Australian Bass and Estuary Perch Closure

Attention all recreational fishers! It’s important to note that the annual fishing closure for Australian Bass and Estuary Perch is set to begin on May 1st and will affect all rivers and estuaries in New South Wales (NSW). This closure is in place for a period of four months, until August 31st.

During this time, a zero-bag limit will be enforced to help protect the native fish species. This means that anglers are not allowed to keep any Australian Bass or Estuary Perch caught during the closure period. This conservation measure is aimed at ensuring that the fish can spawn without disturbance, thereby promoting the growth of the population and sustaining the natural ecosystem. It’s essential that we all play our part in preserving the aquatic life of our waterways.

It’s important to note that the zero-bag limit only applies to these fish species caught in rivers and estuaries, where they breed during the winter months. However, if you are fishing in freshwater dams or in rivers above impoundments, you are allowed to keep any Australian Bass or Estuary Perch caught during this period, as these areas do not serve as breeding grounds for these fish.

It’s crucial that recreational fishers respect the fishing closure and adhere to the zero-bag limit to ensure the sustainability of these species. Fisheries officers will be patrolling the waterways during this period to ensure compliance with these regulations, and any violations will result in significant penalties.

Let’s work together to protect our precious aquatic ecosystems and preserve them for future generations to enjoy!