Easing Fish Catch Limits – A Positive Step for Spencer Gulf
Spencer Gulf fishers can once again target full bag limits for Southern Garfish and Blue Swimmer Crab, following a State Government announcement today.
The easing of restrictions follows the latest scientific review of fish stocks which indicates stocks are performing sustainably in Spencer Gulf.
Point Turton fisherman, Kevin Sweeney, who runs Reel Screamer Charters said while the lift doesn’t dramatically change day-to-day fishing in the Spencer Gulf, it is a positive step by the State Government.
This year’s unprecedented algal bloom had a major impact on Gulf St Vincent, but for much of the Spencer Gulf, which remained clear of Karenia mikimotoi, Kevin says it was fear and misinformation that caused the most damage.
“Hopefully further monitoring and stats will see limits reverted back for King George Whiting as well – they’re the primary species South Australians want to take home,” he said.
While the initial announcement of reduced limits in the untouched Spencer Gulf was a devastating blow for tourism operators, Kevin and his crew have worked quickly to adapt.
“We’ve reduced the time on the water and reduced the price, and our customers still have an amazing opportunity to get out there and catch themselves a feed of fish,” he said.
He said the changes had also pushed the business to target additional species, which has ended up being a bonus for customers.
“Today’s catch included whiting, squid and trevally – all nice edible species. So people are still getting a great experience and heading home with fish.”
And while navigating the algal bloom has been “uncharted waters” for SA, Kevin said the media had played a big part in adding salt to the wound.
“Along the Adelaide coastline, where it was hardest hit around North Haven and St Kilda, media had people fearing it would be a desert forever. But the bloom’s only just left that region, and already the environment is coming back so fast.”
Fisher are encouraged to assist ongoing stock monitoring by reporting their catches through the SA Fishing App.
And before you put your rod in the water, especially in Gulf St Vincent, it might be worth double checking the catch limits. When fishing restrictions were first announced in late October, officials listed King George whiting, garfish, blue swimmer crabs and squid as the species being reduced.
But it appears most species in Gulf St Vincent are now half the previous boat and bag limit.
