NSW Fisheries out in force for Murray Crayfish

[nsw_fisheries]

http://www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au/gen/news/fb_04apr23_cray.htm

"This document has been posted for information and to encourage discussion among yourselves. For more information from NSW Fisheries on the issue, please visit our web site on www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au"

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NSW Fisheries out in force for Murray Crayfish Season
April 23, 2004
The annual four-month Murray crayfish open season begins on Saturday May 1 and anglers should ensure they know the rules for catching this prized native species.

The Director-General of NSW Fisheries, Steve Dunn, said there would be regular patrols to check anglers are following the rules, which aim to ensure Murray crayfish are harvested sustainably.

“The species is found mainly in the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Edward rivers and needs to be protected from over-fishing because of its slow growth rate,” Mr Dunn said.

“Last year a NSW Fisheries operation resulted in 35 anglers being fined for Murray crayfish offences in one weekend. Our officers in southern NSW will again be out in force during the Murray crayfish season to ensure the rules are being followed.”

New rules for the species were introduced in December 2002. These are:

A bag limit of five applies to Murray crayfish. They must be at least 9cm in length, but only one greater than 12cm may be kept.

Murray crayfish can only be taken during the months of May, June, July and August.

A ban applies on taking Murray crayfish in trout waters.

Any female crayfish taken that are carrying eggs must be returned to the water immediately. Removing claws and tails in, on or adjacent to water is also banned.

Anglers are also reminded they need a NSW recreational fishing licence to fish in the Murray River and all other NSW waters.

Mr Dunn said Blowering Dam near Tumut will again be closed to fishing for Murray crayfish this season.

“The dam levels are still low and Murray crayfish are confined to a smaller area than usual, making them susceptible to over-fishing,” he said.

Murray crayfish measuring devices and brochures which provide details of areas closed to Murray cray fishing re available free from NSW Fisheries offices.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Eric Aubert on 8437 4948 or 0419 185 375.