New size limits to improve Murray cod numbers

by Vic Coalition on 13 Sep 2014 New recreational catch limits for Murray cod in Victorian waters will improve the species’ sustainability and improve fishing opportunities for anglers in the long term.

Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh said recent public consultation had indicated substantial support for the introduction of a 50-70 centimetre slot limit and a reduced bag limit in rivers of one Murray cod per day.

'The current 60-100cm slot limit does not sufficiently protect the older, more valuable breeding Murray cod, which are the future of this iconic species,' Mr Walsh said.

'Scientific modelling by the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) indicates that Murray cod populations would be enhanced under a slot limit regime of 50-70cm.'

Mr Walsh said scientists had also modelled other scenarios including a 60 to 80cm slot limit.

'The results of the modelling indicated that under Victorian conditions, a slot limit of 50-70cm was better for the fish and better for recreational anglers,' Mr Walsh said.

'Compared with current regulations, a 50-70cm slot limit is expected to improve sustainability outcomes by 68 per cent, increase the number of large breeding fish by 147 per cent and increase the availability of fish to catch by 12 per cent.

'The bag limit of two in lakes would remain unchanged because most Murray cod fisheries in Victorian lakes are stocked populations, where angler takings don’t pose a sustainability threat.

'The reduced bag limit in rivers would enable Victorian anglers to take one smaller fish for the table, whilst ensuring all large breeders are returned to the water and contribute to future populations.

'The Coalition Government recognises the social and economic contribution recreational fishing makes to our state and the importance of ensuring it has a long-term sustainable future here in Victoria. We are making this science-based change to ensure Victoria remains a top fishing destination,' Mr Walsh said.

The new Victorian regulations will be introduced by a Fisheries Notice before the opening of the Murray cod season on 1 December 2014.