Murray crayfish open for fishing from May 1

Fishers looking to catch Murray crayfish this year are reminded to ensure their NSW fishing licence is current and they know the rules, as the open season for the native species gets underway on Tuesday, May 1.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), Director Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said there are a number of rules in place to protect the species that are mainly found in the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Edward Rivers.

“The annual Murray crayfish season is limited to four months of the year, May to August, to avoid the over-fishing of this valued native species,” Mr Tritton said.

“Murray crayfish are very slow growing and are subject to environmental stresses such as black water events and land use practices.

“It is important that anglers follow the rules to ensure the sustainability of Murray crayfish into the future.

“A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required for all types of fishing in NSW, including Murray crayfish, and there are bag and size limits in place.

“Crayfish measuring devices and advisory material are freely available from NSW DPI fisheries offices and most tackle outlets to assist fishers to understand and adhere to the rules.

“Our fisheries officers will be out in force during the season to ensure the rules are being followed.”

Mr Tritton said that NSW DPI continues to review and research the Murray crayfish population and related fishing rules.

“NSW DPI is currently undertaking scientific surveys to assess the status of the Murray crayfish population and fishery in NSW,” he said.

“There will also be consultation with recreational fishers on possible changes to the rules as part of the upcoming review of bag and size limits.

” Fishers are reminded that it is illegal to use any nets, except a landing net as an ancillary to a rod or line, above Lake Hume in the upper Murray River from its junction with, and including, Seven Mile Creek at Talmalmo.

The main Murray crayfish rules are:

• A daily bag limit of five applies with a total possession limit of 10, if fishing over numerous days.
• Must have a carapace (head) length of at least nine centimetres (measured from the rear of eye socket to centre rear of carapace), but only one crayfish greater than 12 centimetres may be kept.
• They can only be taken during the months of May, June, July and August.
• A ban applies to taking Murray crayfish in trout waters and Blowering Dam.
• Any female crayfish taken that are carrying eggs must be returned to the water immediately.
• Removing claws/head/tail in, on or adjacent to water is illegal.
• Five hoop nets per person permitted with letters ‘HN’ and user’s name and address on the float.

NSW Recreational fishing licences are available at many bait and tackle shops, some Kmart stores or by calling
1300 369 365 or online at www.licence.nsw.gov.au. For more information on Murray crayfish visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

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