Fishing is one of the most significant causes in the decrease of marine life populations.

Casting a line is not essentially bad for the waterways until the rate of catching becomes faster than stocks can replenish, then we tread into the major risk of overfishing.

Practising sustainable fishing guarantees there will be populations of ocean and freshwater wildlife in the future, but as a community what are the best ways to implement sustainable fishing habits to take the pressure off our local and global fisheries?

Marine biologist Phil Laycock will be hosting Fishing for the Future on Wednesday, 17 February – a community workshop to bring local fishers together to discuss the importance of healthy fish stocks and local actions.

The workshop marks the first initiative in the $15,000 grant received through the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation to promote sustainable fishing practices.

The initiative is a project driven by the Douglas Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) and Douglas Shire Council.

The Douglas Shire is highly regarded as an angler’s paradise – the region is flowing with spots to cast a line in a mixture of unspoiled freshwater, estuarine and saltwater hangouts that are home to an amazing diversity of fish species all year round for both land and water-based casting.

Mr Laycock said he has worked as a fishing guide in the Northern Territory and been on deck chasing Black Marlins, but my best fishing experiences have been in the Douglas Shire.

“I think it’s the diversity of fishing experiences that makes it one of the best places I have fished in Australia – it is quite special, but it could be even better.

“If the community can work together towards a common interest of a sustainable fishing future, fishers, business, industry and the environment all stand to benefit from the improved fishing experiences this can create,” he said.

Every angler should be hooked into sustainable fishing – there is no escaping the fact that what you do has an impact on what you enjoy.

The community workshop will lure in many passionate anglers and fishing charter companies that approach their businesses with response practices to further develop consistent sustainable methods. 

Ashleigh Ernest owner of Out n About Sport Fishing, who regards sustainable fishing as a top priority said whether you are fishing for sport, leisure, or food, it is so important for every angler to be really mindful of not taking more than you need and having a minimal impact on the environment you are fishing in.

“There are some very simple practices to limit the harm on not just the fish themselves but also their environment.

“Using appropriate gear for the species you are targeting and aiming to reduce fish handling time and the time the fish spends out of the water is a great start.

“Just genuinely respecting your catch whether you are catching and releasing or intending to put it on the table is so important.

“Fishing is a great sport that I hope generations to come can enjoy,” said Ms Ernest.

WORKSHOP DETAILS:

• Wednesday 17 February 2021
• 5pm-8pm
• Port Douglas Community Hall, Cnr. Mowbray and Muldo Streets, Port Douglas, or via online access.
• Registration Essential via Council website.