Have your say on the 'no take' trial for Eastern Blue Groper
by NSW DPI - Recreational Fisheries 4 Mar 2024 07:34 GMT
From 1 March 2024, fishing for Eastern Blue Groper (also known as blue, brown or red groper) by any method, including line fishing, is prohibited as part of a 12-month trial, to increase protection of this iconic species.
We would like to hear your feedback on making Eastern Blue Groper a 'no take' species in NSW, so please head to our website and complete the consultation form - www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/fishing-rules-and-regs/new-blue-groper-fishing-rule-changes
While most fishers complied with the existing fishing rules for Eastern Blue Groper, prohibiting line fishing for a 12-month trial period means the same rules apply for all fishers.
Anyone caught contravening the closure and taking Eastern Blue Groper in NSW by any method will face a $500 penalty infringement notice and/or a maximum court-imposed fines of $22,000 or imprisonment for 6 months (or both) for a first offence and $44,000 or imprisonment for 12 months (or both) for a second or subsequent offence.
The online feedback form is now open until 30 April 2024; however, NSW DPI Fisheries will continue consultation with stakeholders over the course of the 12 month trial.