AS Fisho reported yesterday, the NSW Government has announced fishing rule changes as the result of a review of grey nurse shark protection in the state. More details HERE.
As has come to light since yesterday’s announcement (and Fisho’s subsequent publishing of this news and a related comment piece by Jim Harwnell) rec fishing groups are bewildered by some of the restrictions relating to the new “no bait” policy at GNS aggregation sites. For example, as it currently stands the new rules would directly affect Sydney-based rock fishers who specifically target luderick, aka blackfish, with weed baits at a popular land-based location, Magic Point, in the eastern suburbs.
Fisho has learnt today that NSW DPI (Fisheries) plans to amend this “oversight” as soon as possible. We understand rock fishers will still be able to fish with weed, bread, and other baits such as prawns etc. at this location. We will keep you posted on further developments as they come to hand.
The new rules take effect from today Friday, September 21 2012. A 12-month advisory period will operate until 20 September 2013, during which fishers or SCUBA divers found to be in breach of the new rules will receive a caution for first offences.
NSW DPI today released an information sheet on the review process and new rules, which can be downloaded HERE.
Maps of affected locations can be downloaded below:
GNR – Fish Rock & Green Island map
GNR – Mermaid Reef map
GNR – North Solitary Island map
GNR – South Solitary Island map
GNR – Magic Point map
