More chances to bag a Spanish mackerel after law changes
Queensland fishing
The Spanish mackerel recreational boat limit has been raised in Queensland waters to four fish per boat from two fish.
And for commercial fishers, the annual catch limit has increased to 250 tonnes per year from 165 tonnes.
The State Government Primary Industries Department announced the change yesterday, saying stock assessments had found the “population is likely to have increased to 34 per cent of un-fished biomass, which allows for increased fishing”.
Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett welcomed the changes.
“We estimate this increase to the annual commercial catch limit will boost the Queensland economy by approximately $3.5 million in gross value of production,” Mr Perrett said.
“That means more jobs for Queenslanders and more Spanish mack on plates around the state.”
The Government flagged the increase in August, with Mr Perrett saying at the time the proposed changes struck a balance between allowing fishers and seafood eaters to enjoy Spanish mackerel while continuing to protect the fishery for future generations.
But conservation group the Australian Marine Conservation Society has condemned the changes as “short-sighted” and “risky”.
Spanish mackerel is a large fish species found from Cape York Peninsula to Newcastle in NSW, and can live for up to 26 years and weigh up to 30kg.
The fish are a popular target for anglers in Port Douglas, and are most prevalent from July to October.
