Sept2012_FISHING

If in doubt, throw it out
More than $13,000 worth of fines were recently issued to recreational fishers for crabbing offences in two separate cases in south east Queensland.

All female mud crabs have been protected in Queensland since 1914, and the current size limit for male mud crabs has been in force since 1957.
Ensure you have a crab gauge to measure male crabs to ensure they are legal size, and release any female or undersize crabs immediately to the water before proceeding to check your next pot or dilly.  The recreational size limit for mud crabs is 15cm across the carapace with a bag limit of 10 per person.
If you are fishing or crabbing and are unsure of the identity, size or bag limit, a good general rule to follow is ‘if in doubt, throw it out’.  It is better than risking a fine.
The Queensland Recreational Boating and Fishing Guide contains all the fishing rules and is readily available online at www.fisheries.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 25 23.
To report suspected illegal fishing, call the Fishwatch Hotline on 1800 017 116.
 Latest fisheries information can also be found on the Fisheries Queensland website or via Twitter – www.twitter.com/fisheriesqld or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fisheriesqueensland