Fisheries Minister Don Punch has approved an increase to the daily bag limit for recreational herring fishing in Western Australia, which comes into effect as of today.
The new rules allow anglers to catch up to 20 herring per day, a significant increase from the previous limit of 12.
Recfishwest requested the increase following last year's herring stock assessment, which indicated that action taken in 2015 to halve total catches had succeeded in rebuilding the stock.
The new limit validates the benefits of scientifically-informed fisheries management and WA's recreational and commercial fishing sectors working together to ensure the long-term sustainability of this important species.
Australian herring is a nearshore finfish found in the South-West of WA and is extremely popular with young fishers. Many recreational fishers will have fond memories of catching their first fish, which for many is a herring.
Ongoing sustainable management will help protect quality recreational fishing experiences and enhance the supply of Australian herring onto the dinner plates of local consumers.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
"With the herring recovery backed by the latest scientific stock assessment, Recfishwest requested the daily herring bag limit increase from 12 to 20. I am very pleased we can make this change, which will enable fishers to catch an ample feed for themselves and their family.
"Both recreational and commercial fishers played an important part in reducing catches to help the herring stock recover. They are now enjoying the benefits of their commitment to the sustainability of the Australian herring resource.
"Good science and sustainable management remain the goal of the McGowan Government to ensure ongoing quality recreational fishing experiences and supply of Australian herring for local consumers, through commercial fishing operations."
