Berley

Berleying is a method used to attract fish and is generally an accepted fishing practice.  The use of certain berley may attract sharks and has the potential to endanger the lives of swimmers, divers and other water users in the same area.

For this reason, blood, bone, meat, offal or the skin of an animal, including birds, may not be used as berley when fishing in any marine waters of the State.

Fish and fish based products may be used.

When fishing for crabs, fishers are permitted to use fish or fish based products only.  It is illegal to use bone, meat, offal or the skin of an animal including birds as bait in crab nets.

The legislation covering the use of berley has been amended recently.  Here are answers to some frequently asked questions including the rules that apply when using crab nets.