Know the limits if you’ve got snapper in your sights

by Kristal Brown Qld Fisheries on 17 Jul 2012 With snapper season upon us, recreational fishers looking to snap up catches of the popular species are reminded that new bag and size limits are in place.

Fisheries Queensland recreational fishing manager Tony Ham said with good catches being reported and expected along the southeast Queensland coast up to Mackay, fishers were urged to follow the rules or risk being fined.

'New rules for snapper came into effect last September,' he said. 'The bag limit on snapper is now four per person, with one fish allowed over 70cm in length.

'The minimum size limit for snapper is 35cm, and these rules apply to all recreational fishers, including those fishing from charter boats.'

Mr Ham also reminded fishers of the definition of a bag limit. 'A 'bag' or 'possession' limit refers to the total number of fish an individual can legally take and have in their possession at any one time – it does not apply on a per-day basis,' he said.

'This includes the fish you have caught previously that are in your freezer at home, camp site or in your caravan.'
Snapper (Pagrus auratus) are most prevalent in the southern end of the state but do extend as far north as Mackay. They are a bottom-living fish, at depths of 10-150m.

For photos of adult and juvenile snapper, as well as the size and bag limits of other Queensland species, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au

Call 13 25 23 to order your free 'Recreational Boating and Fishing Guide' or download your copy at the Fisheries Queensland website.