VICTORIAN anglers can now use their mobile phones to check whether they are in a no-take marine park zone.
Parks Victoria has introduced the “Can I Fish Here?” tool in partnership with Fisheries Victoria as part of its Recreational Fishing Guide app which is available for iPhone and Android.
The new app uses a phone’s geolocational ability to show anglers if they are inside a no-take zone (a red warning message), close to one (an orange message) or safely clear (a green message). Maps of MPAs are also included.
The app will overcome the limitations of paper maps and boundary marks.
The first of its kind in Australia, the free application features colour illustrations of more than 65 species found in Victoria’s waterways. Anglers can identify their catch and confirm size requirements and bag limits, as well as access information on permitted equipment and closed seasons.
The application also allows anglers to buy a recreational fishing licence online.
For more information go to: www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/recreational-fishing/recreational-fishing-application-for-smartphones