Most Australians consider fishing as a recreational activity. In fact, a pretty good number engage in recreational fishing, with over three million recreational anglers casting lines for snappers, whiting, and flatheads to date.
Image Source: Unsplash
With the abundance and diversity of species, enthusiasts can attest that there truly is no adventure as distinctive and exciting as fishing in Australia. So, if you happen to be visiting your mates and you’ve got fishing on the itinerary, then make sure you know the things to do and the things to avoid when fishing in the Land Down Under.
DO’S WHEN FISHING
1. Follow state and territory laws for fishing.
Image Source: Unsplash
Compared to other countries, recreational fishing remains relatively unrestricted in Australia. However, you have to abide by the relevant state and territory recreational fishing rules and regulations, which include allowed species, bag and size limits, gear restrictions, and licence requirements.
For example, you need to know where you are allowed to fish. In a no-fishing zone, you’ll have to store your fishing gear. Plus, you also need to know where you can anchor as there are places where you will not be allowed to do so, including marine sanctuaries and research settings.
Where are you allowed to fish at the Australian Marine Parks? Recreational fishing is allowed in almost all zones, except at the sanctuary and at the national park zones. You can also bring your fishing skills to the test in just about every Commonwealth water and Coral Sea reefs around the country. But if you are planning to fish recreationally at the Recreational Use Zone at Lord Howe Island’s Elizabeth Reef, you will need to acquire a permit.
In some territories of Australia, fishing licenses are not even required. And if they are, as in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria, the licences are easily affordable. Plus, both locals and non-resident anglers pay the same exact fees.
2. Always fish with caution.
Being extra cautious never hurt anyone, so fish with caution. Even the most experienced angler still practice basic fishing safety precautions, including always bringing a first aid kit and informing at least one other person that you are going out fishing on a boat by yourself. Also, keep hooks and fishing rods properly stowed when not in use to avoid unnecessary snags and injuries. Check out Black Hole fishing rods and how they can be easily stored for an angler’s safety.
3. Respect private property.
This is a no-nonsense reminder. Do not cross private properties without permission. Any possible damages you cause the structures or species in the designated private property will translate to hefty fines and penalties, which could ruin your Australian fishing experience.
DON’TS WHEN FISHING
1. Don’t leave your footwear un-cleaned after every trip.
Make sure to dry your boots (or any footwear) and gear after every trip to ensure that you are not harbouring any undesirables in them. This basic step will prevent the transmissions of invasive species.
2. Don’t go fishing only to catch fish.
Image Source: Unsplash
If you’re only fishing to catch fish, then you’re missing the whole point of the activity. When you fish, it’s your chance to be one with nature, to understand fish behaviour, and find joy and satisfaction in the art of fishing, even without a catch.
3. Don’t keep fish that you are not going to eat.
Fishing for something that you are not going to eat is a wasteful exercise. So aside from the catch you’ll chomp on later, release all undersized or excess fish back to the waters as carefully and as quickly as possible.
Now that you already know the rules and regulations you as an angler need to remember, have a great day fishing!
Did you like this post? Why not Pin it?
Featured article
No Comments