Yes, it’s time to get those fishing rods and your waders out – the eagerly awaited Murray Cod fishing season reopens on Sunday, following the annual three-month breeding closure.
The closure, which runs from September 1 through to November 30, applies to all inland waters except for Blowering Dam and Copeton Dam, and is a key conservation measure designed to safeguard Murray Cod during their vulnerable spawning period.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Acting Executive Director Fisheries Peter Turnell, told the Times anglers across NSW are now invited to return to the water from Sunday to fish for the iconic native species.
“The seasonal closure, implemented nearly two decades ago, along with successful breeding and stocking initiatives, has played a crucial role in improving the health of Murray Cod populations across NSW’s lakes and rivers,” Mr Turnell says.
“In the 2023–24 stocking season alone, more than 450,000 Murray Cod were released into waterways across inland NSW, with another bumper production season at our Narrandera Fisheries Centre native fish hatchery already underway.”
Mr Turnell said the reopening of the Murray Cod fishing season was a great opportunity for anglers to target this native sportfish, though he stressed it is important to follow the regulations designed to protect the species.
“We encourage all fishers targeting Murray Cod to adhere to the legal bag and size limits along with all other fishing rules that apply,” he said.
“Protecting iconic native species like Murray Cod is crucial for ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy them.
“A daily bag limit of two Murray Cod per person and a total possession limit of four applies when fishing in any inland waters,” said Mr Turnell.
“Fishers are required to carefully release Murray Cod which are smaller than 55cm, or bigger than 75cm back into the water.”
The public is also urged to report any suspected illegal fishing activity. Reports can be made to the Fishers Watch phone line at 1800 043 536 or via the online report form.
The NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide provides detailed information on the rules, regulations, and best practices for fishing in NSW and is available on the DPIRD website, from NSW DPIRD Fisheries offices, and at most places where NSW recreational fishing licences are sold.
