In this section:

November a ‘no go’ for snapper fishing

Wednesday 21 October, 2009

South Australia’s annual closed season for snapper will again take place this year during the month of November.

The closure will commence from midday on Sunday 1 November and continue through to midday on Monday 30 November for all recreational, commercial and charter fishing sectors.

Fishers are not permitted to target snapper at all during this period and any snapper accidentally caught during the closure must be returned to the water immediately. 

PIRSA Fisheries General Manager Fisheries Management Kelly Crosthwaite said that the annual closure is essential in ensuring the sustainability of the snapper fishery.

“Reducing fishing effort allows the species to reach a larger average weight and age and therefore produce more eggs during its lifetime,” she said.

“Whilst the closure only takes place for one month, this short period allows a proportion of larger, mature fish the freedom to migrate and aggregate in readiness to spawn during the spawning period.
 
“The closure appears to be having a significant positive impact on fish stocks, with scientific research showing better than average recruitment in recent years.”

PIRSA Fisheries Officers will be paying particular attention to snapper fishing hot spots throughout the closure to ensure all fishers comply with the restrictions.

“They (Fisheries Officers) will specifically be on the look out, targeting potential snapper fishers on Monday 30 November prior to the midday opening,” Ms Crosthwaite said.

Seasonal closures prohibiting the taking of snapper from all state waters have been in effect since 2000.

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.