The Minns Labor Government has today announced a significant milestone in recreational fishing by releasing the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 for consultation and opening Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body.
Together, the draft Action Plan and the establishment of the peak body will lay the foundation for a vibrant and representative recreational fishing sector in NSW.
The Minns Government is committed to giving the wide and varied group of recreational fishers a voice to government, healthier waterways, and more opportunities to enjoy the state's salt and freshwater landscapes and fishing opportunities.
The draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 aims to deliver greater participation in fishing, promote environmental stewardship of our waterways, promote the benefits of fishing to wellbeing and social lifestyles, and fast track the recovery of depleted species.
Recreational fishing is seeing a rise of interest among young people as demonstrated by the significant content about the activity in social media and the engagement for the plan and the EOI aims to attract the next generation of fishers.
The Government invites feedback and consultation with people across the state to consider the Plan. Some highlights include:
- Boost participation of women and kids, and people with disabilities by 10 percent, with more fishing workshops, promotion, accessible fishing platforms and facilities.
- Make "Gone Fishing Day" a bigger and better event across NSW to celebrate fishing, our iconic coastal and inland locations, and our seafood through deeper and wider partnerships.
- Stock 30 million fish into NSW waterways with improved hatchery infrastructure and focus on sportfish like Mulloway and Dusky Flathead, and iconic natives like Murray Cod.
- Create 50 new fishing sites in regional and metropolitan areas to provide more places for people to fish by improving access, infrastructure and habitat.
- Boost sustainable fishing through responsible practices, reducing wildlife impacts and waste, and empower fishers to be citizen stewards of fisheries and aquatic environments.
Public consultation on the draft action plan is now open and will close on 24 April 2026 giving people the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to the final plan.
To view the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 and provide feedback, head to -- www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/rec-fishing-ap
The Government is also opening Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body comprising of a chair and up to nine other board members, made up of dedicated recreational fishers, professionals and talented individuals.
