Marron fishers warned to do the right thing

More than 10,000 recreational marron fishing licences have been issued in the lead-up to this year’s season, which starts at noon on January 8.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development freshwater fisheries management officer Chris Marsh said the limited four-week season was one of the most carefully managed recreational fishing seasons in Australia.

“Large numbers of marron fishers are expected at popular camping locations on the major freshwater rivers and irrigation dams in the South West,” Mr Marsh said.

“Our department has a range of measures to ensure that fishing for freshwater crustacean species is managed sustainably.”

He said the campaign Don’t Get Caught in a Trap would still be actively promoted this year.

“The campaign will help with community education through public presentations and community meetings, displays of information, brochures, signs and banners at fishing tackle shops and regional government offices,” he said.

Department compliance manager Richard Petty said fisheries officers had already detected some illegal marron fishing on their night patrols.

“Fisheries and marine education officers will be out in the field inspecting catches of marron, fishing gear and licences,” he said.

“The public are encouraged to report any suspicious fishing activity by calling FishWatch on 1800 815 507.”

The season will end on February 5 at noon, when recreational marron fishing will become illegal again until 2020.