WHARF fishers in Sydney Harbour are being reminded to act responsibly and considerately, following a number of complaints from the community.
Department of Primary Industries, Acting Director Recreational Fisheries, Bryan Van der Walt, said ferry wharves in Sydney Harbour provide some great fishing locations, but fishers should be respectful of other people, including neighbouring residents.
“Authorities have received complaints about excessive noise by fishers late at night at some wharves,” Mr Van der Walt said.
“Reports have also been received of recreational fishers not reeling in their lines when ferries approach and litter and fish waste being left on the wharves.
“The wharves are managed by Roads and Maritime Services which has been working closely with DPI and recreational fishing groups to promote responsible fishing behaviour on the wharves. The primary purpose of the wharves is to provide commuter access to Sydney ferries but fishing has traditionally been permitted on the wharves.
“Recreational fishers are reminded to help keep Sydney Harbour’s ferry wharves open to fishing and ensure all fishers have the opportunity to continue to enjoy fishing from these wharves.”
Fishers are reminded to follow some basic advice to minimise impact on other members of the community, including:
Be considerate of others and keep noise to a minimum, especially in residential areas and especially late at night; Collect and dispose of all litter, bait, fish waste and discarded tackle responsibly; Vessels and commuters have priority at ferry wharves – wind in fishing lines quickly before ferries reach the wharves; Do not obstruct passengers; Follow all recreational fishing rules; Respect your access to fish from these facilities or risk potential loss of access.
“Fishing is a great pastime, enjoyed by many, and the majority of fishers do the right thing,” Mr Van der Walt said.
“We hope those fishers continue to do the right thing to help ensure these great fishing spots remain open to the public.”
For more information, visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries
