FISHOS are reminded that the annual Murray cod and Murray crayfish seasons close on Tuesday, 1 September 2015.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) senior inland recreational fisheries manager, Cameron Westaway said the Murray cod fishery is subject to closed periods every year to protect the native species during its breeding season.
“The Murray cod is one of Australia’s largest freshwater fish growing up to 1.8 metres and weighing up to 50 kilograms,” Westaway said.
“From September, it is illegal to fish for this iconic species again until 1 December 2015.”
However fishers can continue to take Murray cod within the legal size slot limit of 55cm to 75cm from Copeton Dam during the closure, as the fishery is maintained by stocking and research shows very low natural recruitment within the dam.
Anglers are also reminded the trout cod, found in parts of the Murray-Murrumbidgee Rivers, and also the eastern freshwater cod, found in the Upper Clarence River in north eastern NSW, are totally protected all year round.
“Trout cod can be differentiated by Murray cod by their overhanging upper jaw, convex forehead and spotted markings,” Mr Westaway said.
“The trout cod protection area on the Murray River between Yarrawonga Weir and Tocumwal Road bridge is also closed to all forms of fishing during the Murray cod closed season from September to November inclusive.”
Westaway said Murray cod and Murray crayfish are a prized catch for freshwater fishers.
“The Murray crayfish fishery is closed all year as they are a vulnerable species and can only be legally taken in specified waters of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers from 1 June to 31 August,” Westaway said.
“NSW recreational freshwater fishing laws are designed to protect, conserve and improve our fisheries resources for future generations.”
Anyone who is unsure of the rules and regulations should contact their local Fisheries Office before they go fishing. Information on freshwater fishing rules can be found online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/freshwater.
