All NSW waters will be closed to fishing for Murray crayfish from this Sunday, 1 September, as the annual Southern NSW season comes to a close.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries Manager Cameron Westaway said it is time to give the iconic Murray Crayfish a rest, following a three month season along the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers.
"The Murray Crayfish fishery in NSW is closed all year as they are a vulnerable species, except in specified waters of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers during June, July and August," Mr Westaway said.
"An open season acknowledges the community's desire for the fishery to continue, while also providing protection at other times when crayfish are normally inactive under natural conditions.
"The open season will officially close Sunday, September 1, so anglers must not take any Murray Crayfish from NSW waters at all.
"In addition, the taking of berried females and the removal of heads, tails or claws of Murray Crayfish, in, on or adjacent to waters, is prohibited. They must be returned to the water immediately without harm."
Information on freshwater fishing rules can be found in the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide from DPI Fisheries offices, at fishing licence agents and bait and tackle shops, and online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing.
"Fishing laws are designed to protect, conserve and share our fisheries resources for all legitimate users and our future generations," Mr Westaway said.
People can report suspected illegal fishing to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or report via the FishSmart app.
