The second annual coral reef fin fish closure starts in Queensland today.
It applies to commercial and recreational fishers in waters from the tip of Cape York to Bundaberg and runs until next Tuesday.
Affected species groups include cod, grouper, coral trout, emperor and parrotfish.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) patrol officers conducted 257 inspections in Coral Reef Fin Fish Waters during October’s closure and found 95 per cent of fishers inspected were doing the right thing.
Unfortunately, eight Fisheries Infringement Notices totalling $619 and a further five caution notices were issued.
The closure period aligns with the new moon, when coral reef fin fish species such as emperor, cod, and coral trout aggregate to spawn.
Closure dates through to 2028 are listed on the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website, so anglers can plan ahead.
A list of coral reef fin fish can be found under Possession Limits for Tidal Waters in the QLD Fishing 2.0 app, which has more than 100,000 users, or on the Fisheries Queensland website.
Minister Mark Furner says closed seasons are vital for ensuring fish stocks remain plentiful.
“Not only for Queensland’s valuable commercial fishing industry, but also for future recreational anglers to enjoy.
“October and November have been shown scientifically to be the most effective months for closures to protect coral reef fin fish.
“I thank fishers for their efforts to follow the rules and I hope you enjoy your time on the water.”
Affected species groups include:
Cod and grouper
Coral trout
Emperor
Fusilier
Parrotfish
Surgeonfish
Sweetlip
Tropical snapper and sea perch
Wrasse
