Fisheries managers and researchers will hold a public briefing in Bunbury, next Tuesday (16 October), to present important research on ‘at risk’ offshore fish species and reasons why we need a new approach to manage recreational catches for long-term sustainability.
New research shows key demersal scalefish (the long-lived and slow growing species dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper) are being overfished in the West Coast Bioregion – which extends from just north of Kalbarri to Black Point east of Augusta.
Department of Fisheries South West Bioregion Manager Ian Curnow said the research showed the number of older fish in dhufish and snapper populations had fallen and poor recruitment, during the past decade, had led to fewer juveniles entering the fishery.
“We are hoping that fishers and other community members will take advantage of this public briefing, so they can be well informed on the issues and encouraged to make their submissions during the current consultation period,” Mr Curnow said.
“All recreational fishers and other interested community members are encouraged to provide their ideas on management measures they consider would ensure the long-term sustainability of WA’s dhuies, baldies and pink snapper.
“No decisions on the long term management strategies to ensure sustainability of the ‘at risk’ species will be made by Fisheries Minister Jon Ford, until he has had the opportunity to review the submissions from fishers and the general public.”
Mr Curnow said, following the review of submissions, another discussion paper would be released early next year, detailing specific proposals for the way forward and providing a further opportunity for anglers and the community to comment.
“Options raised for consideration in Fisheries Management Paper No.225 – Managing the recreational catch of demersal scalefish on the West Coast are only related to the species under pressure – so they do not impact on beach fishing or inshore species,” he said.
“The current management paper is available on the Department of Fisheries’ website and it can be posted out. People who want a hard copy of the document should phone 9482 7333.
“A detailed research report and other information on the ‘at risk’ species, plus details on how to make a submission, are also online at www.fish.wa.gov.au.
