NSW Department of Primary industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is reminding recreational fishers that Murray Cod and Murray Crayfish seasons ended on Sunday, September 1.
NSW DPIRD Program Leader Fishing Stocking and Enhancement, Jim Harnwell said the Murray Cod fishery is subject to a three-month closure every year to protect the number one native sportsfish during their breeding season.
“Murray Cod cannot be taken from inland waters from September 1 to November 30, inclusive, except in Copeton and Blowering dams,” Mr Harnwell said.
“We are able to maintain fishing in Copeton and Blowering dams year-round as NSW DPIRD monitoring has confirmed that almost all fish in those waters are stocked, meaning the breeding season closure would provide negligible benefit to Murray Cod in those dams.
“Murray Cod – Australia’s largest freshwater fish – are a prized target for fishers in NSW’s inland fishery and are native to the Murray-Darling Basin.
“This three-month fishing closure will help ensure future generations can enjoy the thrill of catching a Murray Cod.”
In addition, September 1 marks the start of the closure for Murray Crayfish, which remains in place until June 1, 2025.
“Murray Crayfish can only legally be taken in specified waters of the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers annually from 1 June to 31 August,” Mr Harnwell said.
“The fishery is closed for the remainder of the year, to provide protection for this vulnerable species.
“NSW recreational freshwater fishing laws are designed to protect, conserve and improve our fisheries resources for future generations.
“Murray Crayfish are endemic to the southern tributaries of the Murray-Darling Basin and are the largest freshwater spiny crayfish in NSW, growing up to three kilograms in weight.”
