Time to tackle the future
As a person who tries to give back to an activity I love and have been involved with for some time, my ears prick up at the mention of ways others can also get involved in fishing or more importantly, supporting our fisheries.
It’s not all take and there are a few opportunities available where you can give a little back. Firstly, the Minister for Fisheries is calling for members of groups or the public to get involved in RecFac which is the group that assists the Minister in making decisions regarding the future course of our fresh and saltwater fisheries.
The criteria are simple, and here are a few key points.
Ten appointments will be made from the EOI process.
The aim is to have a final committee which comprises: Regional expertise.
At least two members should reside in each of the North West/West Coast, the North East, the East Coast and the South Coasts.
Gear/Fisher expertise: Over half should be recreational rock lobster fishers.
Over half should have an interest in recreational line fishing.
Three should have experience in dive fisheries – scallop, abalone, and spearfishing. One should have an interest in family orientated fishing. One should have an interest in recreational netting. In line with government policies and in respect of maintaining a level of diversity, at least half will be female.
One member should be from a culturally and linguistic diverse community or have relevant expertise.
Other considerations when appointing committee members are an ability to provide strategic input and work constructively and be effective in a committee setting; they should have knowledge, understanding and experience of recreational sea fisheries; and time to attend meetings.
The work program for RecFAC over the next few years includes providing input into: Developing harvest strategies for abalone, rock lobster, calamari and flathead. Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and season date decisions. The implementation and actions associated with the Recreational Sea Fishing Strategy.
The Flathead for the Future Program. Management of emerging species – King George whiting, snapper, yellowtail kingfish. Resource sharing and area management.
Research and stock monitoring needs. Improving stewardship and community engagement.
So, as you can see, there are opportunities for you to get involved and have your say.
To apply, go to https://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/Documents/RecFAC%20EOI%20Form %202021.pdf
Or mail to: Recreational Fisheries Advisory Committee, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, GPO Box 44, Hobart 7001.
Fish are biting just about everywhere it seems with big flathead of all species moving close inshore.
If you are into catch and release, now is the time to do it as the larger inshore flathead are usually there at this time of the year and up to November to breed. For those who like a feed, try to limit your catch of the big ones, for they are the future seeders.
Garfish are about under lights and over weed beds in Georges Bay and respond well to lightly baited pieces of chicken skin or maggots (they love them).
Pound for pound, garfish go off when hooked and a liken them to mini marlin, for they will jump and tail wag trying to get away. On light gear (2kg or less) they are a great species to target.
Next time you are ‘bottom bouncing’ try a berley trail of breadcrumbs and a floated hook, you just might be pleasantly surprised.
Take care.