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Government of Western Australia - Department of Fisheries
Size limits for some species that suffer barotrauma like baldchin groper will be removed under proposed new changes.
Friday 11 November 2016

Simplifying size limit rules for WA fishers

We have undertaken a major review of all finfish size limits across Western Australia as part of our ongoing efforts to reduce red tape and simplify the State’s fishing rules.

The science-based review has the aim of ensuring size limits contribute meaningfully to the sustainable management of individual species.

For example, for a range of species such as baldchin groper, which often do not survive post-capture release due to barotrauma, it is proposed that the minimum size limits be abolished.

And for fish like Australian salmon and Samson fish that are often not retained or targeted as sports fish, it is also proposed the minimum size limits are removed.

Finfish size limits will remain where necessary to ensure ongoing sustainability but, where possible, they will be simplified and standardised for many commonly caught species – a win for both fishers and sustainable management.

Public comment on the propsed changes is invited before 23 December 2016, with the changes to the size limits planned early to mid-2017. 

 
For more information on the current size limits, see our recreational fishing rules.
 
You can also download our Recreational fishing guide or pick up a copy from our offices and participating information outlets.

Last modified: 11/11/2016 6:07 PM

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