NSW Recreational

SALTWATERFishing Guide 2012

www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au

URBAN

WATER

EARTH

VEGETATION

COLOURBARTHEMED SETS (URBAN, WATER, VEGETATION AND EARTH)

COLOURBARONE-COLOUR (MONOTONE OR BLACK)

URBAN

WATER

EARTH

VEGETATION

COLOURBARTHEMED SETS (URBAN, WATER, VEGETATION AND EARTH)

COLOURBARONE-COLOUR (MONOTONE OR BLACK)

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CONTENTSn NSW Recreational Fishing Fee ..........................................................................................................6-7

n Where do my fishing fees go? ......................................................................................................9-13

n Recreational Fishing Havens ....................................................................................................... 14-16

n Community programs .................................................................................................................... 18-19

n Responsible fishing ........................................................................................................................... 20-29

n Converting fish lengths to weights ........................................................................................ 31-34

n Fishing safely/Safe boating .......................................................................................................... 36-39

n Food safety ............................................................................................................................................. 41-43

n Knots and rigs ...................................................................................................................................... 44-51

n Saltwater fishing rules ..................................................................................................................... 53-58

n How to measure fin fish and invertebrates ...............................................................................61

n Fish identification ............................................................................................................................... 62-63

n Bag limits, size limits and closed seasons for fin fish.................................................... 65-75

n Bag and size limits for saltwater invertebrates ................................................................ 76-79

n Threatened and protected species ......................................................................................... 81-85

n Conserving our biodiversity ........................................................................................................ 86-90

n Tide tables .............................................................................................................................................. 93-99

n Local recreational fishing guides...................................................................................................101

n Fisheries Officers ......................................................................................................................................103

n Contact details ................................................................................................................................104-106

n A diary for your catch records ...............................................................................................107-110

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This NSW Recreational Saltwater Fishing Guide is produced by the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) for and on behalf of the state of New South Wales, PO Box 21 Cronulla NSW2230. It is funded from the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Trust

as part of our commitment to providing recreational fishers with comprehensive, user-friendly information. A freshwater

recreational fishing guide is also available.

gENERAL diScLAiMERThis publication may provide assistance or information but NSW DPI and

its employees do not guarantee the publication is without flaw or is wholly appropriate for any particular purpose and therefore disclaims all liability for any

error, loss or other consequences which may arise from relying on any information in this publication.

This publication is a guide only, it does not replace the Fisheries Management Act 1994 or other acts and statutory rules applying to, or affecting recreational fishing. It is a summary of laws and regulations at the time of publication and cannot be

used as a defence in a court of law.

Recreational fishing regulations may change during the life of this publication. It is the responsibility of fishers to ensure they are acting within the law at all times.

Check regulations with your local NSW DPI fisheries office or www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

AdVERTiSiNg diScLAiMERNSW DPI acknowledges contributions made by private enterprise. Acceptance

of these contributions does not, however endorse or imply endorsement by the department of any product or service offered by the contributors.

Copyright © State of New South Wales through the NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2011.

No material matter in this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by electronic or mechanical

means, photocopying or recording without the written permission of NSW DPI.

Cover image: Garie Beach – fishermen by Graham Grocott

Winner of the RFT and NSW DPI 2011 Recreational Fishing Photo Competition.

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6NSW REcREATioNAL FiShiNg FEE

When do i need to pay?When you are fishing in NSW waters, both fresh and saltwater, you are required by law to carry a receipt showing the payment of the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee. This applies when line fishing (rod or hand line); spear fishing; bait collecting or when collecting invertebrates using methods such as hand gathering, digging, pumping, trapping and prawn netting.

This also applies when in possession of fishing gear in, on or adjacent to waters.

Where do i pay the fee?You can pay at many outlets throughout NSW, such as most fishing tackle shops, caravan parks, local shops, service stations, many Kmart stores, via website www.licence.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 369 365.

how much is the fee?n $6 for 3 days

n $12 for 1 month

n $30 for 1 year

n $75 for 3 years

If you go fishing aboard a charter vessel or with a fishing guide, you may find that your skipper or guide holds an exemption certificate which covers you as well. Always check whether you need to have paid the fee before going fishing.

A fifty per cent concession applies to people who only fish in the tidal waters of the Tweed River and prescribed adjacent beach areas.

how do i obtain a plastic receipt?If you pay for a one year or three year period online, over the phone, at a Touch agent or if you renew your licence using your renewal letter, you will receive a plastic receipt in the post. For all other payment methods you will receive a paper receipt.

interstate and overseas visitors Recreational fishing licences issued by other states, territories or countries are not valid for fishing in NSW waters. All visitors must pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee.

The general NSW Recreational Fishing Fee means those who receive direct benefits from the resource are being asked to make a small contribution to its future.

Exemptions:n Persons under the age of 18.

n An adult assisting persons under the age of 18 to take fish using a single rod per child or to take prawns using a single dip or scoop net per child.

n A person fishing in a private dam with a surface area of two hectares or less.

n An Aboriginal person.

The holder of:n A current Pensioner Concession Card

issued by Centrelink.

n A current Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

n A Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Treatment Card endorsed “Totally and Permanently Incapacitated”.

n A Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Treatment Card endorsed “Extreme Disablement Adjustment”.

n A letter from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs stating that you receive a disability pension of 70 percent or higher, or an intermediate pension.

NSW Fishing Fee Receipt

ALL FEES ARE USED TO IMPROVE RECREATIONAL FISHING

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7These exemptions only apply to the primary

card holder. Recreational fishers must have these cards in their possession to be exempt. Please note that seniors cards, health care cards and repatriation health cards do not exempt you from paying the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee.

This information is current at time of printing but fisheries regulations may change. It is the responsibility of fishers to ensure they are acting within the law at all times.

If unsure whether you need to pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee, check our website at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

Replacement fee receiptCost for a replacement fee receipt is $6.70. Call 02 9527 8957 to obtain a replacement or download a form from our website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS

For All Conditions Within AustraliaDEPARTMENT OF VETERINS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF VETERINS’ AFFAIRS

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9WhERE do My FiShiNg FEES go?Recreational fishing trustsAll funds raised from the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee are placed into recreational fishing trusts – one for saltwater and one for freshwater - and can only be spent on improving recreational fishing. Committees of expert anglers provide advice on how funds in the trusts should be spent.

There is a lot more information on the website at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au. Anyone can apply for funding from the trusts to improve recreational fishing. Details can be found at the above website. Examples of some trust funded projects are provided as follows.

Fish Aggregating devices (FAds). Twenty five fish aggregating devices (FADs) are placed in coastal waters each year to attract pelagic fish for recreational fishing. Anglers can now receive email alerts for all FAD related news. Sign up on our website.

game Fish Tagging Program The program provides valuable scientific information on the movement and growth of billfish, tuna, sharks and selected sportfish. Did you know a Blue Shark first released off

the coast of South Australia was recaptured off South Africa after travelling over 9000 kilometres? Phone (02) 9527 8411 to find out how to tag and report tagged fish.

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10More facilities for fishers Funding grants are available for fishing clubs, local councils and community groups to improve recreational fishing facilities including

fish cleaning tables, fish measuring stations, fishing platforms and other infrastructure. Ensure your local group gets involved!

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Fishcare Volunteer Program This dynamic program involves 350 volunteers across the state providing face to face awareness and advising fishers about the rules and values of sustainable recreational fishing. For more information see Community Programs Section pages 18-19.

Artificial reefsMore estuarine artificial reefs are being installed to create new habitat and enhance recreational fishing.

The State’s first offshore artificial reef has been deployed off Sydney. It stands 12 metres high, weighs around 42 tonnes and has been deployed at a depth of 38m. The reef is being scientifically monitored to assess it’s effectiveness.

New locations for potential offshore artificial reef sites are now being investigated.

Sydney Offshore Artificial Reef GPS Coordinates (WGS84):Latitude - 33°50.797’SLongitude - 151°17.988’E

For more information on both estuarine and offshore artificial reefs including their locations, check the website.

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get hooked: it’s Fun to Fish education program.A primary school education program is teaching children in schools across NSW about safe, responsible and sustainable fishing. This includes running coastal fishing workshop weeks which enable students to put into practice skills learned during their Get Hooked class lessons. Get your local school involved – for more information see Community Programs Section pages 18-19.

habitat action programA range of actions are being funded to protect and repair important fish habitat. Activities include removing barriers to fish migration, replanting and protecting river bank vegetation and restoring tidal flows in order to provide good water quality, healthy habitats and fisheries.

Marine stockingNSW DPI is currently completing an environmental assessment and feasibility study of a state-wide marine fish stocking program.

going rock fishing – fish safely! Rock fishing is popular but can be dangerous. Ensure your safety and check out www.safefishing.com.au for some tips to keep safe while rock fishing.

Angel rings (life buoys) continue to be installed by the Australian National Sportfishing Association (NSW Branch) at popular rock fishing locations. For more information on angel ring locations, check www.angelrings.com.au.

Get your free DVDs on fishing safely when:n Rock fishing n Freshwater fishing n Spearfishing

Go to the above website, email info@safefishing.com.au or phone (02) 9527 8411.

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Want to find out more information? Check our website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

Want to apply for funding? More information and the application package can be found on the website at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 9527 8411.

Fisheries officersTrust funded field officers are based in many regions throughout NSW to maximise compliance with fishing rules and provide advisory services to recreational fishers.

Essential recreational research Activities include:n Research surveys in Recreational Fishing

Havens.

n Biology and behaviour of popular recreational species.

n Research on methods to maximise released fish survival.

n Fishing tournament monitoring.

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14REcREATioNAL FiShiNg hAVENSThirty Recreational Fishing Havens, areas largely free of commercial fishing, were created along the NSW coast to provide better angling opportunities for recreational fishers. Money raised from the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee enabled a $20 million buyout to create the havens. The havens also promote tourism and create employment in the local areas.

Area Notes

Tweed River Recreational fishing only downstream from Boyds Bay Bridge and from south of Rocky Point east to Fingal Road. Wommin Lake, Wommin Lagoon and six canal estates beyond that area are also recreational fishing only (i.e. Seagulls Canal, Tweed West Canals, Blue Water Canals, Crystal Waters Canal, Endless Summer Canal Estate, Oxley Cove).

Richmond River Recreational fishing only downstream from a line drawn east across the Richmond River from the south eastern corner of portion 21 which is the river end of Emigrant Point Lane beside the flood gate. Commercial trapping and eel trapping is permitted in the river and Emigrant Creek upstream from the Burns Point Ferry. Commercial Sea Mullet hauling is allowed within the Recreational Fishing Haven - adjacent to Shaws Bay below the Missingham Bridge - from 1 April to 31 July each year. Commercial netting is not permitted from Tatham Bridge upstream to ‘Norco Weir’ at Casino.

clarence River The following areas are for recreational fishing only:1) Middle Wall - a 2 kilometre stretch at the Clarence River mouth near

Yamba (commercial hauling during the mullet travelling season - April to August - will still be permitted in this area).

2) Romiaka Bridge - waters adjacent to the Romiaka Channel Road Bridge, just outside Yamba.

3) Oyster Channel Bridge - waters adjacent to Oyster Channel Road Bridge, near Yamba.

4) Entrance of Saltwater Inlet - a 300 metre stretch of river on the eastern side of North Arm, between Arris Island and Saltwater Inlet, near Iluka.

camden haven River

Recreational fishing only downstream from Dunbogan Bridge and North Haven Bridge (including Gogleys Lagoon).

Manning River Recreational fishing only downstream from Ghinni Ghinni and Berady Creek (including Scotts Creek).

Botany Bay Recreational fishing only with the exception of abalone gathering and rocklobster trapping.

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The following locations are recreational fishing only:

Bellinger River (including Kalang River)

Lake Tabourie Nelson Lake (Nelson Lagoon)

Deep Creek Meroo Lake Bega River

Hastings River Tomaga River Back Lake (Back Lagoon)

Lake Macquarie Tuross Lake (including Tuross River and Borang Lake).

Pambula River

St Georges Basin Lake Brunderee Yowaka River

Lake Conjola Dalmeny Lake (also known as Mummaga Lake)

Nullica River

Narrawallee Inlet Little Lake (also known as Little Tilba Lake and Hoyers Lake)

Towamba River (also known as Kiah River)

Burrill Lake Bermagui River Wonboyn Lake, River and Wonboyn Beach (to 500 metres from mean high water level)

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Recreational Fishing havens in NSWRefer to the website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au for local area maps.

North coast Plenty of good fishing. Richmond River around Ballina for whiting and luderick; the lower parts of the Tweed River for mulloway, trevally and tailor; and the Hastings River at Port Macquarie for bream.

SydneyTry Botany Bay. It’s a top spot for bream, luderick, kingfish and tailor.

central coast or NewcastleCheck out Lake Macquarie for flathead, bream and whiting.

South coastWide choice of lakes and estuaries. St Georges Basin for flathead, leatherjackets and blue swimmer crabs; Tuross Lake for flathead, tailor and mulloway; Bermagui and Bega Rivers are renowned for bass, bream and tailor.

Tweed River 4sq km from the mouth of the Tweed River to Boyds Bay bridge and from Rocky Point east to Fingal Road, including canal estates.

Richmond River8sq km from the mouth

of the Richmond River to Emigrant Creek.

clarence River Four locations within the river – a 2km stretch at middle wall, around Romiaka bridge and Oyster Channel bridge, and a spot at the entrance of Saltwater Inlet.

camden haven RiverDown from Dunbogan and North Haven bridges including Gogleys Lagoon.

Manning RiverDownstream from Ghinni Ghinni and Berady Creek, including Scotts Creek.

Bellinger/Kalang Riversdeep creek

hastings River

Lake Macquarie

Botany BaySydney

St georges Basin, Lake conjolaNarrawallee inlet, Burrill Lake

Lake Tabourie, Meroo LakeTomaga River Tuross Lake/Tuross River,

Lake Brundereedalmeny (or Mummaga Lake)

Little Lake (or Little Tilba Lake & hoyers Lake), Bermagui River

Nelson Lake, Bega River Back Lake, Pambula Riveryowaka River, Nullica River Towamba River (or Kiah River) Wonboyn Lake, River and Beach

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your fishing fee supporting community programs Do you have a passion for fishing and would like to contribute to protecting our aquatic environment? Why not become a Fishcare Volunteer?

The NSW DPI Fishcare Volunteer Program is funded by the NSW Government through the Recreational Fishing Trust. As a volunteer you will be helping to create better awareness among anglers and the wider community about sustainable recreational fishing. Volunteers provide assistance in activities such as children’s fishing workshops, angler education, habitat rehabilitation, assisting in research programs and advisory displays at trade shows and field days. Volunteers also assist on the water in dedicated Fishcare boats. The program continues to grow with over 350 volunteers across NSW, participating in around 400 events per year and making over 40,000 contacts.

help take a kid fishing NSW DPI fishing workshops are coordinated by Fisheries Education Officers with assistance from Fishcare Volunteers, and some fishing club members. Each year, volunteers assist around 7,000 anglers between the ages of 8-14 years learn the basics of fishing. They teach hands-on fishing techniques such as casting, rigging, and safe handling of fish at a local fishing spot. Fishing workshops also teach young children about good fishing practices, the importance of protecting our fishing resources, threatened species and aquatic habitat.

Assist at your local school The NSW DPI Get Hooked It’s Fun to Fish program encourages children to take an active role in the management of their waterways and fish stocks. Aimed at primary school students, each year around 5,000 kids from around 70 schools are introduced to saltwater

coMMuNiTy PRogRAMS

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19and freshwater fishing, the significance of aquatic life and life-cycles, catch and release skills, and the importance of sustaining quality fish habitat while practising safe and responsible fishing behaviours. Fishcare Volunteers are a valuable resource for teachers, especially in the fishing workshop component of the program. To volunteer you will need to be available on some weekdays between 9am-3pm.

Who can become a volunteer? If you are over 18 years of age and can assist around one day per month, you can apply to become a volunteer. Conditions apply. Fishcare Volunteers have no enforcement powers.

If you would like more information about these programs or would like to apply to become a Fishcare Volunteer, please visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au or call: Dee McElligott, State Coordinator – Community Programs, Recreational Fishing on 02 9527 8531 or email dee.mcelligott@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

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20RESPoNSiBLE FiShiNgNSW DPI promotes responsible fishing practices. The following guidelines can be applied whether you take fish for the table or release your fish. n Only catch sufficient fish for your

immediate needs. Release all others using best practice catch and release techniques. Remember all fish, including scavengers, are important to the ecosystem.

n If you retain your catch, dispatch all fish and invertebrates swiftly and humanely. To avoid wastage always chill your catch immediately with ice.

n Dispose of all litter and fish waste responsibly.n Be considerate of others and keep noise to a

minimum, especially in residential areas.n Use environmentally friendly fishing

tackle such as lead-alternative sinkers, biodegradable line, and non-stainless hooks where possible.

n Act responsibly when you have reached your bag limit and you remain at the fishing grounds. Ensure any additional fish caught have the best chance of survival once released. If you are fishing deep water, consider moving to a different location to reduce potential discard mortality.

For more information visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

catch and release fishingRecent NSW DPI research has shown that most fish survive using current catch and release techniques with the main factors found to reduce survival being deep hooking and poor handling (see adjacent table).

The tips on following pages will help to maximise the survival of angler released fish.

Reduce wildlife injuries Birds, turtles, platypus and other aquatic animals can be accidentally injured by discarded fishing tackle and unattended fishing gear such as crab traps and nets. To reduce injuries: n Avoid using unattended lines and check

your crab traps and nets regularly. Reducing set time for any fishing gear reduces the chances of harm to accidentally caught aquatic animals.

n Using crab traps and nets when fishing towards an estuary’s headwaters has a higher risk of interacting with platypus.

Please be extra vigilant, check traps and nets regularly and consider moving gear further downstream.

n Avoid bird feeding and nesting areas. n Avoid using stainless steel hooks. n Collect and dispose of any discarded

fishing line, other gear or rubbish. n Cut discarded fishing line into small

pieces to avoid entanglement in case birds and other animals scavenge rubbish bins.

n Don’t leave ANYTHING behind. Even plastic bags can prove fatal when sea turtles mistake them for natural jellyfish prey.

catch and release fish survival results

Species % survival Main factors for reduced survival

dusky Flathead 91-96 Poor handling and sub-optimal live well water quality.

Luderick 99 Poor handling.

Mulloway 73-81 Deep hooking and poor handling.

Sand Whiting 93 Deep hooking.

SilverTrevally

68-98 Excessive time in poorly designed live wells.

Snapper 67-92 Deep hooking and poor handling.

Tailor 92 Deep hooking.

yellowfinBream

72-97 Deep hooking.

yellowtail Kingfish 85 Deep hooking.

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22Maximising fish survivalTo maximise fish survival when practising catch and release, it is important to follow a few simple rules:n Use methods and rigs that reduce deep

hooking:

n Target fish using artificial lures.

n Try to remove hooks and release fish as quickly as possible. The use of needle-nosed pliers or hook retrieving devices can greatly reduce time spent unhooking.

n Remove hooks from mouth-hooked fish.

n Ideally unhook fish while they are still in the water.

n Choose non-offset circle hooks when using bait.

n Minimise the length of time the fish is out of the water and swiftly unhook.

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n If the fish is hooked deeply, cut the line as close as possible to the fish’s mouth rather than removing the hook.

n Compared to removing swallowed hooks from bream and mulloway, simply cutting the line increases short-term survival from 12 percent to more than 85 percent.

n Up to 76 percent of released line-cut, gut-hooked bream shed hooks within around three weeks.

n If live wells are used, ensure they are of sufficient size and maintain good water quality by using a flow through, aerated system. This is especially important during the summer months when water temperatures are high.

n Poorly designed live wells reduce fish survival – particularly silver trevally where survival dropped from 98 percent to 63 percent.

n Use fish-friendly landing nets with knotless mesh.

n Avoid knotted landing nets which may damage the fish’s scales, skin, eyes and fins.

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24other practices to help increase survivaln Use suitable tackle for the species that you

are targeting and minimise the time spent to land the fish.

n Handle fish firmly and carefully. Avoid dropping fish on to the bottom of boats and other hard surfaces. Remember, many surfaces, especially metal can become very hot in the sun.

n Use wet hands or wet gloves when handling a fish to minimise damage to its skin.

n A smooth, wet surface such as vinyl covered foam is best to lay fish on if they are removed from the water.

n Use barbless hooks or hooks with reduced barbs to make hook removal easier and minimise hook damage.

n This can be achieved by squeezing barbs down with pliers, or filing down larger barbs.

n Carefully return fish to the water. Do not throw them. Take care to revive any fish upon release if they appear exhausted (struggling to hold themselves upright and/or unable to swim away).

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n Gently hold or push the fish through the water so that it obtains a good flow of water over its gills. If there is any water current, hold the fish upright facing towards the current until it starts to show signs of recovery.

n If you are going to take photos of your fish before release, support the fish properly. n Do not hold fish by the gills, eyes or

unsupported by the jaw. n Avoid lifting very large fish from the

water.

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26how to use circle hooksCircle hooks have been shown to increase the survival of angler released fish. With their success already proven for many game fish species, the hooks are now used increasingly for many other common recreational species including bream, flathead and kingfish.

Circle hooks bring about many benefits for anglers, but they do require a few minor changes to your normal fishing techniques.

n Do not bury your hook (particularly with tough baits), lightly hook the bait so that the point and barb are exposed or “bridle” the bait.

n When using soft baits like peeled prawn or bread it is not so important to expose the hook as fish will crush the bait during the bite and become hooked.

n Do not strike at the fish, allow the fish time to take the bait into its mouth and then apply slow and steady pressure to set the hook in the mouth area. The fish often hook themselves.

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n Non-offset circle hooks are recommended for the best mouth-hooking results.

n Use a de-hooker or needle-nosed pliers to help with unhooking.

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BarotraumaFish may suffer from barotrauma injuries when they are caught from deep water. Barotrauma occurs as a result of the expansion of gases in the swim bladder and other organs as the fish are not able to adjust to the rapid decrease in water pressure when they are pulled towards the surface. The effects and severity of barotrauma injuries increase with depth of capture and susceptibility varies between fish species.

Physical symptoms of fish suffering from barotrauma can include: an inflated abdomen, bulging eyes, the stomach protruding from the mouth and intestines protruding from the anus. Returning the fish to capture depth is crucial in maximising the post-release survival of barotrauma-affected fish. If the fight time and the amount of time the fish spends at the surface or out of the water are minimised then the fish may be able to return to depth by itself. Otherwise: n Consider using a specially

designed release weight, which when inserted through the upper or lower jaw, returns the fish to capture depth.

n Consider carefully inserting a hypodermic needle or similar into the swim bladder to vent the gases trapped inside the fish’s abdominal cavity. This technique requires considerable experience to carry out successfully without inadvertently damaging internal organs as the size and location of the swim bladder varies from species to species. Avoid puncturing the stomach if it is protruding from the mouth; it will return to

normal when the fish returns to depth.More information on these techniques is

available under best practice at:www.recfishingresearch.org/released-fish-survival/.

charter boat fishingCharter boat operators providing fishing trips for anglers in NSW estuaries and ocean waters need a licence to operate their business. You will recognise a licensed NSW charter fishing boat by distinctive markings on the boat – the letters CFB followed by a number. These experienced charter fishing operators usually provide all fishing equipment and are also keen to provide advice and assist with your fishing activities to help you learn more about fishing. It is illegal for an unlicensed boat to be used for charter fishing in NSW. Make sure the boat has a current NSW DPI charter fishing boat licence and NSW Maritime Authority survey before you board it. If you have any concerns contact your local NSW DPI fisheries office or for more information and a list of charter fishing operators, visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

Swim bladder

HeartStomach

Kidney

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catch and release mats for recreational fishersA catch and release measuring mat has been designed to help fishers accurately record their catch. The mat includes full colour illustrations of the most popular species of fish and conversion tables so approximate weight can

be estimated from length measurement. The catch and release mats are available for

purchase, contact 1800 028 374 or visit our website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

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Weigh your fish with a rulerFish biologists have calculated length and weight relationships for some popular fish species which can be used to estimate the weight of a fish by measuring its length. Please note that these figures are estimates only and individual fish weight can vary depending on age, sex, season and recent feeding activity. Measuring lengthFork length measurements have been used for

coNVERTiNg FiSh LENgThS To WEighTS

dusky Flathead

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

36 0.3 58 1.3

37 0.3 60 1.5

38 0.3 62 1.7

39 0.4 64 1.8

40 0.4 66 2.0

41 0.4 68 2.2

42 0.5 70 2.5

43 0.5 72 2.7

44 0.6 74 2.9

45 0.6 76 3.2

46 0.6 78 3.5

47 0.7 80 3.8

48 0.7 85 4.6

49 0.8 90 5.5

50 0.8 95 6.6

52 0.9 100 7.8

54 1.1 105 9.1

56 1.2 110 10.6

Total length used for both legal length measurements and weight calculation.

Australian Bass

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

25 0.3 43 1.5

26 0.3 44 1.6

27 0.4 45 1.8

28 0.4 46 1.9

29 0.4 47 2.1

30 0.5 48 2.2

31 0.6 49 2.4

32 0.6 50 2.5

33 0.7 51 2.7

34 0.8 52 2.9

35 0.8 53 2.9

36 0.9 54 3.0

37 1.0 55 3.2

38 1.1 56 3.4

39 1.1 57 3.7

40 1.2 58 3.9

41 1.3 59 4.1

42 1.4 60 4.3

Total length used for both legal length measurements and weight calculation.

Yellowfin Bream, Yellowtail Kingfish, Snapper, Sand Whiting, Tailor and Australian Salmon in the conversion tables and total length used for Australian Bass, Dusky Flathead and Mulloway. Fork length is measured from the snout to the fork of the tail. Total length is measured from the snout to the tip of the tail.Remember: Legal length is the total length measurement of the fish. If you retain your catch, dispatch all fish and invertebrates swiftly and humanely.

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Snapper

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

40 1.3 72 6.9

42 1.5 74 7.4

44 1.7 76 8.0

46 2.0 78 8.6

48 2.2 80 9.2

50 2.5 82 9.8

52 2.8 84 10.5

54 3.1 86 11.2

56 3.4 88 12.0

58 3.8 90 12.7

60 4.1 92 13.5

62 4.5 94 14.4

64 4.9 96 15.2

66 5.4 98 16.1

68 5.8 100 17.1

70 6.3

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

30 0.6 35 0.931 0.7 36 1.032 0.7 37 1.133 0.8 38 1.234 0.9 39 1.3

Total length for legal length calculation

Fork length for weight calculation

Adult Snapper

Juvenile Snapper

Sand Whiting

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

25 0.1 28 0.2

26 0.1 29 0.2

27 0.2 30 0.2

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

31 0.2 41 0.5

32 0.3 42 0.6

33 0.3 43 0.6

34 0.3 44 0.7

35 0.3 45 0.7

36 0.4 46 0.8

37 0.4 47 0.8

38 0.4 48 0.9

39 0.5 49 0.9

40 0.5 50 1.0

Fork length for weight calculation

Total length for legal length measurement

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Tailor

yellowtail Kingfish

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

30 0.3 34 0.5

32 0.4 36 0.6

Fork length for weight calculation

Total length for legal length measurement ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

38 0.7 60 3.0

40 0.7 62 3.4

42 1.0 64 3.8

44 1.2 66 4.2

46 1.3 68 4.6

48 1.5 70 5.0

50 1.7 72 5.5

52 1.9 74 6.0

54 2.2 76 6.5

56 2.5 78 7.1

58 2.8 80 7.7

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

60 2.8 67 3.8

61 2.9 68 4.0

62 3.0 69 4.2

63 3.2 70 4.4

64 3.4 71 4.6

65 3.5 72 4.8

66 3.7 73 5.0

Total length for legal length measurement

Fork length for weight calculation

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

74 5.2 100 12.8

76 5.6 105 14.8

78 6.1 110 17.0

80 6.5 115 19.4

82 7.0 120 22.0

84 7.6 125 24.9

86 8.1 130 28.0

88 8.7 135 31.4

90 9.3 140 35.0

92 9.9 145 38.9

94 10.6 150 43.0

96 11.3 155 47.5

98 12.0 160 52.0

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yellowfin Bream

Australian Salmon

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

30 0.4 54 2.533 0.6 57 3.036 0.7 60 3.540 0.9 63 4.142 1.2 66 4.745 1.5 69 5.448 1.8 72 6.151 2.1 75 6.9

Fork length for legal length measurement

Fork length for weight calculation

Mulloway

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

TotalLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

45 1.0 84 6.248 1.2 88 7.149 1.3 92 8.152 1.5 100 10.356 1.9 108 12.960 2.3 112 14.464 2.8 120 17.668 3.3 130 22.372 3.9 140 27.776 4.6 150 34.080 5.4 160 41.1

Total length used for both legal length measurements and weight calculation.

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

Fork Length(cm)

Weight(kg)

25 0.4 29 0.6

26 0.4 30 0.7

27 0.5 31 0.7

28 0.5 32 0.8

ForkLength(cm)

Weight(kg)

Fork Length(cm)

Weight(kg)

33 0.9 47 2.5

34 1.0 48 2.7

35 1.0 49 2.9

36 1.1 50 3.1

37 1.2 51 3.2

38 1.3 52 3.4

39 1.5 53 3.6

40 1.6 54 3.8

41 1.7 55 4.1

42 1.8 56 4.3

43 1.9 57 4.5

44 2.1 58 4.8

45 2.2 59 5.1

46 2.4 60 5.3

Total length for legal length measurement

Fork length for weight calculation

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36n Fish only in places you know are safe

and never fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas. Make sure you are aware of local weather, swell and tidal conditions before going fishing. Listen to weather forecasts or call the weather information line on 1900 937 107. Be aware that conditions may change dramatically in a short period of time.

n observe first, fish later. Spend some time (at least 30 minutes) watching your intended spot before fishing to get an idea of the conditions over a full swell/wave cycle. Wave conditions can get worse as the tide changes - you should know whether the tides are high or low and coming in or going out.

n Plan an escape route in case you are washed in. Stay calm - if you are washed in, swim away from the rocks and look for a safe place to come ashore or stay afloat and wait for help to arrive.

n Stay alert. Never ever turn your back on the sea - if the waves, weather or swell threaten your fishing spot then leave immediately.

n Ask for advice from locals who know the

FiShiNg SAFELygoing rock fishingFishing, especially rock fishing, can be dangerous. Follow these basic safety tips at all times when rock fishing:n Never fish by yourself. Fish in a group of a

least three people and within sight of each other. If someone is washed in, one person can stay and help while the other alerts emergency services (dial 000).

n inform others of your plans. Always let friends or family know where you are going and when you wilI be back.

n Wear light clothing. Light clothing such as shorts and a spray jacket will let you swim easily If you are washed in. Jumpers may be heavy and difficult to take off.

n Wear appropriate footwear. Cleats, sandals and sandshoes with non slip soles suit different surfaces. Use the appropriate shoes for the conditions.

n carry safety gear. Wear a life jacket or buoyancy vest. Also bring something buoyant that can be easily thrown and held onto, to help you stay afloat. Carry ropes, a float and torches.

These two images were taken eight minutes apart on a rock platform at Coogee.

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37area. They will always tell you when an area is dangerous.

n do not jump in if someone is washed into the water. Use your rope or something that floats to rescue the person. If there is an Angel Ring nearby know how to use it. Dial 000 to alert emergency services to get help.

A rock fishing safety DVD is available free of charge from the following websites www.safefishing.com.au or www.rfansw.com.au, by emailing info@safefishing.com.au or by calling (02) 9527 8411.

Safe spearfishing Spearfishing can be a particularly dangerous form of recreational fishing. A few key safety tips include: n Never hyperventilate. Shallow water

blackout is a real danger. n Never spearfish alone and always inform

others of your fishing plans. n Always dive with a buddy in sight of you at

all times and practice the “one diver up, one diver down” rule

n Never point your speargun at anyone (including yourself ) for any reason.

n Avoid carrying spearguns through crowded areas.

n Always handle your speargun as if it is loaded.

n Never load your speargun while out of the water. Always load and unload your speargun while in the water.

n Avoid Propeller strike. To alert other vessels in the vicinity that there are divers on the surface ensure your safety vessel clearly displays the International diver-down flag “A” and that all divers in the water are towing a highly visible float with a safety flag attached.

Safe boatingAny person who drives a recreational powered vessel on NSW waterways at a speed of 10 knots or more must hold a current NSW Maritime Boat Drivers Licence.

It is important to stay safe when out on the water. Detailed advice on safe boating is available in the NSW Maritime publication “Boating Handbook”. The booklet, as well as further information, can be obtained by calling the NSW Maritime infoline on 131 256 or by checking website www.maritime.nsw.gov.au.

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38Key safe boating tips include:n You must comply with all NSW Maritime

requirements including the new lifejacket rules. Visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au for more information.

n Ensure the vessel is seaworthy and fuel tanks full. Check batteries beforehand and run the auxiliary motor periodically.

n Ensure the vessel is fully equipped for emergencies.

n Know how the safety gear works. Make sure everyone knows where it is stowed and how to use it.

n Let someone know your expected time of return. If going out to sea, advise the local coastal patrol as you leave port.

n Take plenty of food and water. n Wear non-slip shoes and take raincoats and

warm clothing. n Know when you and your passengers need

to wear a lifejacket including: n When crossing a bar n When on a vessel less than 4.8m in open

water, at night or when alone n At other times of heightened risk n Children under 12 must wear a lifejacket

at most times.

n If possible, fish with another vessel. In an emergency the other can help or radio for help.

n If a front approaches or the weather changes suddenly head back to shore.

For more information on safe boating and safe fishing, please visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au and www.safefishing.com.au.

Bar crossingsBar crossings can be dangerous and require utmost care. n Use a tide chart and check the weather. n Avoid crossing a bar on an ebb or a run-

out tide when the most dangerous wave conditions usually occur.

n Wear a lifejacket each time crossing the bar. n On approaching the bar, stop and watch

the wave pattern. Look for a flat period and proceed when safe.

n Do not go if in doubt or if you lack experience. It is not worth your life and perhaps the lives of others just for a day of fishing.

n Try to take any waves as close to head on as possible.

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39WhAT LiFEJAcKET AM i REQuiREd To WEAR oN My REcREATioNAL VESSEL?

BoATiNg AcTiViTy/ VESSEL TyPE

SiTuATioN LiFEJAcKET oPTioNS

Children under 12 years of age

n At all times in a vessel under 4.8mn When in an open area of a vessel 4.8m to 8m that is under way: n On enclosed water type 1, 2 or 3

n On open (ocean) waters type 1

n On alpine waters type 1 or 2

On all boats less than 4.8m (unless specified

below)

n All occupants on enclosed waters when: n Boating at night type 1, 2 or 3

n Boating alone type 1, 2 or 3

n At all times on open waters type 1

n At all times if the vessel is being used more than 400m from the shore to transport persons or goods between the shore and a vessel, or between vessels. type 1, 2 or 3

n At all times on alpine waters type 1 or 2

When wearing waders All vessels on alpine waters type 1

All towing Anyone being towed at all times on all waters type 1, 2 or 3

Canoes and kayaksn On enclosed waters more than 100m from

shoretype 1, 2 or 3

n On open waters at all times type 1, 2 or 3

n On alpine waters at all times type 1 or 2

Off the beach sailing vessel (e.g. catamaran &

centreboard boats)

All occupants on open and alpine waters at all times

type 1 or 2

Sailboarding When more than 400m from shore: n On enclosed waters type 1, 2 or 3

n On open and alpine waters type 1 or 2

Kiteboarding

When more than 400m from shore & kiting alone: n On enclosed waters type 1, 2 or 3

n On open waters type 1, 2 or 3

n On alpine waters type 1 or 2

PWC (jetski)n On enclosed waters at all times type 1, 2 or 3

n On open and alpine waters at all times type 1 or 2

n Tow-in-surfer on open waters type 1, 2 or 3

Crossing coastal bars All vessels, everyone on board type 1*

Skipper’s responsibility When the skipper considers a “heightened risk“ situation exists: n On enclosed waters type 1, 2 or 3

n On open and apline waters type 1 or 2* Unless specified elsewhere.

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FETyFood SAFETyMany people enjoy eating the fish and seafood they catch. If you intend to eat your catch, there are some important tips to follow to be able to enjoy your catch and avoid causing illness.

Like all fresh food from animals, seafood needs to be handled carefully to minimise the risk of food poisoning.

Tips for fishingImportant tips for catching or collecting seafood include: n Keep fresh seafood cold and covered by

putting in ice or a refrigerator straight away.

n Keep equipment clean. n Don’t let recreational seafood or bait drip

onto other food.n Only catch or collect seafood when water

quality is good. Remember that water quality can change and not all harmful things can be seen with the naked eye.

check the current waterway status for: n Known algal ‘red alerts’ via

n Local signsn Local media n The NSW Office of Water website: www.

water.nsw.gov.au, or n Telephone 1800 999 457n Fishing closures related to food safety, issued

by NSW DPI via website: www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

n Avoid collecting and eating shellfish recreationally. If you choose to collect and eat shellfish such as mussels or oysters do not collect after heavy rainfall. Runoff water following heavy rainfall carries pollution into waterways, sometimes including sewage. Wait three weeks after heavy rainfall to reduce the risk of bacterial and viral contamination; and

n Don’t collect pipis. Collecting pipis for human consumption is prohibited in NSW. They are permitted to be used as bait but cannot be removed more than 50m from the high tide mark. Pipis and cockles may contain toxins due to natural algal blooms. The blooms are not always visible.

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Tips for safe eatingn Always cook recreational seafood

thoroughly. In particular, never eat raw shellfish which has been collected recreationally as they are not subject to the same strict food safety controls as commercially harvested shellfish.

n Do not eat fish which have washed up on beaches and shorelines. Mass fish kills can sometimes see numbers of dead or dying fish appear along the coastline. The cause of death is often unknown and consumption of these fish can be a health risk.

n Remember that cooking will not destroy or remove toxins which might be present in seafood from poor quality waters. Eating seafood contaminated with toxins can result in serious illness or death.

‘Red alert’ algal warnings and visible blooms Some algae produce harmful toxins that can build up in marine shellfish such as mussels, oysters and crustacea such as crabs, prawns.

Algal blooms can appear as water discolouration including red, green, yellow, brownish or an oily or milky appearance. Scum may form on the water surface. The water may have a musty, earthy or pungent smell. Some other blooms are not visible but are highly toxic even at low levels. n Do not collect shellfish, gastropods or

crustacea such as crabs or prawns from waters affected by algal blooms.

n For further background on the risks of toxic algal blooms go to www.whoi.edu/redtide/

Fishing closures Do not take seafood listed in a NSW DPI food safety closure notice.

Some waterways have been contaminated by industrial pollution and are not suitable for catching or collecting seafood.

Sewage spills sometimes contaminate waters with harmful bacteria and viruses. Sewage spills are especially high risk for shellfish.

Sydney harbour and Parramatta RiverDue to elevated levels of dioxins detected in some fish and seafood in Sydney Harbour/Port Jackson and the Parramatta River:

n No fish or seafood caught recreationally west of Sydney Harbour Bridge should be eaten; catches should be released.

n Fish or seafood caught recreationally east of Sydney Harbour Bridge should be limited generally to no more than 150gms per month, or to the amounts in the dietary advice for each species. For further information go to www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/sydneyharbour.

n It is prohibited to collect shellfish such as mussels, oysters, pipis and cockles from Sydney Harbour.

All commercial fishing in Sydney Harbour/Port Jackson has been halted.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

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PREgNANT WoMEN ANd WoMEN

PLANNiNg PREgNANcy

1 serve equals 150 grams

chiLdREN (uP To 6 yEARS)

1 serve equals 75 grams

REST oF ThE PoPuLATioN

1 serve equals 150 grams

2 – 3 serves per week of any fish and seafood  not listed below

2 – 3 serves per week of any fish and seafood not listed in the column below

OR OR

1 serve per week of Orange Roughy (Sea Perch) or Catfish and no other fish that week

1 serve per week of Shark (Flake) or Billfish (Swordfish / Broadbill and Marlin) and no other fish that week

OR  

1 serve per fortnight of Shark (Flake) or Billfish (Swordfish / Broadbill and Marlin) and no other fish that fortnight 

Be mercury aware

Mercury in fishAustralian Dietary Guidelines advise eating one or two fish meals per week for good health. Most fish caught in Australia are low in mercury, but some fish have higher mercury levels so it’s best to know the mercury levels

of different types of fish and how often to eat each type.

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand has found it is safe for all population groups to eat 2-3 serves per week of most types of fish. However, consumption of billfish (swordfish and marlin), shark (flake), orange roughy and catfish should be limited to the amounts in the table below.   

Pregnant women, women planning pregnancy and young children can continue to consume a variety of fish as part of a healthy diet. However they should limit their consumption of certain species which are higher in mercury because too much mercury can harm developing nervous systems.

Check the table below to select fish safely.

More informationFor more information from the NSW Food Authority phone 1300 552 406 or check the website at www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au

Marlin

Shark

Swordfish

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44KNoTS ANd RigSPalomar knot. The Palomar knot is quick to tie and forms a strong knot. It is a general-purpose connection used in joining fishing lines to swivels, snaps, hooks and artificial lures. The double wrap provides a protective cushion for added strength.

1. Double the line and form a loop about 10cms long. Pass it through the eye of the hook.

2. Form an overhand knot on the eye of the hook.

3. Extend the loop and pass it over the hook.

4. Moisten the knot before pulling tight. Trim the tag when complete.

1. Thread line through eye.

2. Make this configuration.

3. Begin wrapping loop C with tag A.

4. Continue wrapping four to six times.

5. Moisten the line and form a knot by pulling tag A against loop C.

6. As you continue to pull on the tag all of the spirals in the tag are transferred to the loop D.

7. This forms a slipping knot and loop.

8. The loop C disappears as the knot slides down on to the eye.

uni knot or grinner knot. This is an excellent knot for connecting hooks and swivels to the end of fishing lines. A very dependable knot even for deep sea fishing. Use more wraps with lighter line, less with heavier line. It can also be used to attach your fishing line to your reel by passing the line around the back of the spool rather than through the eye of the hook.

A

AA

C CC

DD

B

A

C

CD

B

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double uni knot. This is a useful knot for joining two lines.

1. Overlap the lines to be joined then encircle one line with the tag of the other.

2. Wrap the double strand inside the formed loop.

3. Make four wraps in all.

4. Do the same with the other line so the knot in each line is tied around the other.

5. Moisten the line and tighten each knot in turn.

6. Draw the knots together, tighten once more, then trim the tags.

Perfection loop. Of many loops used to attach flies and lures, the Perfection loop is favoured because it lays relatively straight and does not point out to the side. It is tricky to tie so follow the instructions carefully.

1. Make a simple overhand knot in the leader and thread the tag through the eye of the lure or fly.

2. Pass the tag back through the overhand knot alongside the other strand.

3. Now bend the tag back so it goes back up through the knot as shown. The sequence is over, over, under, over, under.

4. Moisten the knot before pulling tight. Trim the tag.

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46Albright knot. This is a particularly useful knot for joining braid to a nylon leader.

1. Double the end of a heavier monofilament leader and thread your lighter line through and around the loop.

2. Wrap down the loop with the lighter line.

3. Make five wraps down and work back wrapping over the originals.

4. After making five wraps in each direction thread the tag back through the loop.

5. Use gentle pressure on both leaders and tags to partially close the knot.

6. As the knot tightens let both tags go, moisten the knot and use firm pressure on line against leader.

7. Finally, close the knot and trim the tags.

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dropper loop. This is a loop which can be used to attach a hook or leader anywhere along a length of line.

2. Twist the smaller loop from both ends but alternate the twisting and holding between hands. 3. Make six complete twists (braid line) or four complete twists (monofilament). Then thread the larger loop through the middle of the smaller loop you have twisted.

4 & 5. Slip the knot around something solid. Moisten the knot before pulling tight. Take care not to shear off either side. The finished knot will be strong enough for most fishing needs.

1. Make a loop where the dropper is to be. Then cross the main line to form a second smaller loop.

1.

2.

4.

3.

5.

Spider hitch. This knot retains around 80 percent of monofilament line strength but only 40-60 percent in braid lines. While not as strong as a Bimini or Plait, it is quick, easy to tie and provides a double strand to attach terminals and leaders.

1. Determine your double or end loop size, twist a second loop just above the tag end and hold between left thumb and forefinger. 2. Wind the double around your thumb 3. Make four or five complete wraps.

4. Pass the loop in the double through the second loop. 5. Pull gently on the double until all loops slide from your thumb (pinch thumb and finger firmly to disengage loops one at a time).6. Moisten the loops and tension all four strands equally as the knot is pulled tight.

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4.

2.

5.

3.

6.

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1. Pass the loop end of a double through the eye of a snap swivel and then pass the swivel through the loop. 2. Fold the loop end of the double back against the standing part of the loop. 3. Rotate the swivel through the central loop thus formed. 4. Depending on the flexibility and thickness of the line, repeat the rotation between three to six times. 5. Moisten the knot before gently pulling tight to close.

cats paw. This is a useful knot to attach a double to a swivel.

1.

4.

5.

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3.

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Running sinker rigs. A running sinker is not fixed but slides along the line until it reaches a stop or the hook. They are used where it is an advantage to let fish pick up bait without feeling the weight of a sinker.

Fixed sinker rigs. A simple bottom fishing rig is the basic fixed Paternoster rig. It consists of a sinker tied or looped on to the very end of the line with one or more hooks attached above the sinker at various intervals using twisted dropper loops so they stand away from the main line and don’t tangle.

The use of a dropper loop to attach hooks is an easy rig to prepare and strong enough for most fishing situations.

Using a swivel or ring as a tie off point results in the strongest possible rig of this type and is preferred by many fishers.

1.

2.

3.

1. The simplest rig features a small ball sinker running to the hook but there is no provision for a heavier leader.

2. A conventional running sinker features a swivel or ring as a sinker stop above the hook and allows a leader to be tied on below the swivel or ring.

3. The EzyRig illustrated is threaded on to line just like a sinker but the clip allows light sinkers to be swapped for heavier and vice versa.

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50Running floats - Bobby cork rig.Running floats such as a Bobby Cork rig have a hole through their centres just like a running sinker. In effect, they are used to present bait at a deeper depth than the length of drop which can be cast using a fixed float.

When casting out the baited hooks sink to the depth pre-determined by the position of the lower ball or bean sinker on the line, whether that is 2 metres or 10 metres and below the top stopper after casting

The Waggler float.Waggler floats are by far the most diverse float design and can be used for almost all forms of fishing. The straight design of wagglers provides good buoyancy and excellent visibility at their tip.

Depending on the situation a waggler can be fixed in one spot or left free to slide up and down the line. Straight wagglers as shown here are fixed to the line with two locking shot. Extra shot is added down the line for balance so that only the tip will appear above the surface.

Fixed stem floats. Stem floats consist of a thin stem with a bulbous body for added buoyancy. Most have a plastic or rubber sleeve which positions over the top of the stem to fix the float in position on the line. Steps to follow in rigging a fixed stem float are:

Remove the sleeve from the stem and pass the line through it and then through the line guide at the stem base.

When the required length of line has been passed through the guides, slide the sleeve back into position to fix the float on the line.

With the float in position, tie on the hook and weight the line with enough split shot to keep it in an upright position in the water.

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common saltwater baits. Using fresh, natural bait is one of the easiest ways to ensure you can catch fish. Bait should be secured on a hook but with sufficient point exposed to hook fish.

Weed can be used by forming a simple snell on the hook shank, threading the weed through the loop and braiding it down the shank. Secure by tying around the curve of the hook.

Saltwater Nippers are best when hooked through the tail.

Saltwater Nippers

Weed

Pass the hook right up through the bend in the tail as shown in (A) or hook through the tail (B).

Prawns

A

B

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53PERMiTTEd METhodS ANd AcTiViTiESFishing rules apply to help ensure healthy and sustainable fisheries for future generations. Abiding by the rules will help preserve our saltwater recreational fisheries. Plan your activity well in advance and ask about restrictions or closed areas at your local NSW DPI fisheries office. Different rules apply for freshwater fishing and you should refer to the NSW DPI Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide.

All fin fish and invertebrates such as crabs, prawns, worms, nippers and squid are subject to bag limits and many are also subject to size limits. See bag and size limit section (pages 65-79) for details.

Recreational Equipment and MaximumPermitted Number per Person:

Rods or lines: 4 rods or handlines in total.

hooks per line: 3 hooks or three gangs of hooks*.

Rod/hand jigging line: 1 rod or handline with up to 6 single hooks with lures attached#.

Bait trap: 1 trap.

hoop net or witches hat: 5 nets.

crab trap: 1 trap.

Lobster trap: 1 trap.

Spanner crab net: 1 net.

hand hauled prawn net: 1 net.

Scissors (Push) net: 1 net.

dip or scoop net: 1 net.

Spear/spear gun: –

Note: The table provides a maximum of each gear type

permitted per person in use or in possession at any time. All the specified recreational fishing equipment has additional restrictions and requirements that must be adhered to. Specific gear requirements are also provided in this section.* A gang of hooks should have no more than 5 hooks. No more than 3 trebles attached to a lure.# This gear must be used by the method of hand jigging only. This line is included in the total number of lines permitted as given above

Line fishing

n A maximum of four rods or lines can be used by any one person at any one time.

n If any rods or lines are left unattended, they must be clearly marked with the fisher’s name and address or name and boat registration number.

n A maximum of three hooks or three gangs of hooks can be attached per line. A gang of hooks should have no more than five hooks.

n One line may have up to six single hooks with a lure attached to each. This line is to be used for jigging only and cannot be left unattended.

n A maximum of three treble hooks can be attached to a lure.

Bait trap

n You can only use or have in your possession one trap at any time.

n The maximum dimensions of a bait trap are 450mm length x 350mm diameter with entrance funnel no larger than 60mm in diameter.

n The trap must have a tag attached to a part of the trap which is at or above water level with dimensions not less than 80mm x 45mm, with initials BT, the name and address of the person who sets, uses or lifts the trap, all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour contrasting to the tag.

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54handn Hand picking may be used to take fish.

Gloves are permitted.

Knifen A single blade knife with a blade longer

than it is wide may be used to help gather invertebrates.

Pliersn Pliers may be used to help gather

invertebrates except on rock platforms.

hand (Nipper) pumpn Hand (Nipper) pumps are commonly used

to collect Saltwater Nippers.n Barrel diameter not more than 85mm.

Landing netn May only be used as an ancillary aid for

retrieval of fish caught when line fishing.

hoop nets and witches hatsn Not more than five nets are to be used (or

in possession) by any one person at any one time.

n No more than two hoops per net (no rigid frame between them).

n Diameter of hoops should be no greater than 1.25 metres.

n Mesh size cannot be less than 13mm measured on the diagonal.

n Drop (length of net) cannot be more than 1 metre.

n A float/buoy to be labelled with HN and the name and address of the person who

1.25m

HN

13mm

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55sets, uses or lifts the fishing gear. The float being at least 100mm in diameter and 50mm above the water with all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour contrasting to the buoy.

n Hoop nets or lift nets must not have any rope floating on the surface of the water.

n The net must be dropped and raised vertically through the water by hand.

n The net must not be used in ocean waters.n Any rocklobsters or fin fish which are

subject to a size limit must be immediately returned to the water unharmed if caught.

n The same rules apply for witches hats as for hoop nets.

n Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

n Check your hoop nets / witches hats regularly. Reducing set time for any fishing gear reduces the chances of harm to accidentally caught aquatic animals such as platypus and turtles.

n When fishing with nets towards the upper reaches of an estuary there is a higher risk of interacting with platypus. Please be extra vigilant, check nets regularly and consider moving gear further downstream.

Spanner crab netn Not more than one spanner crab net can

be used (or in possession) by any person at any one time.

n Net must be attached to a rigid frame not exceeding 1.6 metres in length and 1 metre width.

n Net must not be capable of extending more than 0.1 metre beneath the frame when the frame is suspended in a horizontal position.

n The net must be lowered and raised through the water only by hand.

n The net can only be used for taking of Spanner Crabs.

n May only be used in ocean waters north of Korogoro Point (Hat Head).

n A float/buoy to be labelled with SN and the name and address of the person who sets, uses or lifts the fishing gear. The float being at least 100mm in diameter and 50mm above the water with all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour contrasting to the buoy. There must also be a 50 gram weight attached no less than one metre below the buoy so that no rope/line is floating on the surface of the water.

crab trapn Not more than 1 trap to be used (or in

possession) by any person at any one time.n Maximum dimensions – 1.2 metres length

x 1 metre width x 0.5 metre depth or has a diameter not exceeding 1.6 metres at the top or bottom.

n Minimum mesh size 50mm.

1m

0.1m

1.6m

0.5m

1.2m

1m

No more than four entrances

50mm

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56n No more than 4 entrances (none of which

are on the top of the trap).n A float/buoy to be labelled with CT and

the name and address of the person who sets, uses or lifts the fishing gear. The float being at least 100mm in diameter and 50mm above the water with all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour contrasting to the buoy. There must also be a 50 gram weight attached no less than one metre below the buoy so that no rope/line is floating on the surface of the water.

n Must not be made of entanglement material.

n Must not be set to impede the free passage of fish (2 traps cannot be set closer than 3 metres apart).

n Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

n Check your crab trap regularly. Reducing set time for any fishing gear reduces the chances of harm to accidentally caught aquatic animals such as platypus and turtles.

n When fishing a crab trap towards the upper reaches of an estuary there is a higher risk of interacting with platypus. Please be extra vigilant, check your trap regularly and consider moving gear further downstream.

n Only crabs can be taken with this trap.n Crab traps must not be used in inland or

ocean waters.

Lobster trapn Not more than one trap is to be used (or in

possession) by any person at any time.n The base or floor of the trap may be either

rectangular or circular. Rectangular not exceeding 1.2 metres by 1.2 metres. Circular not exceeding 1.2 metres in diameter.

n A float/buoy to be labelled with LT and the name and address of the person who sets, uses or lifts the fishing gear. The float being at least 100mm in diameter and 50mm above the water with all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour

contrasting to the buoy. There must also be a 50 gram weight attached no less than one metre below the buoy so that no rope/line is floating on the surface of the water.

n Escape gaps are required. Either: One gap not less than 57mm high x 500mm wide; or two gaps not less than 57mm wide x 250mm wide; or three gaps not less than 57mm high x 200mm wide so that no part of any escape gap is more than 12cm above the floor of the trap.

n Lobster traps must not be used in inland waters or any waters more than 10m deep (contour).

n Only rocklobsters can be taken with this trap.

n Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

Prawn netsHand hauled netn Maximum length 6 metres.n Mesh size between 30mm-36mm

measured across the diagonal.n Must not be staked or set, or joined or

placed with any other net.n Must be continuously and manually pulled

through the water and not used as a stationary net.

1.2m

Escape Gap

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57n Scissors (Push) nets must not be used in

inland waters.

dip or Scoop net – Prawnsn Maximum diameter

of hoop or ring 0.6 metres.n Minimum mesh size 20mm measured

across the diagonal. n Drop (length of net) no more than 1.25

metres.n Must be used by hand and not staked or

set.n Must not be joined or placed with any

other net.n Any fish caught while fishing for prawns

may be kept, however, bag and size limits apply.

n Dip or Scoop nets must not be used in inland waters.

diving and spearfishingn You may only use a hand or gloved hand to

take lobster when snorkelling (ie no tools - implements).

n You may use spear/spear gun with snorkel equipment to take fish in NSW waters.

n You may use SCUBA or hookah apparatus to take scallops and sea urchins only.

n For more information on spearfishing in NSW including closed areas, download the factsheet at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/publications.

Note: Speargun includes spear, bow and arrow or other similar devices.

2.75m

n The net may be attached to up to 2 hauling lines that are not more than 2 metres in length each.

n Any fish caught which are subject to a size limit must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.

n Hand hauled prawn nets must not be used in inland waters.

Scissors (Push net) – Prawns

n Must be attached to a scissor-type frame.n Length of the lead or bottom line between

the ends of poles must be no longer than 2.75 metres.

n Mesh size between 30mm-36mm measured across the diagonal.

n Must not be staked or set, or joined or placed with any other net.

n Must be continuously and manually pulled through the water and not used as a stationary net.

n Must be operated by one person only.n Only one net per person is permitted at

any time.n Any fish caught which are subject to a size

limit must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.

30-36mm

6m

30-36mm

0.6m

20mm

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SPRohiBiTEd METhodS ANd AcTiViTiESgeneralYou are not permitted to:n Fish in waters that are closed to fishing.

Check website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au for details.

n Use any methods/gear to take fish or invertebrates that are not specified in the permitted methods section.

n Take or be in possession of fish or invertebrates in excess of bag limit or of a size outside the legal size limits. All prohibited size fish must be released immediately and unharmed.

n Hold prohibited size fish or fish in excess of the legal bag limit in a live well or use them for bait even if they are injured or dead on capture (e.g. undersize fish such as Tailor). If you have purchased fish or bait from a commercial vendor, retain the receipt to present to a NSW DPI Fisheries Officer.

n Take, attempt to take, harm or be in possession of threatened or protected species.

n Use a chemical or explosive device to take or assist to take fish.

n Use a cast net in NSW waters.n Possess excess fishing gear in, on or

adjacent to waters.n Alter the length of a fish or invertebrate

by filleting/shucking and/or removing the head/shell/tail until well away from the water. This rule does not apply at areas normally used for cleaning fish such as boat ramp cleaning tables; if the fish are for immediate consumption or immediate use as bait; or for fish that do not have a legal length. You may clean fish by gilling and gutting.

n Remove the fins of sharks while at sea.n Sell any recreational catch.n Interfere with commercial fishers or fishing

gear.

Line fishingYou are not permitted to:n Carry excess fishing lines in, on or adjacent

to waters. Spare lines should not be rigged and should be properly stowed.

n Jag fish (hooking or attempting to hook

fish other than through the mouth).n Use drift lines. Lines must be held in the

hand or fixed to a boat or the shore.n Use abalone gut as bait. This is due to the

AVG virus (see page 89)

invertebratesYou are not permitted to:n Use hammers, mattocks, chisels, crowbars,

dredges or other instruments not specified in the permitted methods section.

n Retain lobsters or crabs carrying eggs. They must be returned to the water. It is an offence to remove any eggs.

n Retain any rocklobsters caught whilst line fishing.

n Collect invertebrates within intertidal protected areas such as Sydney Harbour and some zones within aquatic reserves and marine parks.

n Collect octopus from ocean rock platforms or from rock platforms in Sydney Harbour.

n Alter the length of an invertebrate by shucking and/or removing the head/shell/tail until well away from the water. This rule does not apply at areas normally used for cleaning fish such as boat ramp cleaning tables or if the invertebrates are for immediate consumption or immediate use as bait; or do not have a legal length.

n Use a spear/speargun to take crabs from intertidal rock platforms.

n Take pipis, except for use as bait. Pipis can not be taken more than 50m from the high tide water mark.

SpearfishingYou are not permitted to:n Use a spear/spear gun to take Blue, Brown

or Red Groper.n Take fish with a spear/spear gun whilst

using a light.n Spearfish on ocean beaches (except the

last 20 metres at each end of the beach).n Spearfish using SCUBA apparatus.

Please note: Many entrances, coastal lagoonsand other tidal waters are closed to spearfishing. For more information on spearfishing in NSW visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

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Fin fishTo determine the legal length of a fish, the fish is measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail – this is also known as the total length.

Abalone Abalone are measured along a straight line at the widest point of the shell.

crabCrabs, except Spanner Crabs, are measured along the body from the notch between the two most protruding frontal teeth to the centre of the posterior margin of the carapace or shell.

Spanner crabSpanner Crabs are measured along the body from the base of the orbital notch (eye socket) to the centre of the posterior margin of the carapace.

legal length/total length

measurement

carapace

measurement carapace

measurement

measurement

Spanner crabcarapace

hoW To MEASuRE FiN FiSh ANd iNVERTEBRATES

RocklobsterRocklobsters are measured along the length of the carapace or head, along a straight line from the point of the union of the second antennae or large feelers to the centre of the back edge of the carapace, ignoring any attached hairs.

Measuring devices for abalone, rocklobster and crabs are available from NSW DPI fisheries offices.

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Some families of fish have a number of different species which can make identification difficult. It is important to know exactly what fish you catch as different regulations may apply to different species. Various reference books are available which clearly outline the defining characteristics of fishes.

Some species look quite similar. The following tips have been prepared to help identify characteristics of various fish species.

Australian Bass

dusky Flathead Tiger Flathead

Estuary Perch

Dark olive/grey/green on back fading to off-white or

yellowish white below.

Snout length shorter than Estuary Perch.

Snout profile – concave.

High first dorsal fin.

Black spot at base of pectoral fin.

Dark bars often visible across rear of body.

Tail – lines of orange/brown spots on upper half.

Snout tapered and elongated (longer than bass).

All fins dark.Pelvic fin white at leading margin.

Snout profile – slightly concave to straight.

Dark grey and silvery on back, paler below.

Tail – distinctive black spot at caudal end over a brown/grey speckled background

Light brown to orange/brown with spots on upper body. Particularly large teeth on the roof of the mouth.

Uniform body colour, no bars or

blotches.

Yellow ventral and anal fins.

Bluespotted Flathead(Sand Flathead)

Mottled brown with small, widely spaced

blue spots.

Tail – lower half has 3-5 irregular dark blotches.

Sand Whiting

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yellowfin Bream

Longfin Eel

Mulloway Teraglin

Southern Shortfin Eel

Tarwhine

Body colour varies from silver to bronzy green.

Dorsal fin extends markedly forward of anal fin.

Dark spot above pectoral fin

Tail profile – rounded (convex)

Tail profile – slightly forked (concave)

Uniform olive/green to brown colour, distinctly blotched or mottled.

Uniform olive/green to brown colour, no distinctive markings.

Dorsal fin extends a little forward of anal fin.

Underside profile of head continued as almost straight line to the anus.

Head more rounded and snout not as pointed as that of Bream.

Ventral and anal fins canary yellow, particularly the spines.

Prominent golden lines on head and body with background colour silver.

See the bag and size limits which apply to these species in the following Fin Fish Bag and Size Limits Section (pages 65-75).

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65FiN FiSh BAg LiMiTS, SizE LiMiTS ANd cLoSEd SEASoNSThe following information is current at time of printing but some bag and size limits may change over time. It is the responsibility of fishers to ensure they are acting within the law at all times. A maximum daily bag limit of 20 applies to any species not listed below.Explanation of termsBag limit: The maximum number of fish or invertebrates per person in possession. Figure plus asterix (*) denotes limit comprised of any single species or a combination of listed grouped species.Legal length: The minimum length of a fish unless otherwise stated. A fish which does not reach this minimum length must be immediately returned to the water (see Responsible Fishing section pages 20-29 for more information). Some species have maximum length restrictions to protect larger breeding females. See page 61 for how to measure fish.Possession limit: The maximum number of fish a person is allowed to have in their possession at any one time. For all saltwater species the daily bag limit is also the possession limit.Retained fish: All retained fish should be dispatched swiftly and humanely.

Note: You must not alter the length of a fish with a legal size limit by filleting or removing the head or tail until well away from the water or at a fish cleaning facility. You may only gill, gut and scale fish.

Australian Bass and Estuary Perch

Legal length: Only 1 over 35cm.Bag limit: 2 in total*, 4 in possession. closure: Zero bag limit for Australian Bass and Estuary Perch in rivers and estuaries from 1 June to 31 August each year.Any Australian Bass or Estuary Perch caught during this period must be immediately returned to the water unharmed.habitat: Bass migrate to saltwater to breed during the winter months. Estuary Perch live in estuaries and inlets, and are most prevalent in waters south of Sydney.good baits: Bass and perch feed aggressively on insects, small fish, crustaceans and worms. Both species respond well to artificial flies and lures.

Australian Salmon

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 5.habitat: Beaches, rocky headlands, inshore reefs, bays, inlets.good baits: Baitfish, beach worms, pipis. An aggressive, schooling fish known for its sporting prowess. Salmon are a regular catch by beach fishermen using pilchards and lures.

Estuary Perch

Australian Bass

Why have bag and size limits?Regulations apply to help ensure healthy and sustainable fisheries for future generations. Size limits aim to allow fish to reach maturity and complete their breeding cycle, while bag limits help make sure everyone gets a fair share of the resource and species are not overfished. Abiding by the regulations will help maintain our saltwater recreational fisheries.

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66Bluefish

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 0 – release only. Prohibited catch in all NSW waters other than Lord Howe Island Marine Park.Lord Howe Island Marine Park: 5.habitat: Coastal and offshore rocky reefs.

Bonito

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 10.habitat: Coastal waters, bays and lower estuaries.good baits: Pilchards, squid, small live fish or artificial lures.

Bream and Tarwhine

Legal length: Black, Yellowfin Bream 25cm.Tarwhine 20cm. Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: Black or Southern Bream: Creeks and estuary systems, especially in the southern half of NSW. Will tolerate brackish or even fresh water. Yellowfin or Silver Bream: Rivers, estuaries, beaches, rocky headlands, inshore reefs.Tarwhine: Favours estuaries, rocky reefs and beaches. Often found with Yellowfin Bream.good baits: Crustaceans, molluscs, marine worms, small baitfish. Live prawns are a great bait for bream. Will also respond to small minnow lures and soft plastics.

cobia

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5. habitat: Usually found on offshore reefs but is known to frequent inshore reefs, headlands and bays.good baits: Live bait such as yellowtail or slimy mackerel, squid or fish strips.

Yellowfin Bream

Black Bream

Tarwhine

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67deep-Sea Fish: hapuku (hapuka), Banded Rock cod (Bar cod), Bass groper, gemfish, Blue-Eye Trevalla (cod)

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 5 in total*, Gemfish: only 2 and boat trip limit of 10.habitat: Deep offshore waters, usually on or over the continental shelf.good baits: Squid, oily fish such as tuna or mackerel.

Eastern Red Scorpionfish (Red Rock cod)

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Inshore and offshore reefs.good baits: Pilchards, prawns, squid or fish strips.

Eel: Southern Shortfin and Longfin

Legal length: Southern Shortfin Eel 30cm. Longfin Eel 58cm.Bag limit: 10 of each species.habitat: Estuaries, rivers and brackish water zones.good baits: Molluscs, marine worms.

Flathead

Legal length: Dusky (Common) Flathead 36cm. Only 1 over 70cm. Bluespotted and Tiger Flathead 33cm.Bag limit: Dusky (Common) Flathead 10.All other Flathead species 20 in total*.habitat: Coastal rivers, estuaries, lakes, inlets, beaches and offshore areas.good baits: Baitfish (live poddy mullet are a great bait), crustaceans, marine worms and fish strips. A common catch on diving lures, flies and soft plastics.

Bass GroperBlue-Eye TrevallaGemfish

Longfin Eel

Southern Shortfin Eel

Dusky Flathead

Bluespotted Flathead

Tiger Flathead

Hapuku

Banded Rock Cod

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68Flounders and Soles

Legal length: Flounder 25cm. Sole none.Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: Inshore coastal and estuarine waters.good baits: Worms, pipis, prawns, pilchards or fish strips.

Note: Flounder have a distinct tail. Sole have a single fin around their body.

garfish: Eastern Sea

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 20.habitat: Found in shallow coastal areas, large bays and estuaries.good baits: Bread, pipis and worms.

groper: Blue, Red/Brown

Legal length: 30cm. Only 1 over 60cm.Bag limit: 2 by line only.habitat: Rocky headlands and inshore reefs.good baits: Red rock crabs, cunjevoi.

Blue Groper, (male)

Red/Brown Groper, (female)

Flounder

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69hairtail

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 10.habitat: Deep water regions in estuaries, especially in the Hawkesbury River north of Sydney.good baits: Live yellowtail or slimy mackerel, ganged pilchards. Hairtail tend to fish best at night.

Leatherjackets

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: Tidal rivers, bays, inlets and over reefs extending offshore.good baits: Prawns, squid, pilchards and fish strips.

Luderick (Blackfish)

Legal length: 27cm. Bag limit: 20.habitat: Rocky headlands, coastal rivers and estuary systems.good baits: Marine weeds (green weed and cabbage), bread, cunjevoi and marine worms.

Mackerel: Spanish and Spotted

Legal length: Spanish 75cm, Spotted 60cm.Bag limit: 5 in total*.habitat: Offshore reef systems, bays, rocky headlands. Largely restricted to northern NSW waters during the summer season.good baits: Live slimy mackerel, yellowtail and tuna, pilchards and other oily fish. Also respond well to cast and trolled minnow and skirted lures. Sharp teeth require the use of wire leaders.

Mahi Mahi (dolphinfish)

Legal length: 60cm. Only 1 over 110cm. Bag limit: 10.habitat: Oceanic waters. Commonly found around floating objects such as buoys, driftwood and seaweed.good baits: Pilchards, fish strips, live fish or artificial lures.

Spanish Mackerel

Spotted Mackerel

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70Mangrove Jack

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Mangroves and rocky structure in estuaries and rivers. Migrate to offshore reefs when mature. Largely restricted to northern NSW waters although an occasional capture around Sydney.good baits: Live mullet, yellowtail or prawns. Oily fish such as tuna and mullet. Also takes cast and trolled deep-diving lures.

Marlin: Striped, Black and Blue

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 1 of each species.habitat: Offshore, usually around or over the continental shelf although Black Marlin will come much closer inshore.good baits: Live or dead slimy mackerel, yellowtail or tuna. All species will also respond well to trolled skirted lures.

Morwong: Jackass and grey (Rubberlip)

Legal length: 30cm.Bag limit: 10 of each species.habitat: Inshore/offshore reef systems. Common over areas where rock and sand mix.good baits: Prawns, squid and fish strips.

Morwong: Red

Legal length: 30cm. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Inshore reef systems.good baits: Prawns, squid and fish strips.

Grey Morwong

JackassMorwong

Blue Marlin

Striped Marlin

Black Marlin

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71Morwong: Banded

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Inshore/offshore reef systems.good baits: Prawns, squid.

Moses Snapper (Moses Perch)

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 5.habitat: Around rocks, mangroves, piers and wharves in estuary systems, generally restricted to northern NSW waters.good baits: Crustaceans, oily fish such as tuna or mullet. Also responds aggressively to small minnow lures and soft plastics.

Mullet

Legal length: 30cm Sea (Bully) only. Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: Rivers and estuary systems. Migrates annually along coastline.good baits: Bread, peeled prawns, marine worms.

Mullet: Juvenile (for live bait only)

Legal length: Under 15cm Sea (Bully) only.Bag limit: 20 in total* for live bait only.habitat: Sand flats and weed beds in rivers and estuary systems.good baits: Bread with fine line and small hooks, although can be caught in bait traps.

Mulloway (Jewfish)

Legal length: 45cm. Only 2 over 70cm.Bag limit: 5.habitat: Rivers/estuary systems, beaches, rocky headlands, inshore reefs.good baits: Live squid, beach worms, mullet, baitfish and oily fish such as tuna.

Pearl Perch

Legal length: 30cm. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Frequents deep offshore waters around reefs. Most common in northern NSW waters.good baits: Squid, baitfish, prawns.

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72Rock Blackfish (Black drummer)

Legal length: 30cm. Bag limit: 10.habitat: Reefy areas, rocky points and headlands.good baits: Cunjevoi, prawns, marine weeds, bread.

Sailfish

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 1.habitat: Offshore waters, often around some sort of reef or structure. Prefers warm sub-tropical waters.good baits: Garfish, small tunas. Often taken on rigged baits or artificial lures.

Samsonfish and Amberjack

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 5 in total*.habitat: Inshore and offshore reefs.good baits: Live fish, fish strips, squid and artificial lures.

Samsonfish

Amberjack

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73Sharks and Rays

Legal length: 91cm School Shark only.Bag limit: 5 in total*. Only 1 Tiger, Mako, Hammerhead# or Whaler/Blue Shark. 0 for Wobbegong, release only.# Only Smooth Hammerheads may be taken. Great and Scalloped Hammerheads are protected species in NSW and must be released immediately with minimal harm.habitat: Various species occupy a diverse range of habitats including estuaries, beaches, rocky reefs and open ocean. good baits: Most sharks and rays will respond to oily fish such as tuna.

Snapper

Legal length: 30cm. Bag limit: 10.habitat: Inshore and offshore reef systems. Rocky headlands and points. Smaller fish common in estuary systems and protected bays.good baits: Squid, fish, prawns, octopus.

Spearfish

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 1.habitat: Open ocean.good baits: A pelagic predator favouring similar foods as marlin and sailfish. Not common in NSW waters.

Australian Sawtail (Surgeonfish)

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Favours rocky reefs and areas of structure inside bays and harbours.good baits: Often caught as a by-catch by fishers targeting luderick on marine weeds.

Swordfish

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 1.habitat: Deep offshore waters.good baits: Most Swordfish are caught on squid fished deep on heavy tackle at night. An occasional capture on artificial lures.

Juvenile

Adult

School Shark

Wobbegong

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74Tailor

Legal length: 30cm. Bag limit: 20.habitat: Beaches, rocky headlands, estuaries, inshore reefs.good baits: Small baitfish such as pilchards and whitebait or oily fish such as tuna. Responds aggressively to metal lures and diving minnows.

Teraglin

Legal length: 38cm. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Inshore/offshore reefs.good baits: Squid, oily fish such as tuna, live slimy mackerel or yellowtail.

Trevallies

Legal length: 30cm for Silver Trevally only. Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: The most common trevally in NSW waters is the Silver Trevally, which favours inshore reefs, rocky areas and bays.good baits: Marine worms, prawns, squid and fish strips.

Tuna: Albacore, Big-Eye, Longtail, Southern Bluefin, yellowfin

Legal length: None (see below). Bag limit: 7 in total*#. Only 2 of 90cm or over and 5 under 90cmhabitat: Open ocean, sometimes found close inshore following schools of baitfish. good baits: Pilchards, slimy mackerel, yellowtail. Tuna also respond well to trolled skirted and diving lures.

#Please note: The rules relating to Southern Bluefin Tuna may change during the life of this publication. Check with your local NSW DPI fisheries office or www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

Silver Trevally

Big-Eye

Albacore

LongtailYellowfin

Southern Bluefin

undersize fish cannot be used as bait, they must be returned to the water immediately, even if they are injured or dead.

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75Wahoo

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 5habitat: Open ocean.good baits: Live slimy mackerel, small tunas. Wahoo also respond aggressively towards skirted or diving lures.

yellowtail Kingfish

Legal length: 65cm. Bag limit: 5.habitat: Inshore and offshore reefs, rocky headlands.good baits: Live squid/slimy mackerel/yellowtail, oily fish such as tuna. Kingfish respond well to cast and trolled lures and jigs.

Whiting

Legal length: 27cm for Sand Whiting only. Bag limit: 20 in total*.habitat: Beaches, estuaries, sandflats.good baits: Marine worms, crustaceans, saltwater nippers.

Baitfish Bag Limits (excluding charter boat operators)

Bag limit of 50 for each of the following: Australian Anchovy; Blue Sprat (Bluebait); Maray (Round Herring); Australian Sardine (Pilchard); Sandy Sprat (Whitebait); Blue Mackerel (Slimy Mackerel); Southern Herring.

A bag limit of 50 comprised of any single species or a combination of: Garfish (other than Eastern Sea Garfish); Hardyhead and Silverfish; Jack Mackerel and Yellowtail Scad.

Sand Whiting

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76iNVERTEBRATES BAg ANd SizE LiMiTSInvertebrates are creatures without a backbone and include crustaceans (eg crabs, lobsters), molluscs (eg scallops, mussels, squid) and worms. Please note that you must pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee to catch or collect invertebrates. A maximum daily bag limit of 20 applies to any invertebrate not listed below (excluding molluscs which have a combined bag limit of 20 in total*). Bag limit: Figure plus asterix (*) denotes limit comprised of any single species or a combination of listed grouped species.

Note: You must not alter the length of an invertebrate with a legal size by shucking and/or removing the head/shell/tail until well away from the water.

Abalone

Legal length: 11.7cm. Bag limit: 2.Abalone should be measured as soon as collected, before being put in a catch bag and before leaving the water. You must not shuck (remove the meat from the shell) in, on or adjacent to the water so your catch may be measured if necessary.Note: To allow abalone stocks to recover following outbreaks of the aquatic parasite Perkinsis olseni, abalone can only be taken between Port Stephens and Wreck Bay Beach (Jervis Bay) on weekends and adjacent NSW public holidays. The parasite is not harmful to humans but has been a key factor in the decline of abalone stocks in these waters over recent decades. Heavy penalties apply for closure breaches.

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77Balmain Bug

Legal length: 10cm. Carapace measured from spike to spike at its widest point. Bag limit: 20.

Beach Worms

Legal length: None Bag limit: 20 in whole or part*.

other Worm species

Legal length: None Bag limit: 100 in total*.

cockles, Mussels and Pipis (Pipis for bait only)

Legal length: None Bag limit: 50 in total*.Note: You cannot take Pipis to eat or remove them more than 50m from the high tide mark.

PipiMussel

Cockle

crabs

Note: Crabs carrying eggs must be returned immediately to the water. It is an offence to

remove any eggs.

All other crabsLegal length: None.Bag limit: 10 in total*.

Mud (Black/Mangrove) crabsLegal length: 8.5cm.Bag limit: 5.

Spanner crabsLegal length: 9.3cm.Bag limit: 10.

Soldier crabsLegal length: None.Bag limit: 100 in total*.

Blue Swimmer crabs Legal length: 6cm.Bag limit: 20.

measurement

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78cunjevoi

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 20 in total*.

Lobsters

Eastern RocklobsterLegal length: Min 10.4cm, Max 18cm. Bag limit: 2 in total (with Southern Rocklobster).In any combination. colour: Green.

Southern Rocklobster

Eastern Rocklobster

Tropical Rocklobster (ornate and Painted)Legal length: None. Bag limit: 2 in total*.Colour: Legs and antennae: Mottled black and white. Body: Various bright multi combinations.

Southern Rocklobster (Male) Legal length: 11cm. Bag limit: 2 in total (with Eastern Rocklobster). In any combination. colour: Red.

Southern Rocklobster (Female) Legal length: 10.5cm. Bag limit: 2 in total (with Eastern Rocklobster). In any combination. colour: Red.

Slipper Lobster (Flat)Legal length: None.Bag limit: 2. colour: Beige/grey.

Note: Lobsters may be taken by hand or in a lobster trap (1 trap per person), but not with a hook, spear or snare. Lobsters or crabs carrying eggs must be returned immediately to the water. It is an offence to remove any eggs.

Note: You must not alter the length of an invertebrate with a legal size by shucking and/or removing the head/shell/tail until well away from the water

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79octopus

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 10 in total*.Note: Octopus cannot be taken from ocean rock platforms in NSW or from rock platforms in Sydney Harbour.

oysters: Sydney Rock, Pacific, Native

Legal length: None. Bag limit: 50 in total*.

Note: Removal of oysters from an oyster lease is theft and attracts heavy fines.Warning: Oysters and mussels may be contaminated through either pollution or naturally occurring algae. Eating contaminated shellfish can cause serious illness or death. Commercially grown oysters are harvested under strict guidelines to safeguard public health. See pages 41-42.

Prawns

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 10 litres in total*.

Saltwater Nippers

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 100 in total*.

Scallops

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 50 in total*.

Sea urchins

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 10 in total*.

Squid and cuttlefish

Legal length: None.Bag limit: 20 in total*.

Turban Snails and other molluscs

Legal length: Sydney, Military 7.5cm. Diameter measured along its longest axis. All other molluscs none.Bag limit: Sydney, Military 20 in total*.All other molluscs 20 in total* including Turban Snails.

Turban Snail

measurement

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ThREATENEd ANd PRoTEcTEd SPEciESA threatened species is rare with numbers declining to a point where it is at risk of becoming extinct in NSW. Other rare species with stable numbers are protected. It is illegal to take, harm or possess threatened or protected species. If caught they must be returned carefully to the water. It is also illegal to damage the habitat of a threatened species.

You can keep up to date with threatened or protected species listings on the website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au. Help increase knowledge of these species by reporting sightings on 02 4916 3877; e-mail fisheries.threatenedspecies@dpi.nsw.gov.au or online at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

ThREATENEd SPEciES

Black cod Epinephelus daemelii

conservation Status: Vulnerable species.This magnificent but timid creature is territorial, living for years in the same deep cave or ledge. Black Cod are found along the entire NSW coast and also occur in estuaries. Growing to 1.5m and weighing over 80kg, it has a distinctive black blotch on the upper caudal peduncle.

great White Shark Carcharodon carcharias

conservation Status: Vulnerable species.Found throughout the world in temperate and subtropical oceans. Great White Sharks can grow to an estimated 6m.

green Sawfish Pristis zijsron

conservation Status: Presumed extinct.A large ray with a long studded snout or ‘saw’. Lives in estuaries and shallow coastal waters around south-east Asia and northern Australia. Numbers reduced by fishing and accidental capture by prawn trawlers. Grows to at least 5m. Now extremely rare and presumed extinct in NSW.

grey Nurse Shark Carcharias taurus

conservation Status: Critically endangered species. Grey Nurse Shark inhabit inshore waters and aggregate in sandy gutters around rocky outcrops, bomboras and reefs along the coast. Grows to 3.5m.

To see how you can help protect the grey nurse shark - refer to the section on fishing and diving rules in their key habitat areas (pages 84-85).

Southern Bluefin Tuna Thunnus maccoyii

conservation Status: Endangered species.Pleagic species found in deep offshore waters. Grows to 2.4m. Limited recreational fishing is allowed (see page 74). The rules relating to Southern Bluefin Tuna may change during the life of this publication. Check with your local NSW DPI fisheries office or www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

Colour Variations of Black Cod

Caudal Peduncle

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Ballina Angelfish Haetodontoplus ballinae

Found in very deep water in the north and around Lord Howe Island. Grows to 20cm.

Eastern Blue devil Fish Paraplesiops bleekeri

Inhabiting caves and ledges in about 15-20m of water along the southern NSW coast (has been seen as far north as the Solitary Islands Marine Park). Grows to 40cm.

Elegant Wrasse Anampses elegans

Found around Lord Howe Island, occasionally along the NSW coast south to Montague Island. Grows to 30cm.

Estuary cod Epinephelus coioides

Found mainly in the reefy inshore waters and estuaries of northern NSW. Growing to 2m and weighing over 225kg.

giant Queensland groper Epinephelus lanceolatus

Bold and curious, they can be hand-fed by divers. Found in northern NSW waters. Growing to 2m and weighing over 250kg.

herbsts Nurse Shark Odontaspis ferox

Related to the Grey Nurse Shark. It inhabits deeper waters, up to 420m and is found along the entire coast. Grows to 3.6m.

Female

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Syngnathiformes Syngnathids, Solenostomids and Pegasids

Seahorses, Pipefish, Pipehorses and Seadragons belong to the Syngnathidae family and together with their close relatives, the Ghost Pipefish and Seamoths, are called Syngnathiformes. All Syngnathiformes are protected.

Bluefish Girella cyanea

This fish inhabits coastal and offshore rocky reefs. It is bright blue with small yellow dots and grows to about 75cm length. The taking or possessing of Bluefish from NSW waters other than the waters of the Lord Howe Island Marine Park is prohibited and heavy penalties apply.

help protect these species by reporting sitings on 02 4916 3877: email fisheries.threatenedspecies@dpi.nsw.gov.au or online at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au

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84Fishing and diving rules to help protect the grey Nurse SharkGrey Nurse Sharks roam over very large areas of the NSW coast, but are known to gather to feed, mate and pup at a small number of locations. Marine scientists have identified ten sites, called critical habitats, which are vital to the survival of the Grey Nurse Shark. Critical habitats are defined as areas 200 metres out from the relevant natural feature such as an island or a part of the coastline with an additional 800 metre buffer zone. Some Grey Nurse Shark critical habitats are located in marine parks and recreational fishers should consult the relevant marine park zoning plan to check the fishing rules and regulations.

A detailed guide to recreational fishing and diving rules at each of the aggregation sites has been prepared and is available from the NSW DPI website at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au. A copy of the guide can also be obtained from NSW DPI fisheries offices, Fishcare Volunteers and licence agents.

identifying a grey Nurse SharkIt is illegal to harm a Grey Nurse Shark – so it is important fishers and divers can distinguish Grey Nurse Sharks from other sharks. The Grey Nurse Shark’s most distinctive feature is the similarity in size of the two upper dorsal fins.

Bronze colour. Paler undersurface. Brownish spots on the upper body and tail fin.

1st dorsal fin set well back from the pectoral fin.

Two upper dorsal fins of almost equal size.

2nd dorsal fin set well forward of the anal fin.

Top lobe larger than

bottom.

Anal fin similar in sizeTo both dorsal fins.

PELVIC FIN

PECTORAL FIN

5 GILL SLITS

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Barrenjoey Head

Narrabeen Head

Long Reef

Cabbage Tree BayNorth (Sydney) Harbour

Bronte - Coogee

Manly

Towra PointCape Banks

Boat HarbourShiprock

Bungan Head

Dee Why HeadlandShelly Beach Headland

Sydney Harbour

Bondi

Long Bay

Inscription Point

Cabbage Tree Point

Mona Vale Headland

Tweed-Moreton

Cape Byron Marine Park

Solitary Islands Marine Park

Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park

Lord Howe IslandMarine Park

Jevis BayMarine Park

Bioregion

Hawkesbury Bioregion

BatemansMarine Park

Cook Island

Bushrangers Bay

Twofold Bioregion

ByronBay

CoffsHarbour

Sydney

Eden

Marine Parks, Aquatic Reserves and Intertidal Protected Area Locations

Aquatic Reserves

Intertidal Protected Areas

MARiNE PRoTEcTEd AREASBiodiversityBiodiversity is the term used to describe the presence of many and varied biological life forms. Preventing the loss of aquatic biodiversity is key in keeping our waterways healthy and productive thus ensuring viable fisheries exist for future generations.

Marine parksMarine parks aim to conserve biodiversity by protecting representative samples of habitats and managing human impacts. The parks are managed by the NSW Marine Parks Authority. Zoning plans are used to guide the protection of conservation values and manage activities

that occur within each marine park.Fishers need to be aware of the activities

allowed in the marine parks system and should refer to the appropriate marine park zoning plan user guides before commencing fishing in NSW marine parks. Importantly, fishers should note that no fishing activities are allowed in marine park sanctuary zones.

You can enjoy recreational fishing in every NSW marine park!

In June 2011, the NSW Government commissioned an Independent Scientific Audit of Marine Parks in NSW. The Audit will play an important role in ensuring the right balance

SPEciAL RuLES ANd cLoSuRESMost of the state’s waters are available for recreational fishing. Some local waters, including marine parks and aquatic reserves, may have additional rules that apply to fishing. Plan your fishing trip well in advance and check whether the area is within a marine park or aquatic reserve, and check for other local rules. For up-to-date information contact your local NSW DPI fisheries office, marine parks office or check the websites www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au and www.mpa.nsw.gov.au.

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between sustainable use of the marine environment and conservation of marine biodiversity. The Independent Scientific Audit panel is due to finalise its audit report in January 2012. Information on the audit can be accessed from the Audit Panel's website (www.marineparksaudit.nsw.gov.au).

The Government has implemented a temporary moratorium on the declaration of new marine parks and sanctuary zones, on the alteration of existing sanctuary zones, and on reviewing marine park zoning plans, pending the outcome of the Audit. After the Government has publicly responded to the audit report, the moratorium may be lifted. Otherwise a 'sunset' clause means the moratorium will automatically expire in five years (in September 2016).

For information on marine parks or to obtain a copy of a marine park recreational user guide, visit your local marine parks office or check the website www.mpa.nsw.gov.au.

Aquatic reservesAquatic reserves are managed by NSW DPI. The reserves are relatively small zones based around areas of special environmental importance and are designed to conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation.

See map, on previous page, for the location of the 12 aquatic reserves in NSW coastal waters. Each aquatic reserve is unique and the level or type of protection varies greatly.

For more information on permitted and prohibited activities within each reserve check out the website at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

intertidal protected areasIntertidal protected areas preserve and protect intertidal animals and habitat as well as acting as reservoirs to re-populate other areas. See map, on previous page, for locations of the eight intertidal protected areas around Sydney. They extend from mean high water to 10m seaward beyond mean low water. You can fish in the areas but you cannot gather or collect seashore animals. These include crabs, snails, cunjevoi, octopus, sea urchins, anemones, pipis, cockles, mussels, oysters and saltwater nippers. For more information check our website www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

healthy and diverse fish habitat means more fishHealthy and diverse habitats mean healthy and diverse fish populations: A must if you want to catch fish. Habitats are those places were fish live, migrate to and from, feed and breed.

A large amount of fish habitats have been lost or degraded to the point where they no longer support native fish populations.

NSW DPI is working with many people and organisations to protect and rehabilitate fish habitat to improve fish stocks. Funding

intertidal Protected Area

Low Tide Level

intertidal zone at high tide

10 metresMean high tide mark

Mean low water mark

intertidal zone at low tide

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88support from the recreational fishing trusts has been provided to assist with this venture. Contact NSW DPI to find out how you can help and access funding.

Protecting biodiversity – tips to remember:n When over seagrass beds either drift fish or

place the anchor within a sand patch.

n If you cannot avoid motoring across shallow seagrass beds, trim your motor up high and travel slowly.

n Travelling at low speed near riverbanks prevents your boat wake from undermining them.

n When turning rocks to collect bait, put them back the way you found them.

n Tread carefully around shoreline vegetation such as mangroves, river oaks or saltmarsh plants.

n Snags are for fish, not for use as firewood.

n Take all rubbish home. Do not litter.

n Take care not to transport fish, water or weeds from one waterway to another.

n Aquarium fish should stay in an aquarium. Never release them into a waterway or a drain.

n Get your friends or local fishing club involved in restoring fish habitat and check out the website www.fishhabitatnetwork.com.au.

NSW DPI also regulates activities that impact on key fish habitat. If you see or suspect any illegal activities affecting fish habitat contact your local NSW DPI fisheries office or the hotline on 1800 043 536.

Watch out for:n Saltmarsh, mangroves or seagrasses being

damaged or destroyed.

n Drains being dug or other works taking place in wetlands.

n Machinery working in waterways.

n New bed or bank stabilisation works within a waterway.

n New waterfront structures such as jetties and boat ramps.

n Removal of in-stream native aquatic vegetation or snags (large woody debris).

n Dredging or removal of in-stream sediment, boulders, gravel beds, cobbles.

n Materials or fill being placed into a waterway (e.g. tyres, concrete, sediment etc.).

n Placing of permanent or temporary barriers to fish passage across a waterway (e.g. new waterway crossings, nets, silt fences, fill).

n Discharge of pollutants into waterways.

NSW DPI produces Newstreams, a free bi-monthly electronic newsletter to keep people up to date with aquatic habitat activities. To subscribe, e-mail newstreams@dpi.nsw.gov.au and register your contact details.

Fish killsA fish kill is defined as “any sudden and unexpected mass mortality of wild or cultured fish”. Fish kills are often very visible events which cause considerable interest and concern to the public and the media because they are often perceived to be the result of pollution or contamination of waters. In fact, there are many and varied causes of fish kills and a large proportion are due to natural events.

Fish kills in the wild should be reported to your local NSW DPI fisheries office (see pages 104-105) or call the NSW DPI hotline on 1800 043 536. If the fish kill is due to a suspected pollution event, contact the Office of Environment and Heritage on 131 555.

Pests and diseasesThe Aquatic Biosecurity Unit works on preventing the spread of diseases through controls on the movement of stock, organising responses to aquatic animal health emergencies, assisting industry to improve aquatic animal health management, conducting surveillance for key diseases including QX oyster disease and bass nodavirus, and researching disease effects and resistance.

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Marine pests present in NSW include Pacific Oysters, the alga Caulerpa taxifolia, European Green Crab, European Fan Worm and the New Zealand Screw Shell.

Potential marine pests to be on the lookout for in NSW include the Northern Pacific Seastar, Japanese Seaweed, Asian Date Mussel, Asian Green Mussel and Black Striped Mussel. Diseases can be introduced through imported fresh or frozen seafood products used as bait.

European green crabThe European Green Crab, also known as the Green Shore Crab, is a voracious predator that feeds on shellfish and other crabs. It is native to the Atlantic coast of Europe and northern Africa. However, the crab has been recorded in several NSW estuaries and lakes including Twofold Bay, Pambula Lake, Merimbula Lake, Wapengo Lake, Bermagui River and Clyde River. It is listed as a Class 1 noxious species in NSW prohibiting possession and sale of the species.

AVg: Ban of abalone gut as bait Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG) is caused by a herpes-like virus first detected in wild and farmed abalone in Victoria in 2005 where it has resulted in extensive abalone mortalities (Note: AVG has no impact on human health). AVG has also been identified in two abalone processing facilities in Tasmania. AVG affects the nervous system of abalone and symptoms include swollen mouthparts, curling of the foot, difficulty adhering to surfaces, lethargy and often death. Currently there is no indication of AVG in NSW, however, there is a high risk of transfer of AVG to NSW abalone stocks associated with the use of abalone gut as bait or berley. A fishing closure is currently in place in NSW banning the recreational and commercial use of abalone gut as bait or berley.

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90Caulerpa taxifoliaCaulerpa taxifolia is an invasive marine alga native to tropical waters including northern Australia and the South Pacific. It has been detected in 14 NSW estuaries and one oceanic location from Brisbane Waters (Central Coast) to Wallagoot Lake (Far South Coast). The quick-growing alga can alter marine habitats and can adversely impact native seagrass and fauna. New plants can grow from small pieces. Education, research, legislation and control measures are being used to manage this marine pest. Some areas are now closed to netting. Check with your local NSW DPI fisheries office before using nets other than a landing net in affected waterways.

Reporting:You can help protect our waterways and native fish by helping to stop the introduction and spread of aquatic pests and diseases into new areas by:n Reporting any suspect aquatic pest or disease

to your local NSW DPI fisheries office.

n Contact NSW DPI on 02 4916 3877 (recorded 24 hour service); e-mail aquatic.pests@dpi.nsw.gov.au or online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity.

n Take a photograph and send to NSW DPI.n If you are able to collect samples, keep

them cool but do not freeze them.n Check out the NSW DPI website for further

information.

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AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) LAT 33° 51’ LONG 151° 14’

TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS TIME ZONE –1000

JANUARY Time m Time m

1SU

0140 1.35 0736 0.71 1330 1.28 1957 0.55

16MO

0116 1.51 0725 0.53 1324 1.40 1940 0.42

2MO

0232 1.37 0844 0.73 1430 1.20 2046 0.58

17TU

0216 1.54 0840 0.55 1433 1.29 2040 0.47

3TU

0327 1.41 0957 0.71 1538 1.15 2140 0.59

18WE

0321 1.59 1000 0.52 1552 1.23 2145 0.49

4WE

0422 1.46 1105 0.65 1646 1.15 2233 0.59

19TH

0428 1.66 1116 0.44 1708 1.24 2249 0.48

5TH

0514 1.53 1201 0.57 1745 1.17 2322 0.57

20FR

0530 1.74 1221 0.35 1814 1.28 2349 0.45

6FR

0600 1.60 1247 0.49 1834 1.21

21SA

0628 1.82 1315 0.27 1909 1.33

7SA

0008 0.54 0643 1.67 1329 0.42 1917 1.25

22SU

0045 0.41 0720 1.87 1402 0.22 1958 1.38

8SU

0050 0.50 0724 1.74 1406 0.35 1958 1.29

23MO

0135 0.38 0808 1.89 1445 0.21 2042 1.42

9MO

0131 0.46 0803 1.80 1443 0.30 2037 1.33

24TU

0223 0.37 0851 1.86 1526 0.22 2124 1.44

10TU

0213 0.43 0843 1.83 1520 0.26 2117 1.37

25WE

0308 0.39 0932 1.80 1602 0.26 2204 1.44

11WE

0256 0.41 0924 1.84 1559 0.23 2200 1.41

26TH

0351 0.43 1011 1.71 1637 0.32 2244 1.44

12TH

0342 0.40 1005 1.82 1638 0.23 2244 1.44

27FR

0433 0.48 1046 1.60 1709 0.38 2321 1.43

13FR

0430 0.42 1049 1.75 1718 0.26 2330 1.46

28SA

0515 0.54 1122 1.48 1742 0.44

14SA

0522 0.45 1135 1.65 1801 0.30

29SU

0001 1.42 0601 0.60 1200 1.36 1815 0.51

15SU

0021 1.49 0619 0.49 1226 1.53 1848 0.36

30MO

0045 1.40 0652 0.66 1244 1.26 1855 0.57

31TU

0133 1.40 0753 0.70 1338 1.17 1945 0.62

FEBRUARY Time m Time m

1WE

0230 1.40 0907 0.71 1448 1.11 2045 0.65

16TH

0303 1.59 0956 0.50 1550 1.18 2131 0.58

2TH

0333 1.42 1024 0.67 1608 1.10 2151 0.65

17FR

0416 1.62 1110 0.45 1707 1.21 2243 0.55

3FR

0434 1.47 1129 0.60 1716 1.13 2251 0.62

18SA

0522 1.68 1211 0.39 1807 1.28 2345 0.50

4SA

0529 1.55 1219 0.51 1810 1.19 2343 0.56

19SU

0618 1.73 1300 0.33 1857 1.36

5SU

0616 1.64 1301 0.42 1854 1.26

20MO

0038 0.44 0707 1.76 1343 0.29 1940 1.42

6MO

0029 0.49 0700 1.72 1339 0.33 1933 1.34

21TU

0126 0.40 0750 1.77 1420 0.28 2019 1.48

7TU

0113 0.42 0741 1.80 1416 0.26 2014 1.42

22WE

0210 0.38 0830 1.74 1454 0.29 2057 1.51

8WE

0157 0.36 0822 1.84 1453 0.20 2054 1.49

23TH

0250 0.39 0907 1.68 1526 0.32 2132 1.53

9TH

0243 0.32 0904 1.85 1530 0.18 2136 1.56

24FR

0330 0.41 0943 1.60 1556 0.36 2206 1.53

10FR

0330 0.30 0948 1.81 1610 0.19 2220 1.60

25SA

0409 0.45 1016 1.52 1625 0.41 2240 1.53

11SA

0420 0.31 1033 1.73 1650 0.23 2307 1.63

26SU

0448 0.50 1051 1.43 1654 0.47 2315 1.51

12SU

0514 0.35 1122 1.60 1733 0.31 2357 1.63

27MO

0530 0.55 1129 1.33 1727 0.53 2355 1.48

13MO

0612 0.41 1214 1.46 1819 0.40

28TU

0617 0.60 1210 1.24 1804 0.60

14TU

0051 1.61 0718 0.47 1315 1.32 1914 0.49

29WE

0041 1.45 0713 0.65 1301 1.16 1851 0.66

15WE

0153 1.59 0834 0.51 1427 1.21 2018 0.55

MARCH Time m Time m

1TH

0136 1.42 0821 0.68 1407 1.11 1954 0.71

16FR

0247 1.60 0945 0.49 1547 1.21 2123 0.65

2FR

0241 1.41 0937 0.67 1529 1.10 2108 0.71

17SA

0401 1.59 1052 0.47 1657 1.26 2235 0.61

3SA

0349 1.45 1045 0.61 1644 1.14 2217 0.67

18SU

0506 1.61 1147 0.43 1751 1.34 2337 0.55

4SU

0451 1.52 1139 0.52 1739 1.22 2315 0.59

19MO

0600 1.63 1232 0.40 1837 1.43

5MO

0543 1.61 1223 0.42 1824 1.33

20TU

0030 0.50 0645 1.64 1311 0.38 1916 1.50

6TU

0006 0.50 0629 1.70 1302 0.32 1905 1.44

21WE

0114 0.45 0727 1.63 1345 0.37 1953 1.56

7WE

0053 0.40 0714 1.77 1341 0.25 1945 1.55

22TH

0155 0.43 0804 1.60 1416 0.38 2027 1.60

8TH

0141 0.31 0758 1.81 1419 0.20 2028 1.66

23FR

0232 0.42 0840 1.55 1445 0.40 2059 1.63

9FR

0229 0.25 0844 1.80 1500 0.18 2111 1.74

24SA

0310 0.42 0915 1.50 1515 0.44 2130 1.64

10SA

0319 0.22 0930 1.75 1540 0.21 2156 1.78

25SU

0346 0.44 0949 1.44 1544 0.48 2203 1.64

11SU

0412 0.23 1020 1.65 1623 0.27 2244 1.79

26MO

0425 0.47 1026 1.38 1614 0.53 2238 1.62

12MO

0507 0.28 1112 1.53 1708 0.37 2335 1.76

27TU

0506 0.52 1104 1.31 1647 0.59 2316 1.58

13TU

0608 0.35 1208 1.39 1758 0.47

28WE

0550 0.56 1146 1.24 1726 0.65

14WE

0031 1.71 0715 0.42 1311 1.28 1856 0.57

29TH

0000 1.53 0642 0.61 1236 1.18 1813 0.71

15TH

0135 1.64 0830 0.47 1426 1.21 2005 0.63

30FR

0051 1.48 0743 0.64 1337 1.15 1912 0.75

31SA

0153 1.46 0850 0.64 1450 1.15 2026 0.76

APRIL Time m Time m

1SU

0300 1.47 0955 0.59 1602 1.21 2141 0.71

16MO

0439 1.53 1109 0.49 1724 1.42 2321 0.63

2MO

0406 1.52 1049 0.51 1700 1.31 2245 0.63

17TU

0531 1.52 1152 0.48 1808 1.50

3TU

0503 1.59 1136 0.42 1748 1.43 2341 0.52

18WE

0014 0.57 0616 1.51 1230 0.47 1846 1.57

4WE

0554 1.67 1219 0.33 1832 1.57

19TH

0058 0.53 0658 1.50 1302 0.47 1921 1.63

5TH

0032 0.40 0644 1.72 1301 0.27 1915 1.71

20FR

0137 0.49 0735 1.48 1334 0.48 1955 1.68

6FR

0124 0.30 0732 1.74 1344 0.24 2000 1.83

21SA

0215 0.46 0813 1.45 1404 0.50 2027 1.71

7SA

0215 0.22 0823 1.72 1427 0.25 2046 1.91

22SU

0250 0.45 0849 1.42 1435 0.52 2100 1.73

8SU

0308 0.19 0915 1.66 1511 0.29 2134 1.95

23MO

0327 0.45 0926 1.39 1507 0.55 2132 1.73

9MO

0403 0.19 1008 1.57 1558 0.36 2224 1.94

24TU

0405 0.47 1004 1.35 1541 0.59 2208 1.71

10TU

0500 0.24 1104 1.47 1647 0.45 2317 1.88

25WE

0445 0.50 1044 1.30 1617 0.63 2246 1.67

11WE

0601 0.31 1203 1.37 1742 0.55

26TH

0529 0.54 1127 1.26 1659 0.68 2329 1.62

12TH

0014 1.79 0707 0.39 1307 1.30 1843 0.63

27FR

0616 0.57 1215 1.23 1745 0.72

13FR

0116 1.69 0815 0.45 1417 1.26 1953 0.69

28SA

0017 1.57 0711 0.59 1312 1.22 1842 0.76

14SA

0227 1.60 0920 0.49 1530 1.28 2108 0.70

29SU

0113 1.53 0808 0.58 1415 1.24 1950 0.77

15SU

0336 1.55 1018 0.50 1632 1.34 2219 0.68

30MO

0216 1.52 0906 0.55 1521 1.31 2104 0.73

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2010 Bureau of Meteorology National Tidal Centre

Height datum is Lowest Astronomical Tide When daylight saving time is in force, add one hour to times

Moon Symbols New Moon First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter

2012

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AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) LAT 33° 51’ LONG 151° 14’

TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS TIME ZONE –1000

MAYTime m Time m

1TU

0322 1.53 1000 0.49 1619 1.42 2214 0.65

16WE

0453 1.40 1103 0.55 1731 1.54 2351 0.65

2WE

0424 1.57 1049 0.42 1711 1.56 2315 0.54

17TH

0542 1.39 1142 0.55 1812 1.61

3TH

0521 1.61 1136 0.37 1800 1.70

18FR

0037 0.59 0626 1.38 1218 0.55 1848 1.67

4FR

0014 0.42 0615 1.63 1222 0.33 1847 1.84

19SA

0117 0.54 0707 1.38 1253 0.55 1924 1.72

5SA

0109 0.31 0710 1.63 1309 0.32 1935 1.95

20SU

0155 0.50 0746 1.37 1328 0.56 1958 1.76

6SU

0204 0.23 0804 1.61 1357 0.33 2025 2.03

21MO

0231 0.47 0825 1.36 1402 0.57 2032 1.78

7MO

0259 0.19 0900 1.56 1445 0.37 2115 2.05

22TU

0309 0.46 0904 1.35 1438 0.58 2108 1.79

8TU

0355 0.19 0957 1.51 1537 0.43 2207 2.02

23WE

0346 0.46 0943 1.33 1515 0.61 2145 1.77

9WE

0451 0.23 1054 1.44 1630 0.50 2300 1.95

24TH

0426 0.47 1024 1.31 1555 0.63 2224 1.74

10TH

0550 0.30 1152 1.39 1727 0.58 2356 1.83

25FR

0507 0.49 1108 1.30 1638 0.66 2305 1.70

11FR

0649 0.38 1252 1.35 1827 0.65

26SA

0552 0.51 1155 1.29 1725 0.69 2350 1.65

12SA

0054 1.71 0747 0.45 1355 1.34 1932 0.71

27SU

0639 0.51 1247 1.30 1820 0.72

13SU

0155 1.59 0843 0.51 1457 1.36 2043 0.74

28MO

0042 1.60 0730 0.51 1344 1.34 1923 0.73

14MO

0259 1.50 0934 0.54 1554 1.41 2152 0.74

29TU

0139 1.55 0821 0.49 1443 1.41 2034 0.71

15TU

0359 1.44 1021 0.55 1645 1.47 2256 0.70

30WE

0244 1.52 0914 0.47 1541 1.52 2146 0.64

31TH

0349 1.51 1006 0.44 1637 1.64 2256 0.54

JUNE Time m Time m

1FR

0453 1.51 1058 0.41 1730 1.78 2359 0.42

16SA

0013 0.62 0555 1.28 1138 0.59 1816 1.66

2SA

0554 1.51 1149 0.39 1823 1.90

17SU

0056 0.56 0641 1.29 1219 0.58 1856 1.72

3SU

0058 0.32 0653 1.51 1241 0.38 1915 2.00

18MO

0135 0.50 0723 1.31 1258 0.57 1933 1.76

4MO

0154 0.23 0750 1.51 1333 0.38 2008 2.07

19TU

0213 0.46 0803 1.32 1336 0.56 2011 1.79

5TU

0249 0.19 0847 1.49 1426 0.40 2100 2.08

20WE

0249 0.43 0843 1.33 1415 0.55 2047 1.81

6WE

0343 0.19 0943 1.47 1519 0.44 2151 2.04

21TH

0327 0.41 0922 1.34 1455 0.55 2125 1.81

7TH

0436 0.23 1037 1.45 1614 0.49 2242 1.95

22FR

0404 0.40 1002 1.34 1536 0.56 2204 1.79

8FR

0528 0.29 1131 1.42 1708 0.56 2332 1.82

23SA

0443 0.40 1045 1.35 1621 0.58 2245 1.74

9SA

0619 0.37 1225 1.40 1804 0.63

24SU

0524 0.41 1131 1.37 1709 0.60 2328 1.68

10SU

0024 1.68 0708 0.45 1318 1.39 1902 0.70

25MO

0607 0.42 1220 1.39 1802 0.63

11MO

0115 1.54 0756 0.52 1414 1.40 2006 0.75

26TU

0016 1.60 0652 0.43 1313 1.43 1903 0.65

12TU

0211 1.42 0841 0.56 1507 1.43 2114 0.76

27WE

0111 1.52 0742 0.44 1410 1.49 2013 0.65

13WE

0310 1.33 0927 0.59 1600 1.48 2222 0.74

28TH

0215 1.44 0835 0.45 1509 1.57 2129 0.60

14TH

0408 1.29 1012 0.60 1649 1.54 2322 0.69

29FR

0324 1.39 0931 0.46 1610 1.67 2243 0.52

15FR

0504 1.27 1056 0.60 1734 1.60

30SA

0434 1.37 1030 0.45 1709 1.78 2350 0.41

JULY Time m Time m

1SU

0541 1.38 1128 0.43 1807 1.89

16MO

0033 0.54 0617 1.22 1151 0.57 1830 1.67

2MO

0050 0.31 0643 1.41 1223 0.40 1901 1.98

17TU

0114 0.47 0700 1.26 1234 0.54 1910 1.73

3TU

0145 0.23 0740 1.43 1318 0.39 1955 2.02

18WE

0150 0.41 0741 1.30 1315 0.50 1948 1.78

4WE

0237 0.19 0833 1.45 1412 0.38 2045 2.02

19TH

0226 0.36 0819 1.33 1356 0.47 2026 1.81

5TH

0326 0.18 0924 1.46 1504 0.40 2133 1.97

20FR

0301 0.32 0858 1.37 1437 0.45 2103 1.81

6FR

0413 0.22 1014 1.46 1555 0.44 2220 1.87

21SA

0337 0.30 0938 1.40 1520 0.44 2143 1.79

7SA

0457 0.28 1101 1.45 1645 0.51 2304 1.74

22SU

0415 0.29 1020 1.44 1606 0.45 2224 1.74

8SU

0540 0.36 1149 1.43 1735 0.58 2348 1.59

23MO

0453 0.30 1105 1.47 1656 0.48 2308 1.65

9MO

0620 0.44 1236 1.42 1828 0.65

24TU

0534 0.33 1153 1.49 1749 0.51 2357 1.55

10TU

0032 1.45 0701 0.51 1324 1.42 1925 0.71

25WE

0619 0.37 1245 1.52 1850 0.55

11WE

0120 1.33 0743 0.56 1415 1.43 2030 0.74

26TH

0051 1.43 0708 0.42 1342 1.54 2001 0.56

12TH

0216 1.23 0830 0.60 1510 1.45 2141 0.74

27FR

0157 1.33 0804 0.47 1445 1.59 2120 0.54

13FR

0321 1.18 0921 0.62 1604 1.49 2249 0.69

28SA

0312 1.26 0908 0.49 1551 1.65 2238 0.47

14SA

0428 1.17 1015 0.62 1658 1.54 2346 0.62

29SU

0428 1.25 1014 0.48 1657 1.73 2345 0.38

15SU

0527 1.19 1105 0.60 1745 1.60

30MO

0537 1.29 1116 0.44 1757 1.82

31TU

0043 0.28 0635 1.34 1215 0.40 1851 1.89

AUGUST Time m Time m

1WE

0133 0.22 0728 1.40 1308 0.36 1941 1.92

16TH

0120 0.35 0715 1.31 1255 0.43 1922 1.74

2TH

0219 0.18 0816 1.45 1359 0.34 2028 1.91

17FR

0155 0.28 0753 1.38 1337 0.38 2000 1.78

3FR

0301 0.18 0901 1.47 1447 0.35 2112 1.84

18SA

0230 0.23 0831 1.45 1420 0.33 2041 1.78

4SA

0342 0.22 0945 1.49 1534 0.38 2154 1.74

19SU

0305 0.20 0912 1.51 1505 0.31 2122 1.75

5SU

0419 0.28 1028 1.48 1620 0.44 2233 1.62

20MO

0343 0.20 0954 1.57 1553 0.31 2206 1.68

6MO

0455 0.35 1109 1.47 1705 0.51 2312 1.49

21TU

0422 0.23 1039 1.60 1645 0.34 2252 1.58

7TU

0530 0.42 1150 1.45 1752 0.58 2351 1.36

22WE

0504 0.28 1127 1.61 1741 0.38 2344 1.45

8WE

0605 0.49 1233 1.43 1844 0.64

23TH

0550 0.36 1220 1.60 1844 0.44

9TH

0035 1.25 0645 0.55 1321 1.41 1945 0.68

24FR

0042 1.33 0643 0.44 1319 1.58 1957 0.48

10FR

0129 1.16 0732 0.60 1415 1.41 2056 0.69

25SA

0150 1.22 0745 0.50 1427 1.58 2117 0.47

11SA

0237 1.10 0831 0.64 1517 1.42 2210 0.66

26SU

0310 1.18 0856 0.52 1539 1.61 2232 0.42

12SU

0352 1.09 0935 0.64 1619 1.46 2313 0.59

27MO

0428 1.20 1007 0.50 1647 1.66 2335 0.35

13MO

0500 1.13 1034 0.61 1714 1.53

28TU

0531 1.27 1112 0.45 1746 1.72

14TU

0003 0.51 0552 1.18 1127 0.56 1800 1.60

29WE

0028 0.28 0625 1.35 1209 0.39 1838 1.76

15WE

0044 0.43 0636 1.25 1213 0.50 1843 1.68

30TH

0113 0.23 0712 1.42 1300 0.34 1925 1.77

31FR

0153 0.21 0755 1.48 1347 0.31 2007 1.74

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2010 Bureau of Meteorology National Tidal Centre

Height datum is Lowest Astronomical Tide

Moon Symbols New Moon First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter

2012

AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) LAT 33° 51’ LONG 151° 14’

TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS TIME ZONE –1000

SEPTEMBER Time m Time m

1SA

0230 0.22 0835 1.52 1431 0.32 2047 1.68

16SU

0153 0.19 0802 1.59 1404 0.24 2016 1.72

2SU

0305 0.25 0914 1.54 1514 0.34 2126 1.59

17MO

0231 0.17 0844 1.67 1452 0.20 2102 1.68

3MO

0338 0.30 0951 1.54 1556 0.39 2202 1.49

18TU

0311 0.18 0929 1.72 1543 0.19 2150 1.60

4TU

0410 0.36 1027 1.53 1637 0.44 2239 1.39

19WE

0353 0.23 1015 1.75 1636 0.22 2241 1.49

5WE

0441 0.43 1104 1.50 1720 0.50 2317 1.29

20TH

0438 0.30 1105 1.73 1734 0.28 2336 1.38

6TH

0515 0.50 1144 1.47 1807 0.56

21FR

0529 0.39 1200 1.68 1839 0.34

7FR

0000 1.20 0554 0.56 1230 1.43 1902 0.61

22SA

0039 1.27 0626 0.48 1301 1.62 1952 0.39

8SA

0052 1.13 0642 0.62 1323 1.39 2010 0.63

23SU

0150 1.19 0732 0.54 1411 1.58 2107 0.41

9SU

0158 1.08 0744 0.66 1426 1.38 2123 0.62

24MO

0309 1.18 0848 0.56 1525 1.56 2215 0.39

10MO

0315 1.07 0855 0.66 1534 1.40 2229 0.57

25TU

0420 1.23 1001 0.53 1633 1.58 2314 0.35

11TU

0426 1.11 1001 0.63 1635 1.46 2321 0.49

26WE

0518 1.31 1106 0.47 1730 1.60

12WE

0520 1.19 1059 0.56 1726 1.54

27TH

0001 0.31 0607 1.40 1201 0.41 1819 1.61

13TH

0003 0.40 0604 1.28 1148 0.47 1810 1.61

28FR

0044 0.28 0650 1.48 1251 0.36 1903 1.60

14FR

0041 0.31 0644 1.38 1233 0.38 1852 1.68

29SA

0120 0.28 0730 1.54 1335 0.33 1944 1.57

15SA

0117 0.24 0722 1.49 1318 0.30 1933 1.72

30SU

0154 0.29 0806 1.59 1415 0.33 2022 1.52

OCTOBER Time m Time m

1MO

0226 0.32 0841 1.61 1455 0.34 2059 1.46

16TU

0158 0.19 0818 1.83 1441 0.13 2045 1.59

2TU

0256 0.36 0915 1.61 1533 0.36 2134 1.39

17WE

0241 0.22 0905 1.88 1533 0.12 2137 1.52

3WE

0327 0.41 0949 1.60 1612 0.39 2212 1.32

18TH

0328 0.27 0955 1.89 1629 0.15 2232 1.44

4TH

0359 0.47 1025 1.58 1652 0.44 2250 1.25

19FR

0418 0.35 1047 1.85 1728 0.20 2330 1.35

5FR

0433 0.52 1102 1.54 1736 0.49 2333 1.19

20SA

0513 0.43 1143 1.77 1831 0.28

6SA

0514 0.58 1145 1.48 1827 0.54

21SU

0033 1.28 0613 0.51 1244 1.67 1938 0.34

7SU

0024 1.14 0601 0.64 1236 1.43 1926 0.57

22MO

0143 1.24 0721 0.57 1351 1.58 2045 0.38

8MO

0125 1.10 0701 0.68 1335 1.39 2032 0.57

23TU

0254 1.25 0836 0.59 1502 1.52 2146 0.39

9TU

0235 1.10 0812 0.69 1442 1.39 2135 0.53

24WE

0400 1.31 0948 0.58 1608 1.48 2240 0.39

10WE

0344 1.16 0923 0.66 1547 1.42 2229 0.47

25TH

0454 1.38 1054 0.53 1706 1.47 2326 0.38

11TH

0440 1.25 1027 0.58 1644 1.48 2315 0.39

26FR

0542 1.47 1150 0.48 1756 1.45

12FR

0527 1.36 1121 0.48 1733 1.55 2356 0.31

27SA

0005 0.38 0623 1.54 1239 0.43 1839 1.44

13SA

0609 1.49 1212 0.37 1820 1.60

28SU

0042 0.38 0701 1.60 1321 0.39 1919 1.41

14SU

0035 0.24 0651 1.62 1300 0.27 1907 1.63

29MO

0115 0.39 0737 1.65 1400 0.36 1958 1.39

15MO

0115 0.20 0733 1.74 1350 0.18 1955 1.63

30TU

0146 0.41 0811 1.67 1437 0.35 2034 1.36

31WE

0218 0.44 0844 1.69 1514 0.35 2111 1.33

NOVEMBER Time m Time m

1TH

0251 0.47 0918 1.68 1550 0.37 2149 1.29

16FR

0309 0.31 0939 1.99 1620 0.10 2223 1.43

2FR

0326 0.51 0954 1.66 1630 0.40 2229 1.25

17SA

0402 0.37 1032 1.93 1716 0.16 2320 1.38

3SA

0403 0.55 1031 1.62 1711 0.44 2312 1.21

18SU

0459 0.44 1127 1.83 1815 0.24

4SU

0445 0.60 1113 1.56 1757 0.48 2359 1.18

19MO

0020 1.34 0559 0.52 1223 1.71 1913 0.31

5MO

0531 0.64 1159 1.51 1847 0.51

20TU

0122 1.32 0703 0.58 1323 1.58 2011 0.38

6TU

0053 1.17 0626 0.68 1251 1.45 1943 0.51

21WE

0225 1.33 0813 0.62 1428 1.46 2105 0.43

7WE

0155 1.18 0730 0.70 1350 1.42 2040 0.49

22TH

0326 1.37 0924 0.63 1531 1.38 2155 0.46

8TH

0258 1.24 0842 0.68 1455 1.41 2134 0.45

23FR

0420 1.43 1032 0.61 1631 1.33 2242 0.47

9FR

0355 1.33 0950 0.61 1559 1.43 2224 0.39

24SA

0509 1.50 1132 0.56 1725 1.30 2323 0.47

10SA

0446 1.46 1053 0.51 1657 1.47 2310 0.33

25SU

0553 1.57 1223 0.51 1813 1.30

11SU

0534 1.60 1150 0.39 1751 1.51 2356 0.29

26MO

0002 0.47 0632 1.62 1306 0.45 1856 1.30

12MO

0621 1.74 1245 0.27 1845 1.53

27TU

0039 0.47 0709 1.67 1345 0.41 1936 1.30

13TU

0042 0.26 0708 1.86 1338 0.17 1937 1.53

28WE

0115 0.48 0745 1.71 1421 0.38 2014 1.31

14WE

0129 0.25 0757 1.95 1431 0.10 2031 1.51

29TH

0149 0.49 0820 1.73 1457 0.36 2052 1.30

15TH

0217 0.27 0847 2.00 1525 0.08 2127 1.47

30FR

0225 0.50 0855 1.73 1532 0.36 2130 1.29

DECEMBER Time m Time m

1SA

0301 0.52 0931 1.72 1609 0.37 2208 1.28

16SU

0348 0.36 1017 1.96 1658 0.14 2301 1.43

2SU

0341 0.54 1009 1.69 1647 0.39 2249 1.26

17MO

0444 0.41 1108 1.85 1748 0.22 2356 1.41

3MO

0422 0.57 1047 1.64 1729 0.41 2333 1.25

18TU

0540 0.49 1159 1.70 1838 0.32

4TU

0507 0.61 1130 1.58 1812 0.43

19WE

0050 1.39 0638 0.57 1250 1.54 1927 0.40

5WE

0022 1.25 0559 0.64 1215 1.52 1859 0.45

20TH

0145 1.39 0741 0.63 1345 1.39 2015 0.47

6TH

0115 1.28 0657 0.67 1308 1.46 1949 0.45

21FR

0242 1.40 0849 0.67 1445 1.28 2103 0.52

7FR

0214 1.33 0803 0.66 1409 1.41 2042 0.44

22SA

0337 1.44 1000 0.67 1548 1.21 2152 0.55

8SA

0312 1.42 0915 0.62 1516 1.38 2136 0.41

23SU

0430 1.48 1106 0.63 1650 1.19 2241 0.56

9SU

0408 1.53 1027 0.53 1623 1.38 2230 0.38

24MO

0519 1.54 1202 0.57 1746 1.20 2327 0.55

10MO

0502 1.66 1132 0.41 1727 1.40 2322 0.35

25TU

0604 1.60 1247 0.51 1834 1.23

11TU

0556 1.79 1232 0.29 1827 1.43

26WE

0009 0.53 0645 1.65 1328 0.44 1916 1.26

12WE

0015 0.32 0648 1.91 1329 0.18 1924 1.45

27TH

0049 0.52 0723 1.70 1404 0.39 1956 1.28

13TH

0107 0.30 0741 2.00 1422 0.11 2020 1.46

28FR

0128 0.50 0800 1.73 1439 0.36 2032 1.30

14FR

0200 0.30 0833 2.04 1515 0.08 2115 1.46

29SA

0206 0.49 0836 1.75 1514 0.34 2109 1.32

15SA

0254 0.32 0926 2.03 1607 0.09 2208 1.45

30SU

0244 0.48 0913 1.75 1548 0.33 2146 1.33

31MO

0323 0.49 0949 1.74 1623 0.33 2225 1.33

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2010 Bureau of Meteorology National Tidal Centre

Height datum is Lowest Astronomical Tide When daylight saving time is in force, add one hour to times

Moon Symbols New Moon First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter

2012

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LAg TiMES(* Indicates secondary ocean location)

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meterorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only. All times are Eastern Standard Time. During summer time add one hour.

Add or subtract the appropriate hours and/or minutes listed here to adjust for the time difference between when high or low tide occurs at Sydney (Fort Denison) and when the corresponding tide will occur at the secondary location. Lows may be fractionally later than the highs because the falling water levels will no longer have the tidal force behind them.

Location hour: Mins

TWEEd RiVER BASiN

Tweed Heads, River Entrance

+0:04*

Greenbank Island +0:40

Murwillumbah +2:40

Caddys Island, Terranora Creek +1:40

Cobaki Broadwater +2:10

Kingscliff, Cudgen Creek Mouth

+0:17

BRuNSWicK RiVER BASiN

Brunswick Heads, River Entrance

+0:06*

Billinudgel, Marshalls Creek +3:55

Mullumbimby +1:10

RichMoNd RiVER BASiN

Ballina, River Entrance +0:07*

Byrnes Point Ferry +0:30

Highway Bridge, Tucombil Creek

+2:30

Coraki +4:05

Lismore Airfield South, Wilsons River.

+5:10

cLARENcE RiVER BASiN

Yamba, River Entrance 0:00*

Palmers Island, Palmers Channel +2:40

Maclean +2:00

Location hour: Mins

Grafton +4:15

Wooli River Entrance +0:12

Wooli Caravan Park +1:40

coFFS hARBouR REgioN

Harbour Jetty -0:07*

Highway Bridge, Coffs Creek +1:50

Boambee, Boambee Creek +1:50

BELLiNgEN RiVER BASiN

East Bellingen +2:10

Urunga Bridge, Kalang River +1:45

NAMBuccA RiVER BASiN

Stuarts Island +1:10

Macksville +2:00

MAcLEAy RiVER BASiN

South West Rocks (Kemps Corner)

+0:23

Smithtown +2:10

Kempsey +3:25

West Euroka +4:05

hASTiNgS RiVER BASiN

Port Macquarie, River Entrance

+0:19*

Settlement Point +0:50

Wauchope Railway Bridge +1:55

Telegraph Point, Wilson River +3:05

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Location hour: Mins

cAMdEN hAVEN BASiN

North Haven +0:18

Laurieton +0:45

MANNiNg RiVER BASiN

Crowdy Head, Harbour Marina -0:02

Harrington +0:11

Taree +2:25

Wingham +3:45

WALLiS LAKE

Forster, Harbour Entrance +0:01*

Wallamba Island, North Tuncurry

+2:05

Tiona +3:25

huNTER RiVER BASiN

Tomaree, Port Stephens +0:05*

Nelson Bay, Port Stephens +0:30

Stockton Bridge +0:20

Tea Gardens, Port Stephens +1:30

Hexham Bridge +1:10

Raymond Terrace, Williams River

+1:55

Morpeth +3:30

Maitland, Belmore Bridge +4:50

Paterson, Paterson River +4:30

Swansea, Lake Mouth 0:00*

BRiSBANE WATERS/ BRoKEN BAy

Ettalong +0:40

Woy Woy Bridge +2:15

East Gosford +2:20

Patonga +0:10

Newport Wharf, Pittwater +0:08

Berowra Waters Ferry +1:00

Location hour: Mins

hAWKESBuRy RiVER

Spencer +1:10

Wisemans Ferry +2:25

Lower Portland +3:10

Sackville +3:55

Windsor +5:40

Freemans Reach +7:30

SydNEy hARBouR

Roseville Bridge Marina +0:03

Gladesville Bridge +0:05

Ryde Railway Bridge +0:12

gEoRgES RiVER BASiN

Canterbury Bridge, Cooks River +0:40

Picnic Point +1:10

Milperra +2:15

Lansvale +2:35

Warwick Farm +2:45

Cabbage Tree Point, Port Hacking

+0:03*

LAKE iLLAWARRA BASiN

Port Kembla -0:01*

ShoALhAVEN RiVER BASiN

South Shoalhaven Heads +0:55

Shoalhaven Heads Inlet +1:05

Nowra Bridge +2:00

Crookhaven River Entrance +0:16

Greenwell Point, Crookhaven River

+0:40

JERViS BAy

Huskisson +0:08*

ST gEoRgES BASiN

Lumeah +0:18

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Location hour: Mins

Sussex Inlet Coastal Patrol Jetty +0:35

Talofa Caravan Park +1:15

Island Point +3:40

Lake Conjola Entrance +1:35

Narrawallee Inlet +0:45

Burril Lake, Highway Bridge +0:55

BATEMANS BAy

Snapper Island +0:03*

Princes Highway Bridge +0:20

Nelligen, Clyde River +0:45

MoRuyA REgioN

Tuross River, West Tuross Head +1:40

Moruya Quarry Wharf +0:35

Location hour: Mins

WAgoNgA iNLET (NARooMA)

MSB Boatshed/Jetty +0:15

Apex Park Boat Ramp +0:55

Princes Highway Bridge +1:15

Barlows Bay +2:00

FAR SouTh coAST REgioN

Bermagui, Boat Harbour +0:08*

Wallaga Lake Entrance +1:40

Wallaga Lake, Regatta Point +2:50

Merimbula Wharf +0:40

Bonnie Doon, Merimbula Lake +2:40

Tee Tree Point, Pambula Lake +1:10

Eden, Fishing Co-operative Jetty +0:08*

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ESLocAL REcREATioNAL FiShiNg guidESLocal guides provide valuable information on fishing in the coastal areas from Tweed Heads in the north to Eden on the far south coast.Whether you are a resident or a visiting fisher you can find details on fishing locations, local

fishing rules and closures along with summary maps in the local areas on our website at: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/publications.

FiShERiES oFFicERSFisheries Officers have an important role in helping our fisheries resources and the environment remain healthy and sustainable into the future. They advise recreational and commercial fishers and the general community of fishing rules and restrictions, and patrol NSW waters to ensure everyone is abiding by the state’s fishing laws.

Fisheries Officers patrol our coastal estuaries, lakes and offshore waters plus our inland rivers, streams and dams, seven days a week. You will see Fisheries Officers at boat ramps, on beaches and rivers, in vessels, boats, aircraft and on foot, just about everywhere there are fish and fishers. They deal with recreational fishers, commercial fishers, fish farmers, fish shops and restaurants. They also assist with conservation issues plus educational and advisory programs. Most Fisheries Officers are keen fishers and are happy to provide you with local knowledge and tips for a given area.

Under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 Fisheries Officers have powers which enable them to search your boat and vehicle, to

examine your fishing gear, fish and bait and to require certain information including your name and address. They can also require you to lift any set fishing gear such as fishing lines, hoop nets and crab traps from the water for their inspection. In serious matters they can also seize fish, fishing gear, vessels and vehicles and can make an arrest.

If you are found breaking the fishing rules, you may be issued with a written caution or a penalty notice. In most cases penalty notices range between $75 to $500 but some offences can attract penalties up to $2,500. In serious matters you may have to face a court and have the matter determined by a magistrate.

Your recreational fishing fee is being used in part to improve salt and freshwater fisheries compliance and employs additional Fisheries Officers throughout the state.

This results in more Fisheries Officers spending time in the field with better equipment to detect and deter illegal activity.

Remember that Fisheries Officers are there to ensure the rules are being adhered to so there will be healthy fisheries and environment for the enjoyment of future generations.

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SReporting illegal activitiesReport illegal or suspect fishing activities to the nearest NSW DPI fisheries office via the Fishers Watch Phoneline on free call 1800 043 536 or online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/compliance.

When lodging any report be prepared to provide the following information:n Type of activity.

n Time, date and location of activity.

n Number of people involved, identity if known and descriptions.

n Registration numbers of any boats or cars involved and their descriptions.

n Your own name and contact details to further substantiate your report and provide you with follow up information.

Where information is given in good faith, all identifying details will be treated as confidential.

Where an immediate response is not possible due to conducting of other operations or safety considerations, information received will be used in targeting on-going surveillance and enforcement activities.

Region office Mobile

Central Tablelands.

Research Station Drive, Bathurst, 2795. 02 6331 1428 0488 220 443

Hume. 3/556 Macauley Street, Albury, 2640. 02 6042 4228 0419 185 548

Far West. Agricultural Research and Advisory Station, Silver City Highway, Dareton, 2717.

03 5019 8408 0427 429 579

Macquarie. Cnr Hampden and Cobra Streets, Dubbo, 2830. 02 6881 1208 0438 410 585

Monaro. Kosciusko Road, Jindabyne, 2627. 02 6451 3402 0427 460 226

New England. 127 Otho Street, Inverell, 2360. 02 6722 1388 0419 185 532

Peel. 4 Marsden Park Road, Calala, 2340. 02 6763 1132 0417 480 933

Riverina. 449 Charlotte Street, Deniliquin, 2710. 03 5881 9928 0427 897 145

South West Slopes.

64 Fitzroy Street, Tumut, 2720. 02 6947 9028 0408 484 299

inland offices

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Far North coast office Mobile

Tweed. 10/12 Greenway Drive, Tweed Heads, 2486. 07 5523 6900 0419 185537

Richmond. 15 Regatta Avenue, Ballina, 2478. 02 6618 1800 0417 692608

Clarence. 18A River Street, Maclean, 2463. 02 6645 0500 0419 185533

Coffs Harbour. 32 Marina Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty, 2450. 02 6652 3977 0419 185536

North coast

Hastings. 3/22-24 Acacia Avenue, Port Macquarie, 2444. 02 5524 0600 0407 957631

Wallis Lake. 2 Palm Street, Tuncurry, 2428. 02 6591 6300 0428 546078

central coast

Port Stephens. Taylors Beach Road, Taylors Beach, 2316. 02 4916 3933 0427 497341

Hunter. 55 Lambton Parade, Swansea, 2281. 02 4980 9202 0419 185516

Central Coast. Northloop Road, Ourimbah, 2258. 02 4348 1999 0419 185517

Sydney metropolitan

Sydney North. 12 Shirley Road, Wollstonecraft, 2065. 02 8437 4903 0419 185363

Sydney South. 1 Water Street, Sans Souci, 2219. 02 9529 6021 0408 601951

illawarra/Shoalhaven

Illawarra. 43 Reddall Parade, Lake Illawarra South, 2528. 02 4295 1809 0439 162981

Shoalhaven. 4 Woollamia Road, Huskisson, 2540. 02 4428 3400 0419 185557

South coast

Batemans Bay. Suite 8, Braysyth Building, Cnr Beach Road & Orient Street, Batemans Bay, 2536.

02 4478 9100 0427 855008

Montague. Riverside Drive, Narooma, 2546. 02 4476 0100 0409 316508

Far South Coast. 13 Cocora Street, Eden, 2551. 02 6496 8200 0428 899876

coastal offices

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For general fishing information call 02 9527 8411 or check the website

www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au.

As officers spend a lot of time in the field, office hours vary. It is best to call before

visiting any office.

Marine Parks office

Solitary Islands Marine Park. 02 6652 3977

Jervis Bay Marine Park. 02 4428 3000

Cape Byron Marine Park. 02 6620 9300

Lord Howe Island Marine Park. 02 6563 2359

Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park. 02 4984 8270

Batemans Marine Park. 02 4476 0800

Marine Park offices (department of Environment climate change and Water)

Fish killsFish kills in the wild should be reported to your local NSW DPI fisheries office or the NSW DPI hotline on 1800 043 536. If the fish kill is due to a suspected pollution event contact the Office of Environment and Heritage on 131 555.

LocATioN oF FiShERiES oFFicES

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