Saltwater Trust Allocation

2008-09 $35,315

Aim

Investigate the biology and fishery of estuary perch in coastal catchments in NSW

Background

Estuary perch is a relatively common fish that inhabits coastal rivers and lakes throughout NSW. The species is fast becoming an icon species for estuary sport-fishers using artificial lures and flies. Many fish are released following capture. Very little is known about the biology and ecology of estuary perch, although there may be some parallels with Australian bass. Estuary perch can grow to 10 kg and 75 cm in length and they appear to spawn in the lower reaches of rivers in winter and spring. However, their ecological requirements and life history characteristics, including reproductive biology, size, age and location of spawning, juvenile and adult habitat associations and age and growth rate are all unknown. This study is being undertaken by University of Wollongong and NSW DPI and will investigate the above biology and demographic characteristics of estuary perch and describe the fishery, including documenting the quantities, sizes, methods of capture and rates of release. Information on the biology and fishery of estuary perch will be distributed to recreational anglers and the wider community.