Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW in Matraville, New South Wales | Sport & recreation

Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW

Locality: Matraville, New South Wales

Phone: +61 425 211 313

Address: PO Box 328 2036 Matraville, NSW, Australia

Website: http://www.rfansw.com.au

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• Sport & recreation
• Community organisation
• Environmental conservation organisation

25.01.2022 Once again recreational fishing and fisher access, bag and possession limits are reduced for the law abiding fisho, because NSWDPI Fisheries are under funded and under resourced by the NSW Government to do their job as intended under the NSW Fisheries Management Act and Regulations. Having Fisheries rules requires a range of dedicated Fisheries Activities to educate and keep the diverse recreational commercial and indigenous fishing community in check with looking after and s...haring our states publicly owned fish stocks. The RFA has made many approaches to Fisheries Ministers and Deputy Director Generals of Fisheries to provide ~50 more Fisheries Compliance and Enforcement staff across NSW, both fulltime or part time, to cater for peak period or specific tasked projects, along with ensuring these officers are from culturally diverse backgrounds who can readily engage their local communities. The majority of recreational fishers follow the NSW Fisheries Rules, its the ILLEGAL FISHERS when fishing who don't follow any rules, rape and pillage our waterways and natural resouces for profit selling their catch. As for those people that buy from these ILLEGAL FISHERS they are no better as they support illegal fishing too via the demand and supply of illegally taken fish, online using social media, chat rooms or things for sale advertising, selective supply and demand clients, topping up a fish mongers stock using the back door, or through ones own local community contacts. Its about time law abiding fishers start demanding a better outcome by Fisheries for the publicly owned fish stocks of NSW.

25.01.2022 HABITAT ACTION GRANTS EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 16 The Habitat Action Grants are funded from the Recreational Fishing Trusts which direct funding generated by the NSW... Recreational Fishing Fee towards on-ground actions to improve fish habitat and recreational fishing in NSW. Angling clubs, individuals, community groups, local councils and organisations interested in rehabilitating fish habitats in freshwater and saltwater areas throughout NSW can apply for small grants of $2,000 or large grants of up to $40,000. For more information visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/hag #nswdpi #habitatactiongrants #recfishingtrust #fishhabitat #recfishing #dpifisheries #nswfishing

25.01.2022 https://www.abc.net.au//federal-government-to-spe/12718596

25.01.2022 Rare Long-Term Yellowfin Tuna Recapture From time to time, DPI’s Game Fish Tagging Program is lucky enough to receive details of recaptures that come from remot...e regions of the Pacific Ocean. Recently, a game fish recapture form was submitted by a researcher from the Japanese Fisheries Research Institute. The fisheries researcher had received a tag from a skipper of an international longline vessel who had just returned from a long-distance fishing voyage throughout the Pacific Islands. During this trip, the longline vessel captured a mature tagged yellowfin tuna while fishing an area known as the Pocklington Trough, which is east of Rossel Island, PNG. A quick search of the database found that the tuna was tagged at the Southern Canyons offshore of Port Hacking, NSW. The fish was originally caught on 17 July 2016 by Gina Cleaver, who was fishing aboard her brother Chris's boat Double Edge. The juvenile tuna was estimated it to be only 5kg when it was tagged. Upon recapture, it weighed in at 61kg, highlighting the typically impressive growth rate of this species. The fish spent 1649 days at liberty and was caught more than 1330 nautical miles (~2460km) from its original release location. The Game Fish Tagging Program is a great example of your fishing fees at work!

24.01.2022 Are you looking forward to boating and fishing on NSW waterways this summer? Visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website to stay up to date about the... requirements for releasing fish into NSW waterways. You can also learn more about best fishing practices and guidelines to minimise impact on the environment and other members of the community. More information at https://fal.cn/3a2f8

23.01.2022 This news in a few hours ago that two rock fishers had been swept into the ocean along Marine Parade, no further information available as yet. UPDATE It appears a couple of rock hoping spearfishers copped a battering when trying to get out of the water. All are ok after some TLC by the Ambos we are told.... https://twitter.com/NSWAmbulance/status/1346996708085927939

23.01.2022 The NSW Government is developing a 20-year NSW Water Strategy to improve resilience of the state’s water resources over the coming decades. The NSW Water Strategy will address key challenges and opportunities for water management and service delivery across the state and set the strategic direction for the NSW water sector over the long-term. From 15 February to 28 March the draft NSW Water Strategy will be on public exhibition. You can have your say by providing written feed...back to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment. Submissions close at 11.59 pm (AEST) on Sunday 28 March 2021. To find out more: 1. Join us for a webinar on the development of the strategy, its priorities and the timelines for the final strategy, followed by a Q&A session. Register here to attend a webinar: Thursday 25 February from 10 - 11.30 am Monday 15 March 10 - 11.30 am Please register and dial in via the registration details on the day. 2. Go to our website for additional information and read the draft strategy. Email us at [email protected] if you have any questions. https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au//nsw-water-quality-obje

23.01.2022 An interesting story to listen too that many travelling southern fishis might like to listen too.

22.01.2022 Supporting our recreational fishers in Narooma today. SFF will always stand with you against lockouts.

22.01.2022 Two Incredible Snapper Recaptures! Have I caught the same fish twice? This a question many anglers often ask themselves, particularly those of us who practice ...catch & release. Previously, DPI has received reports of anglers recapturing dusky flathead, snapper and kingies which they’d originally tagged. However, we've never had this happen two times in quick succession. Gun angler and DPI Fisheries Manager Chris Cleaver has recaptured two different snapper that he originally tagged himself! The fish are pictured in order of capture and recapture below, with a separate shot showing the growth-encrusted tag in the first fish. The first snapper was originally tagged on 17 October 2019 and was measured at 72cm total length. Fast forward 330 days to 11 September 2020 and Chris recaptured the same fish! Upon recapture, the fish measured 78.5cm, highlighting an impressive growth rate for a mature fish. The second snapper was originally tagged on 8 May 2020 and was measured at 73cm total length. Chris recaptured the fish only 134 days later on 19 September 2020. Upon recapture, the fish measured 77cm. Both fish were originally caught on the South Coast of NSW and both were recaptured within 1km of their original release location, showing that some snapper tend to be resident fish. It should be mentioned that both of these fish were re-released again using a release weight. Could Chris catch one of them for a third time, or will it be another angler who gets to encounter one of these impressive reds? These recaptures highlight that snapper are a resilient species that are well suited to C&R, provided they’re handled with care. For hints and tips on best practice fish handling techniques, check out https://bit.ly/332ShWA. If you’re lucky enough to catch a tagged fish, please report the recapture to us at https://bit.ly/2O5AnOr.

22.01.2022 Recreational Fishing is a great activity that we all can enjoy around Sydney Harbour, any time of the day or night, providing you follow a few basic rules, from any of the few remaining favoured public foreshore parks. Check out the oysters and interesting weed growing off the park seawall, certainly looks fishy. Unfortunately back on land this is a classic example of what fishers get blamed for, however fishers know best and spotted a group of local Year 12 Students, starte...d out all innocent enjoying a quite drink, which then ended in broken glass, trashed park facilities, and fast food rubbish left littered everywhere across a popular park. Maybe its time local residence asked Councils, or the Police got involved, to ensure those people cleaned up their mess, or name and shame by showing the faces of these party goers. So as the silly season approaches think a little about looking after and keeping your favourite fishing spot clean and tidy. Do the Right Thing, or Dob in a Tosser to the EPA or local Police Station.

21.01.2022 Armed to the teeth with 50ib and 100lb spinning rods wandering Walsh Bay looking for the kings who pop up at any time and any place. Kings to 20kg being caught this week. I am ready.

21.01.2022 The RFA has been at the forefront of defending the environment for many years and with a 20 year history of environmental work including partnerships on projects like inshore and offshore artificial reefs, FADs and now shellfish reef restorations we are always thinking about the fish. These new shellfish reefs are a great move for local ecosystems, economies and fish stocks. Fishers, divers and snorkellers will be involved in the monitoring over the years. Check out the picture of the RFA President from 30 years ago from his Botany Bay fishing archives.

20.01.2022 Marine Park Sanctuary Zone Stoush- Battleground Batemans Bay: Recreational anglers have exactly the same concerns about preserving the marine environment as the rest of the community. We are not here to rape and pillage the ocean....Continue reading

19.01.2022 Inflatable lifejackets must be serviced annually or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Click the link to register for a livestream clinic where we’ll take you through the self-servicing process: https://bit.ly/32hbrdW

19.01.2022 Fishing safety warning for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 28th, 29th & 30th September, and Thursday and Friday the 1st and 2nd October 2020 until midnight for the following Coastal Areas - Byron Coast, Coffs Coast, Macquarie Coast and Hunter Coast BOM AM UPDATE Issued at 3:35 am EST on Friday 2nd October 2020 for the period until midnight EST Friday 2nd October 2020....Continue reading

19.01.2022 The ongoing Lake Illawarra Cockle 'Sagar' continues, the change in the Cockle Bag Limit from 50 per licence/exempt recreational fisher, to 20 late last year, has really not changed much as locals report in this WIN News story. This is about ILLEGAL FISHING and some members of our Fishing Community just blatantly breaking the law, no matter when or where around the lake or any other waterway where cockles are, they are illegally taking more cockles, Lake Macquarie, Jervis Bay,... the Shoalhaven River, Brisbane Waters, Botany Bay, Georges River, Parramatta River and other parts of Sydney Harbour. Its about time the Minister #AdamMarshall and #NSWDPIFISHERIES fessed up, the advice they received and the changed they implemented was NEVER going to address the problem. ONCE an ILLEGAL FISHER always an ILLEGAL FISHER! Its now the time to leave the law abiding recreational fishers and families alone and take the hardline approach, long term more full time Fisheries Officers need to be employed to address the illegal fishing and supply and demand networks that exist across NSW, its not just happening to cockles, illegal fishers raiding crab pots recreational and commercial, taking undersize or protected fish, or fishing in the wrong places Its also clear #NSWFISHERIES need a dedicated fully Government Funded focused CALD Community Fisheries Compliance and Education Team, recruiting a range of multi lingual CALD Community Fisheries Officers and Fishing Educators to address the need that our states publicly owned fish resources MUST be RESPECTED, no ILLEGAL FISHING ANYMORE, take what you need now, don't take the limit. Resources such as translated Fisheries Regulation are great and assist the majority of recreational fishers, its about time the #ILLEGALFISHINGNETWORKS across NSW were all taken down, given the chance to explain if they can, and then put were they belong. You can do you part by calling 1800 043 536 or going online via the NSW FishSmart App, or via the website here, complete the report add your photos and always ask for a call back. https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/compliance You may also like to contact the Minister Adam Marshall and share your thoughts about #ILLEGALFISHINGINNSW via his Ministeral Contact page here https://www.nsw.gov.au//minister-for-agriculture-and-west/

19.01.2022 QLD Licenced Prawn Trawler Operator Apprehended A QLD licenced Prawn Trawler operator has been apprehended during a joint response by NSW DPI Tweed Heads Fisher...ies Officers and NSW Police Marine Area Command. On 12th of August this year officers boarded the Queensland endorsed prawn trawler, which operates out of Southport, QLD where investigations identified that the trawler was operating illegally without endorsement to take prawns from NSW waters. The trawler had been targeting prawns in NSW offshore waters, in approximately 55 fathoms, 12 nautical miles east off Kingscliff, NSW. The trawler was directed back to Tweed Heads where three trawl nets were removed and seized. About 70 kg of prawns were returned alive to the water. The maximum penalty for a person who uses a net to take fish for sale in NSW waters without the appropriate endorsement is $22,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment (or both) for a first offence. The maximum penalty for a person who takes fish for sale from NSW waters without a commercial fishing licence is $110,000 for a first offence. A prosecution brief is being compiled and the master of the vessel is expected to appear in court over the charges. Report illegal fishing via the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or online at: http://tiny.cc/c7nmsz

19.01.2022 Sad news from WA with a 60year old man died near Esperance, he was pulled from the water yesterday afternoon by rescuers and could not be revived. Our thoughts go out to the fishers family and friends. Please stay safe, always plan your trip, tell some where you are going and when you will be home, fish safely wear a life jacket and proper non slip footwear, and always fish with a friend.... #DONTPUTYOURLIFEONTHLINE, #ROCKFISHINGSAFELY #RFANSW

19.01.2022 Hazardous Surf Warning for New South Wales for TODAY Monday 15th February 2021 until midnight, covering the following Coastal Areas - SYDNEY COAST Broken Bay to Port Hacking and adjacent coastal zones. BOM PM UPDATE Issued at 3:57 pm EDT on Monday 15th February 2021 for the period until midnight EDT Monday 15th February 2021.... Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming in the following areas. Monday 15th February Hazardous Surf Warning for: Sydney Coast Weather Situation A trough of low pressure lies off the northern New South Wales coast while a high sits to the south of Tasmania. This pattern is producing fresh to strong southerly winds along much of the coast, and these winds are expected to strengthen through the day across most coastal waters as the trough moves closer to the coast. Winds will turn southeasterly across most coastal waters this evening, and then remain east to southeasterly throughout the remainder of the week as the high slowly drifts over the southern Tasman Sea. Issued at 12:29 pm EDT on Monday 15th February 2021 for the period until midnight EDT Monday 15th February 2021. Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, and swimming in the following areas. Monday 15th February Hazardous Surf Warning for: Sydney Coast Safety Advice RFANSW, NSW Police Force and Marine Area Command advise that: - People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas. - Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf. - Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage. - Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket. - Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan. The next warning will be issued by 5:00 am EDT Tuesday.

19.01.2022 Lake Illawarra cockles are back in the news, recreational fishers should stay within the NSW individual fisher bag and possession limits, and have a current Recreational Fishing Fee/Licence. As for anyone suspecting or seeing any suspicious or possibly illegal fishing, then the advice is to call the Fishers Watch Hotline 1800 043 536, and for locals not to take things into their own hands. https://www.facebook.com/220709751279109/posts/4003148653035181/

19.01.2022 Get Ready For Gone Fishing Day! Gone Fishing Day is on again this Sunday, 18 October, 2020! NSW DPI is celebrating this great national day of fishing fun by st...reaming a special how-to on fishing basics featuring well-known angling identities Steve Starlo Starling and Al McGlashan! Tune into the DPI Fisheries Facebook page at 7pm this Friday, 16 October, to watch Starlo and Al cover off on the basic tackle, rigs and baits you need to have a chance at catching olden perch in our inland dams and rivers and bream and flathead in coastal waters. Our Friday night timeslot gives you the time to learn from the experts and get your gear sorted in order to make this Sunday’s Gone Fishing Day celebrations the best yet! As well as fantastic practical info and advice on fishing rules, we’ve got a stack of awesome prizes up for grabs during the video including kids’ fishing outfits and an array of great lures. No matter if you’re young or old, Gone Fishing Day is a great opportunity to get out on the water. While we can't promote large gatherings at the moment, we’ve worked with Starlo and Al to produce a great video filled with handy tips and advice. Make sure you tune in at 7pm this Friday to check it out! And remember you can watch it over and over again, even while you’re fishing on Sunday! You may also want to download the free Gone Fishing Day app from the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation for more opportunities to celebrate our national day of fishing. The app is available to download right now. NSW Gone Fishing Day celebrations are supported by the Recreational Fishing Trusts and DPI. Tight lines for Sunday!

18.01.2022 Thinking about breaching fishing regulations? Your boat may be destroyed just like this one An illegally-modified fishing boat was crushed today and the owne...r fined $6,000 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court for illegal crabbing. The fisher modified the seats of the vessel to create concealed compartments where QBFP officers found regulated mud crabs. The fisher knew that taking female and undersized crabs was against the law and had received previous infringement notices. The 3.7m modified boat was deemed unsafe and crushed into recycling material. The motor and trailer were not destroyed and will be sold. QBFP continues to use a range of techniques and technology to uncover illegal activities and protect Queensland fisheries resources. Report illegal fishing activities to Fishwatch on 1800 017 116.

18.01.2022 The main issue that should worry all fishers in NSW is how under Niall Blair MP we had "evidence based approach" but now the RFA is hearing the words "best available science" being used by NSW DPI. The differnce could be 20 years in technology and data when talking on best available science. We all enjoy hearing the old timers telling us how good it was 50 years ago but NSW was a totally different place when we had 1.7 million residents as opposed to almost 5 million today. ...Do we want current and updated data, the answer is a no-brainer! BEST AVAILABLE vs CURRENT AND UPDATED....I know what we would prefer to see here at the RFA. Tight Lines

18.01.2022 Sydney Harbour is an incredible place to go fishing anytime of the day with family and friends, be that from on the water, from your front yard or any publicly accessible space. Public and Commuter Wharves are so important to thousands of recreational fishers, of all ages, of all abilities, who just wish to get out and about, to enjoy themselves and not be hasseled in any way. Please look after them all, when you get to your fishing spot do a quick clean, then when you leave... ensure no one can point a finger at fishos for leaving any mess, fishing waste, hooks or fishing line around so that we all continue to enjoy wharf access. Remember always be polite to commuters and other users of these public spaces, keep the noise down - particularly at night, keep the place cleaner than you found it. Fishing our public wharves is a privilege not a right so we need to do the right thing. https://www.facebook.com/RFANSW/videos/1839975966032902/

18.01.2022 Does the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts need a proper and independent audit and review in 2021? With the bulk of the next 3 years of licence money about to be carved up between NSWDPI Fisheries and the NSW Government, the RFA President Stan Konstantaras is urging the Minister, Adam Marshall MP to pick the phone up and call the RFA, then sit down and discuss why over 20%, or more than $3 million pa, is syphoned off annually for Administration by the Government and why up to $...7.5 million is used to pay Government salaries and high overheads. The RFA is concerned that some of the funding could being used to bolster the NSW Government bottom line and that the recreational anglers of NSW could be being cheated out of a big part of the $15 million dollars the fishing licence fee raises annually. The RFA has used numerous Freedom of Information requests, information gathered from within Parliamentary Hearings like Budget Estimates and bi-partisan political support, to seek out answers with hellp from the NSW Upper House. The picture that is being painted is of great concern to the Recreational Fishing Alliance. At a meeting of RFA Delegates back in 2019 it was voted upon that the RFA initiate this investigation and engage those responsible for holding this Government accountable for their use of such public resources. The RFA hopes to have its brief ready to go by early 2021, but is hopeful that the Minister picks up the phone and sits down with the RFA in the first few weeks of 2021, so they can get an idea of how he thinks the money should be spent to give the best value back to the recreational fishers of NSW.

18.01.2022 Fines for Inland Threatened Species Offences More patrols across inland rivers in NSW have uncovered a number of offences involving threatened species. At Buro...nga on the Murray River 2 men have been issued penalty notices after being found in possession of 7 Silver Perch which fortunately could be returned to the water live. 3 persons were also found in possession of Silver Perch at Bedgerebong on the Lachlan River. At Barmah on the Murray River a man was issued a $2500 penalty notice for taking a Trout Cod. Once widespread throughout the Murray Darling river system, Silver Perch have declined to low numbers or disappeared from most of their former range. They are completely protected from fishing in rivers and streams in NSW but can be taken in listed dams where they are stocked, see https://bit.ly/3nc0dz5 for a listing of these. In those waterways they have a minimum size of 25cm, bag limit of 5 and possession limit of 10. Completely protected from fishing, Trout Cod can be distinguished from Murray Cod by their overhanging top jaw. Populations are now limited to a single self-sustaining population in the Murray River between the Yarrawonga Weir and Barmah. Several populations have also been re-established in Victoria and NSW by stocking of captive bred fingerlings or through translocation. The Murray River and its NSW tributaries from the Yarrawonga Weir downstream to the Newell Highway road bridge at Tocumwal is also completely closed to fishing for all species during this time to assist protecting the significant population of Trout Cod in that section. Report illegal fishing via the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or online at: https://bit.ly/3dMPFCX

17.01.2022 Look at all those jellyfish! The ABC Brisbane news helicopter spotted this bloom of jellyfish in waters off Bribie Island this afternoon. Doesn't exactly make you want to jump in for a swim, does it?

17.01.2022 The ICAC validates what the RFA has been saying about water management in NSW! The RFA was pleased to read The ICAC report that investigated complaints of corruption in the management of water in NSW and systemic non-compliance with the Water Management Act 2000. It also detailed two secret operations, Operation Mezzo and Operation Avon. Operation Avon was triggered by the ABC Four Corners Pumped program and investigated how decisions made by former Nationals Water Minist...ers including Katrina Hodgkinson, Kevin Humphries and Niall Blair and the relevant departments benefited irrigators, particularly in the Northern Basin. While the ICAC report did not make findings of corruption, it was scathing of a decade of water mismanagement, particularly around the Barwon Darling River. The most recent and still unanswered correspondence the RFA has sent to the NSW Government has seen ICAC support the RFA’s position and as The ICAC Report puts it ,water management over the past decade has been inconsistent with the law, which requires the water source and its dependent ecosystems to be prioritised over extraction", saying the practical effects of this approach, particularly in the Barwon-Darling, have often been prejudicial to the environment . So whilst we wait for the NSW Governments response back to the RFA, fish will continue to die and the aquatic environment will still suffer with another kick in the guts, recreational fishers will be asked to clean up the mess once again. Read the latest correspondence at this link. http://www.rfansw.com.au/nsw-and-federal-government-corres/ http://www.rfansw.com.au//RFA-to-Ministers-re-irrigation-s http://www.rfansw.com.au//RFA-to-Minister-Marshall-regardi

17.01.2022 Some more great news, however #NSWDPIFISHERIES please tell us about this on going research you are doing in relation to these stocking events over the past few years and what you have gleaned to date? Or is that just more information you are unwilling to share, or plain old miss information your spinning again to recreational angler's.

17.01.2022 Citizen Scientists Helping With Fisheries Research DPI Fisheries staff recently headed out to our 31 Research Angler Program (RAP) drop-off locations and colle...cted hundreds of fish frames kindly donated by anglers. Big shout out to all you citizen scientists out there! Thanks guys! Along with our listed drop-off locations, we also collected some big snapper from a taxidermist. Trophy size snapper such as the ones donated by Phil (pictured first) and Aaron will provide valuable research data and have also been immortalised in all their beauty. If you’re interested in finding out the age of these fish, as well as interesting facts about your favourite NSW species, make sure you are signed up to receive our RAP newsletter. To subscribe, go to https://bit.ly/2qy6Xzc. If you’re interested in participating in the RAP by donating your fish frames, check out https://bit.ly/31laTTW for more info, including where your nearest drop-off location is. The Research Angler Program is your licence fees at work!

16.01.2022 Do The Right Thing At Sydney’s Walsh Bay! If you enjoy fishing at the iconic Walsh Bay piers in Sydney Harbour, then DPI needs your help to ensure continued acc...ess to this highly popular and productive shared location. Unfortunately, a minority of irresponsible fishers are continuing to cause major problems at Walsh Bay by constantly leaving rubbish, making too much noise and disrespecting local office workers and residents. We know most anglers fishing the piers do so responsibly, and we understand that the construction work currently underway at Walsh Bay has made things difficult, however that is no excuse for a few individuals to keep doing the wrong thing. Access to Walsh Bay is way too good to lose, which is why are doing all we can to maintain your fishing access to these great locations by organising police and fisheries patrols, extra cleaning and advisory visits to promote responsible fishing. But we need YOUR help as well. Positive things you can do if you're out at Walsh Bay this weekend include always fishing responsibly, picking up all rubbish (even if it’s not yours), keeping the noise down (especially at night) and treating other users (including people who work in nearby offices, restaurants and cafes) with respect and courtesy. If you see people doing the wrong thing, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Meantime, stay tuned for more info on initiatives DPI is developing to help manage these locations as we move into the busy summer period. We all need to work together to do the right thing and preserve access to the amazing fishing locations. Thanks in advance for your help and support.

15.01.2022 NSW RecFisher October 2020 - https://mailchi.mp/rfansw/sep-390192

13.01.2022 Murray Cod Season opens tomorrow! Get your swimbaits and XOS spinnerbaits ready for the opening of the Murray cod fishing season, tomorrow, Tuesday, 1 December,... following the annual three-month breeding closure. One of our most iconic sportfish, Murray cod are Australia’s largest freshwater species, growing to 1.8m in length and more than 100kg in weight. In NSW, Murray cod are subject to a daily bag limit of two person per day with a total possession limit of four from either rivers or dams. The minimum legal length for Murray cod is 55cm with a maximum size of 75cm. More info on rules and regs for Murray cod is available via the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide at https://bit.ly/3fDF2Do. Print copies of the Guide are available from DPI offices and most places where NSW recreational fishing licences are sold.

13.01.2022 A rock fisher at Long Reef on Sydney's Northern Beaches has been recovered from the water after a nearby boater spotted him falling into the water this morning. We are hoping that to obtain some more details from those involved. If you can assist with our inquires then please direct message or email the RFA on [email protected] .

13.01.2022 Apply Now For Trust Grants To Make Fishing Better! Got an idea to improve the fishing in your local area? Now’s the time to turn your ideas into reality! The NS...W Recreational Fishing Trust Grants are now open, meaning you can apply for funding for projects and initiatives. These grants are open to anyone, including fishing clubs and organisations, universities, councils, community groups and individuals. The good news is it’s easy to apply! Any idea which aims to benefit recreational fishing in NSW is worth considering. If you’d like to discuss your ideas - or even if you don’t know where to start - just call us on (02) 4916 3835 or email [email protected]. We will be happy to help!. Guidelines and the application form can be found at https://bit.ly/3mPMwq4. The friendly team here at NSW DPI Fisheries can also work with you to help develop your application, if needed. Types of community projects that have been funded in previous years include fishing platforms, fish cleaning tables, kayak launching platforms, access upgrades, safety infrastructure and a range of other angling facilities. Other projects include fishing workshops and clinics including teaching kids and adults how to fish, fishing for therapy, schools fishing education, projects to increase participation in recreational fishing and other fishing club events to promote fishing. Don’t delay - the closing date for funding applications is 30 October, 2020. We look forward to working with you to make fishing better! This is your fishing licence at work.

12.01.2022 Keep an eye out and navigate with care as its looking like we will get new ferry wharves in Botany Bay. The RFA will be out and about at La Perouse over the weekend doing what it does best, consulting with anglers and asking will they use a new wharf instead of fishing off the rocks neaby. Keep an eye out and say hello

12.01.2022 The fish hatchery team at DPI’s Port Stephens Fisheries Institute have been busy breeding kingfish. It’s amazing to think these tiny larvae grow up to be drag-scorching hoodlums! This is another great example of your fishing fees at work!

11.01.2022 A little bit of insight into New Zealand fisheries management.

11.01.2022 The Recreational Fishing Alliance meet this morning with representatives from NSW Maritime Property, Sydney Property ManageMeant, NSW Fisheries, Walsh Bay Pier 8/9 Landlords and Tenant representatives. A number of serious matters were shared along with several specific instances of anti social behaviour highlighted. Some old and some new issues in relation to how and where people are fishing around Piers 8 & 9 and the Hickson Road public though a fare, which can get very busy... with foot traffic and patrons. Many fishers use this very popular location because of its easy accessibility, and fishyness 24/7/365 days a year. Fishers are asked to please - keep the area clean and always use the bins provided, - always use the public toilet facilities when they are open, - be respectful of your catch, always release any fish to live another day, or despatch your catch quickly and clean up any fish mess immediately afterwards, and - respect your fellow fishers, Precinct Staff, the Piers tenants and residents, and all the public that use this great location. As we all know, our fishing freedom to dangle a line is being brought into disrepute, by a few recreational fishers, and the BIGGEST threat to US ALL, is losing our fishing access around Walsh Bay is a serious matter. So please listen to what Al has to say and tell your fishin mates that we all need to try a little harder. #RFANSW, #NSWDPIFISHERIES, #NSWMARITIME, #SAFEFISHING, #TOGOODTOLOOSE, #ONCEITSGONEWEWILLNEVERGETITBACK! https://www.facebook.com/RFANSW/videos/1817818581581974/

11.01.2022 How safe is your catch of the day, or any NSW Commercially taken wild caught seafood, when it comes from our Inland Waterways, Estuaries, Coastal Embayments and Oceans? Would you like to see the Goverment Introduce a Program like 'Beach Watch' that monitors beach and harbour water quality and provides advice/warnings if its safe or not to enter the water at many coastal beaches across NSW, for our States Seafood? Jervis Bay locals have been told not to eat seafood caught fro...m some waterways around Jervis Bay (ABC Illawarra: Jessica Clifford). Just as NSW Health, NSW Food Authority and NSWDPI Fisheries have provide health warnings, dietary advice and signage at many popular fishing spots across NSW, about consuming fish taken from so many NSW Waters. The Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW has been asking this question for many years now, and all we get back is Government waffle and a round of Agency 'point the finger ask them'! From every coastal offshore Sewage Treatment Outfalls STO's, to those that send their treated water down a coastal creek or esturay, to the deep ocean outfalls that send much of Sydney's treated slurry 3-4 kms offshore, to all those STO's on our inland waterways, what is the real cumulative impact of this 'out of sight out of mind' water quality management ????? Then we have the petrochemical runoff load and pollution from all our roads particularly during storms left by cars, trucks, buses, trains, planes and industrial plants, to the Dioxin Impacts across Sydney Harbour from Western Sydney Industries, to the ever present threat of Raw Sewage runoff during heavy rain from Sydney Water or Local Council sewage system failures, heavy metal contamination from sewage and industries, to the latest big scary unknown 'PFAS Contamination Zones' located around many of our Airports and Defence Force Facilities which has leached into the underground water tables and local waterways via stormwater drains. Check this story out from the ABC, maybe this is one answer to right the wrongs of the past! https://www.abc.net.au//new-technology-could-remo/12852508

10.01.2022 https://mailchi.mp//newscast-recreational-fisheries-news-o

10.01.2022 NSW Maritime - Expired Marine Flare Disposal 2020/21 The Expired Marine Flares Collection Program for the 2020/21 boating season will start on the 20th November and run to the 18th April 2021 Covid-19 style at 46 locations along the coast from Tweed Heads to Eden. There will be 3, 10 day periods, November, January 2021 and April 2020, where boaters will be able to drop-off their life expired flares, unfortunately some of these pick up dates will be weekdays, Thursday, Friday,... Saturday and Sundays. Dates and collection locations can be viewed in the table on the Maritime web site. https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au//safety-equ/flare-disposal.html

09.01.2022 A tough crackdown on boating safety breaches in NSW will start from this weekend to help save lives on the water. Fines will be handed out by NSW Maritime Boati...ng Safety Officers and Marine Area Command - NSW Police Force for failing to wear or carry lifejackets, speeding, unsafe towing activities and personal watercraft infringements. Know the rules, you're responsible #WearALifejacket

09.01.2022 The popular Rock Fishing spot known as Hill 60 at Port Kembka claims another life, and has another rock fisher in hospital in a critical condition. At around 7pm this evening a call came in to 000 with first responders on scene in minutes trying to locate two fishers reported washed in by a large set of waves. Police Officers from Lake Illawarra Police District along with the Toll Rescue Helicopter crew, Surf Lifesaving IRB crew, and Highway Patrol attended the scene and bega...n searching for the men. A Highway Patrol officer entered the sea with a Angel Ring (flotation device) and swam out to the men, along with a member of the public. Two men and the officer were retrieved from the water by the IRB crew, who transported them to Port Kembla beach. CPR was initiated on one of the men; however, he died at the scene. The police officer and the second fisherman were not injured. The Toll Helicopter crew winched the third man to safety; he has now been transported to Wollongong Hospital where he is reported to be in a critical condition. Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of the rock fisher who lost their life, and we hope for a full and speedy recovery for the fisher in hospital. To all the First Responders involved a big thank for all the effort that was deployed to cover the situation. Rock fishers should be aware and know that, #NOFISHISWORTHYOURLIFE, #DONTPUTYOURLIFEONTHELINE. For more Rock Fishing Safety messages and tips visit WWW.SAFEFISHING.COM.AU or WWW.WATERSAFETY.NSW.GOV.AU .

09.01.2022 From AMSA, always erring on being overly safe when boating can certainly pay off, particularly when fishing remote areas like in the Northern Territory. Make sure you correctly register all your safety gear like EPIRBS, and identify your fishing gear just in case something happens, or someone locates it and wants to return it. These guys will vouch for that.

08.01.2022 20 knot southerlies in Sydney, building seas and The Piers at Walsh Bay all crawling with keen fishos fishing safely. Spots are filling up fast, grab your rod, buy that new lure, and get down here fast and enjoy the day out.

08.01.2022 You want to be an illegal fisher then be warned, every recreational fisher, commercial fisher and any member of the public if they see or witness any suspicious fishing activity can call the Fish Watch Hotline on 1800 043 536, go online via the NSW FishSmart App, or #NSWDPIFISHERIES website and file a report 24/7/365 days a year. Looks like the Victorian Fisheries Officers are getting serious to about illegal fishing, and so they should!

07.01.2022 Gulf St Vincent snapper stocks decline further The necessity of the Marshall Liberal Government’s bold decision to close the snapper fishery has been reinforced... by new science which shows snapper populations in Gulf St Vincent have fallen to new lows. The most recent South Australian Research and Development Institute scientific assessments show snapper stocks remain ‘depleted’ in Spencer Gulf and West Coast waters and has regressed from ‘depleting’ to ‘depleted’ in Gulf St Vincent. Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said the latest snapper stock assessment highlighted the need to take action to protect the iconic species. The Marshall Liberal Government has invested $1 million in vital research into the snapper stocks to better inform our decision making and unfortunately the most recent stock assessment report has shown a further decline in numbers across South Australian waters, said Minister Basham. This clearly shows that closing those fisheries was the right thing to do to allow stocks to recover. The science and anecdotal evidence from fishers all point to critically low snapper numbers in our gulfs and prompted the need for strong action to be taken to protect the fishery into the future. Unfortunately the former Labor Government cut snapper research funding and failed to take action to protect this iconic species. The State Government has also released the latest round of information under the $24.5 million Marine Scalefish Fishery reform, providing fishers with details of the total allowable commercial catch limits for whiting, garfish and squid from 1 July next year. This latest information will help commercial fishers decide whether they should stay in the fishery and invest into the future, or exit the industry and participate in the voluntary licence surrender program, said Minister Basham. We have already seen 57 fishers decide to leave the industry which means there’s less than 100 voluntary licence surrenders remaining before applications close on 13 November 2020. Our historic $24.5 million Marine Scalefish Fishery reform package is aimed at improving the profitability of seafood businesses and improving the long-term sustainability of fish stocks in South Australia. Minister Basham said the further drop in snapper populations is not unexpected given scientific sampling was undertaken soon after the fishing closure was implemented. The State Government will undertake scientific sampling over Autumn 2021 to see if there is any evidence of a successful spawning pulse after the first full year of the fishing closure, said Minister Basham. Snapper is a long lived, slow growing species and takes approximately four years to grow to legal size. There is a total closure on snapper fishing for the Spencer Gulf, West Coast and Gulf St Vincent until 31 January 2023, however controlled fishing is permitted in the South East waters during the non-spawning period between 1 February and 31 October each year. Minister Basham said the Snapper Management Advisory Committee reviewed and recommended catch limits for priority species under the new Marine Scalefish Fishery arrangements being implemented from 1 July 2021. Two separate sets of snapper catch limits were determined for South East waters, for the period 1 February 2021 to 30 June 2021 and from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022. South East snapper catch limits for 2021 are consistent with recent years but less than the level set for 2020, and are based on the current best available scientific data, said Minister Basham. Recommended management arrangements for recreational and charter boat fishing in the South East snapper fishery in 2021 will be finalised at the next meeting of the Snapper Management Advisory Committee and announced in November. Snapper catch limits for South East waters - 1 February 2021 to 30 June 2021 A Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of 26,666 kilograms. A Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) of 21,600 kilograms. A Total Allowable Recreational Catch (TARC) of 4,800 kilograms (Charter Boat Fishery: 2,667 kilograms, Recreational fishers: 2,133 kilograms). A Chair’s Summary of the Snapper Management Advisory Committee and the latest snapper stock assessment report are available in full on the Department of Primary Industries and Regions website via www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishingreform

07.01.2022 WOW, how good are these dolphins at catching a feed of salmon. The Harbour and eastern suburbs of Sydney have played host to the salmon for months now. Nature at its best.

06.01.2022 Does anyone care about the fish? The RFA was dismayed to see that no money was allocated to the fish or the water they live in after Sydney Water spilled and then washed 64,000 litres of raw sewage into the Lane Cove River. Sydney Water received a $145,000 fine of which $127,000 went to National Parks and Wildlife Services for Bush Regeneration Services. Not one cent to the help the fish or the waterway. The RFA is asking was Fisheries aware and why did no-one stand up for th...e fish and how come NPWS gets all the money? Surely Adam Marshall MP and Matt Kean MP can see that the impacts have all be borne by the waterway and yet it seems sanctioned dumping into our waterways is acceptable these days by the most obvious dereliction of their duty to the fish and the waterway. How about an explanation on why the fish and fisherman have to stomach this continued shi#ting on the environment without any compensation and are faced with more lock outs and loss of access as part of managing our impacts as fishers in NSW and yet the sh#t continues to be dumped every day into our waterways. Stay tuned for more updates. RFA of NSW See more

06.01.2022 Book A Fishing Charter For School Holiday Family Fun! The school holidays start next week and are a perfect time to head to your favourite family holiday spot a...long the NSW coast. The NSW charter fishing fleet has you covered for a fun family fishing adventure, either offshore or estuary-based. All NSW licenced charter fishing boats continue to operate under strict safety protocols, including for COVID. Check out DPI’s "Go Charter Fishing In NSW" webpage at https://bit.ly/3j1sJll for more details, including a handy function to select and book your preferred charter fishing operation!

06.01.2022 https://www.abc.net.au//salmon-escaped-from-fish-/12914804

05.01.2022 . https://www.facebook.com/WINNewsIllawarra/videos/1047108575739751/

05.01.2022 Changes to recreational Cockle harvesting ============================ The NSW Government has reduced the possession limit of Cockles from 50 to 20 per person, effective from 14 October 2020. This change has been implemented following consultation with and support from the NSW Recreational Fishing Advisory Council. The change is to ensure a balance between managing Cockle numbers into the future while still providing a sustainable catch for recreational fishers.... The rules now allow for a combined recreational possession limit of 50 Cockles, Mussels and Pipis, of which only 20 can now be Cockles. The new possession limit applies per person across the whole State. The new rules have been implemented through the Fisheries Management (Possession Limit) (Estuary Cockles) Order 2020, which was issued under Sections 227 and 228 of the Fisheries Management 1994 and published in the NSW Government Gazette. Information on legal fishing and marine invertebrate collecting is available through the free FishSmart NSW App. Please report suspected illegal fishing activity by calling 1800 043 536 or report online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishi/compliance/report-illegal-activity.

05.01.2022 What a great outcome for the fish that do and will live in this waterway. Well done to all involved, all that is needed now is to resolve how we can ensure there is sufficent water in such inland waterways so the aquatic ecosystem survives, like it has through so many past serve droughts.

02.01.2022 Changes to Recreational Cockle Harvesting The NSW Government has reduced the possession limit of Cockles from 50 to 20 per person, effective from 14 October 20...20. This change has been implemented following consultation with and support from the NSW Recreational Fishing Advisory Council. The change is to ensure a balance between managing Cockle numbers into the future while still providing a sustainable catch for recreational fishers. The rules now allow for a combined recreational possession limit of 50 Cockles, Mussels and Pipis, of which only 20 can now be Cockles. The new possession limit applies per person across the whole State. The new rules have been implemented through the Fisheries Management (Possession Limit) (Estuary Cockles) Order 2020, which was issued under Sections 227 and 228 of the Fisheries Management 1994 and published in the NSW Government Gazette. Information on legal fishing and marine invertebrate collecting is available through the free FishSmart NSW App. Please report suspected illegal fishing activity by calling 1800 043 536 or report online at https://bit.ly/3nQH4Uo.

02.01.2022 The 2020 Gone Fishing Day app is ready to download for Apple iOS users! Don't worry Android users we have you covered too Apple users here is the iOS link in t...he Apple app store. https://apps.apple.com/au/app/id1534191123 Android users, we are waiting for our Google approved version of the app to be dropped into the Google Play store. However in the meantime if you would like to download the Android version to your phone here is a link to our short tutorial downloading it directly from the Gone Fishing Day server. https://tmftournaments.com/gone-fishing-day-android-downlo/ It only takes an extra 10 seconds longer than usual. Just read the short instructions and pictures in the tutorial and scroll to the bottom and select the download button to begin the installation process. Otherwise sit tight and wait for it to drop into the Play Store. We can't wait for this Sunday and we know you can't too. Download the app and register so you are ready for 2020 Gone Fishing Day, 18th October!

02.01.2022 DPI Livestreaming Event To Unveil Mulloway Mysteries! Make sure you’re tuned into the DPI Fisheries Facebook page from 7pm this Thursday, 17 September for Episo...de II of "The Fishing Stream"! Hosted by fishing legend Steve Starlo Starling, the event will be based at the Batemans Bay BCF store and will deliver info and responsible fishing advice on one of our most popular sport and table fish, the mighty mulloway! The evening will kick off with Starlo discussing mulloway research data and C&R techniques with DPI Senior Fisheries Manager Phil Bolton. Next up we’ll cover tips and techniques with DPI Fisheries Manager and mulloway fishing expert Chris Cleaver. And we’ll wrap things up with Starlo talking mulloway lure trends with BCF’s Adam Hughes. We’ll have stacks of great prizes up for grabs including a fantastic Raymarine Element sounder/GPS, Penn fishing outfits and a swag of proven mulloway lures from Berkley, Halco and Atomic. DPI’s The Fishing Stream is designed to provide NSW anglers with useful and relevant info about key species as well as promoting responsible and enjoyable recreational fishing and supporting the local fishing tackle sector. Stay tuned for more info Meantime, make sure you tune in at 7pm this Thursday for expert tips and the chance to score cool prizes. This event is another great example of your fishing fees at work! BCF - Boating, Camping, Fishing Australian Fishing Trade Association PENN Fishing Berkley Fishing Raymarine

01.01.2022 Hazardous Surf Warning for New South Wales from Sunday Midnight 27th September 2020 unti Friday 2nd October 2020 until midnight for the following Coastal Areas - Byron Coast, Coffs Coast, Macquarie Coast and Hunter Coast BOM AM UPDATE Issued at 3:35 am EST on Friday 2nd October 2020 for the period until midnight EST Friday 2nd October 2020....Continue reading