A series of meetings to discuss possible bans or restrictions on fishing for mako sharks are being planned, a government official told Fisho today.
Early this month Fishing World broke the story that federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett could be forced to ban all fishing for makos under international obligations under the Convention for the Conservation of Migratory Species treaty. See article here.
Fisho followed up today with the Environment Department in Canberra and was told that the Department is planning meetings with stakeholders – including anglers and fishing groups – to discuss the ramifications of the CMS ruling on makos and outline possible measures that could be introduced as part of Australia’s obligations under the international treaty.
It is understood that game fishing groups oppose any bans on angler targeting makos, although some sources have said that a catch & release policy could be an acceptable compromise.
More on this issue as it comes to hand.
