New fishery management arrangements for Spanish mackerel will be introduced from October this year in Queensland, helping to restore depleted stocks and protect good jobs in the fishing industry for generations to come.
The changes will mean two three-week closed seasons in waters off the state’s north starting in October 2022, and two three-week closed seasons in southern waters starting in February 2023.
Commercial fishers will have a reduced Total Allowable Catch each year starting next July, while recreational fishing for Spanish mackerel will be permitted the other 46 weeks of the year with a bag limit of one per person or two per boat.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the new arrangements would give certainty to commercial, charter and recreational fisheries while striking a balance between rebuilding stocks and allowing better controlled access for fishers.
“Based on extensive feedback and expert scientific advice, we will use a combination of measures to ensure more fish are left in the water each and every year,” Mr Furner said.