Recreational fishers across south-western NSW are counting down to the opening of the 2026 Murray Crayfish season on 1 June, signalling the return of one of the State's most unique freshwater fishing experiences.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Director, Aquaculture and Industry Development Ian Lyall said the annual season provides fishers with a rare opportunity to target one of Australia's largest and most recognisable native crayfish species.
"Murray Crayfish are the second‑largest freshwater crayfish in the world and are native to the Murray and Murrumbidgee river systems and their tributaries across southern NSW," Mr Lyall said.
"Like many long‑lived native species, Murray Crayfish suffered significant declines following European settlement, which is why strict rules around when they can be taken, along with size and bag limits, remain essential to protecting this vulnerable species and supporting its recovery.
"The opening of the Murray Crayfish season is highly anticipated, and we want to ensure fishers follow the rules so this unique fishery can be sustained for future generations," Mr Lyall said.
In NSW, Murray Crayfish may only be taken during June, July and August. During this period, fishing is permitted in the Murray River between Hume Weir and the Newell Highway Road Bridge at Tocumwal, including Lake Mulwala, and in the Murrumbidgee River between the Hume Highway Road Bridge at Gundagai and Berembed Weir, excluding Old Man Creek.
Mr Lyall said DPIRD Fisheries Officers will be patrolling waterways throughout the season to ensure recreational fishers and other water users are complying with the rules, including size, bag and possession limits.
"The daily bag limit for Murray Crayfish is two per person, with a possession limit of four," Mr Lyall said.
"Murray Crayfish must measure between 10 and 12 centimetres, measured from the rear of the eye socket to the centre rear of the carapace (which includes the rib at the rear of the carapace but does not include the fine hairs that protrude from it).
"The department provides free Murray Crayfish measuring devices, which can be used to assist in measuring Murray Crayfish to ensure they are of legal size.
"Recreational fishers may use up to five nets per person to catch Murray Crayfish, including hoop or lift nets, open pyramid lift nets, or a combination of these.
"Each net float must be clearly marked with 'HN' for hoop nets or 'PN' for pyramid nets, along with the user's name, year of birth and postcode.
"It is unlawful to take berried (egg‑carrying) females. It is illegal to remove or possess the heads, tails or claws of crayfish when you are in, on or adjacent to waters, unless the crayfish are being prepared for immediate consumption or bait, or are being cleaned at a designated fish cleaning facility," Mr Lyall said.
Opera house-style yabby traps must not be used.
