Murray Cod and Murray Crayfish season closes

6 Sep 2017

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is reminding recreational fishers that the annual Murray Cod and Murray Crayfish season closed last Friday, 1 September 2017.

DPI’s Senior Inland Recreational Fisheries Manager, Cameron Westaway said three-month fishing closure for Murray Cod aims to protect the native species during its breeding season.

“The native Murray Cod is a prized catch for freshwater anglers,as they can grow up to 1.8 metres and weigh up to 100 kilograms,” Mr Westaway said.

“From 1 September until 1 December 2017, fishing for Murray Cod in NSW waters is prohibited.

“However, fishers can continue to take Murray Cod within the legal size limit of 55cm to 75cm from Copeton Dam during the closure, as the fishery is maintained by stocking and research shows very low natural recruitment within the dam.”

Anglers are also reminded the Trout Cod, found in parts of the Murray-Murrumbidgee Rivers, are totally protected all year round.

“The Trout Cod protection area on the Murray River, between Yarrawonga Weir and Tocumwal Road Bridge, is closed to all forms of fishing during the Murray Cod closed season from September to December,” Mr Westaway said.

“The Murray Crayfish fishery is also closed all year as they are a vulnerable species and can only be legally taken in specified waters of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers from 1 June to 31 August.

“NSW recreational freshwater fishing laws are designed to protect, conserve and improve our fisheries resources for future generations.”

Information on freshwater fishing rules can be found online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/freshwater

Anyone who is unsure of the rules and regulations should contact their local Fisheries Office before they go fishing.

People can report suspected illegal fishing to the Fishers Watch Phone line on 1800 043 536.

Media contact: Jamie Jones (02) 6391 3686