FISHING in the Mann and Nymboida Rivers in northern NSW reopened on Saturday 1 November, following a three month closure.
DPI Acting Director Fisheries Compliance, Patrick Tully, said the three month closure of the river from August 1 to October 31 is designed to protect the endangered Eastern Freshwater Cod during its breeding season.
“This now rare species of fish is now only found naturally in just two isolated tributaries of the Clarence River,” Mr Tully said.
“A relative of the Murray Cod, Eastern Freshwater Cod were first identified as a distinct species in the 1980s and the fishing closure is just one of a number of strategies that have been put in place to ensure the species’ survival.
“Fisheries scientists have identified that Eastern Freshwater Cod are most vulnerable during their breeding season and any fishing activity in the vicinity of brooding Eastern Freshwater Cod can have significant consequences for the survival of the species.
“With the breeding season for the Eastern Freshwater Cod drawing to an end fishing will reopen in the Mann River and all of its tributaries (including the Boyd River) upstream of its junction with the Clarence River and the Nymboida River and its tributaries from its junction with the Mann River upstream to Platypus Flat.”
Mr Tully said fishers are reminded that fishing for Eastern Freshwater Cod remains strictly prohibited.
“Persons found to be targeting or in possession of Eastern Freshwater Cod at any time or at any location, face penalty notices of $2,500 with maximum penalties of up to $220,000 and/or 2 years imprisonment or both upon prosecution,” Mr Tully said.
“These important fishing laws are in place to protect, conserve and improve the State’s fisheries resources for present and future generations.
“Fishers should expect to see fisheries officers patrolling waters to deter and detect any illegal activity.”
A summary of the recreational freshwater fishing rules can be found at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au and also in the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide.
