Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin has announced a six week interim closure to help reduce fishing pressure on Queensland´s overfished snapper stock.
The closure will be put in place along the Queensland east coast next month making snapper, teraglin and pearl perch off limits until new management arrangements can be finalised.
“The interim closure from 15 February to 31 March 2011 is immediate action to protect and rebuild snapper stocks,” Mulherin said.
“The interim closure applies to all sectors – commercial, recreational and charter. Snapper, teraglin and pearl perch should not be targeted during this time and if incidentally caught should be returned to the water immediately.”
Minister Mulherin’s full statement can be read here.
More info at www.cabinet.qld.gov.au
