary perch remain among NSW’s most popular sportfish, attracting anglers using bait, fly and lure fishing methods.
“Any Australian bass or estuary perch incidentally caught during the closure—in estuaries or in rivers downstream of dams—must be immediately released back into the water unharmed.”
“Protecting these fish at such a vulnerable stage is key to maintaining strong populations into the future.”
Lyall clarified that the closure does not extend to stocked freshwater impoundments or rivers above dams, where the species do not spawn naturally.
