For the first time in over 30 years, recreational fishers are now able to spear fish in specified waters along Adelaide’s coast.
The latest amendments to the Fisheries Management (General) Regulations 2017 under the Fisheries Management Act 2007, which are now in effect, removes the previous single area that provided a blanket prohibition on the use of hand fish spears and spearguns along the metropolitan coast. The new arrangements allow spearfishing to take place in two dedicated areas.
Spearfishing is now allowed within the following two areas – within 100m of the immediate southern side of the Outer Harbor breakwater, and the area of coast between Kingston Park/Marino Rocks and Hallett Cove. However, the prohibition of spearfishing within 100m of any landing, jetty or wharf located in these areas still applies.
Executive Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), Professor Gavin Begg said the removal of the previous ban in two specific areas, followed the outcome of a recent review into spear fishing regulations requested by the Minister’s Recreational Fishing Advisory Council (MRFAC).
“The old ban covered the use of hand fish spears and spearguns to fish along the metropolitan coast from Outer Harbor to Witton Bluff, just past Christies Beach,” he said.
“The new regulations were developed following consultations with relevant stakeholder groups, including the MRFAC, recreational fishing bodies, State Government departments, coastal councils, and other coastal user groups.
“The amendments to the regulations have been developed to ensure spear fishing will be allowed in such a way to make it as safe as possible for all users of the area, including swimmers, snorkelers and divers.
“Spear fishing will be allowed in areas less popular with swimmers, due to the rocky coastline, and fishers will be subject to relevant bag limits.
“We are advising spear fishers to follow the Australian Underwater Federation’s code of practice to ensure they’re being safe and respectful of other water users at all times.”
The Gulf Skindivers Spearfishing Club president, the Australian Underwater Federation SA spear fishing chairperson, and MRFAC member David Scholefield said he was pleased some lesser-used metropolitan coastal areas would be opened for spear fishing.
“Spear fishing is recognised as one of the most sustainable methods of taking seafood. There is close to zero bycatch; no litter and waste because no bait is used, and equipment is not easily lost. Allowing spear fishing in these metropolitan areas makes it more accessible, and will help ensure this healthy, safe way to fish will continued to be enjoyed now and into the future.”
For the latest information on spear fishing areas along the metropolitan Adelaide coastline (including maps) visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing/closures_and_aquatic_reserves/fishing_closures