New snapper fishing limits have been developed for the South East, to be brought in for the February to June period in 2021.
Recreational fishers will be allowed to catch two snapper per person per day, or six per boat. with all catches to be reported through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions Recreational Fishing app.
In South East waters, there will be a total allowable snapper catch of 26,666 kilograms, including 21,600kg for commercial fishers, 2133kg kilograms for recreational fishers and 2667 kilograms for charter boats.
A minimum size limit of 38 centimetres will continue to apply.
While limits are in place for snapper fishing in the South East, there is a total ban on snapper fishing for the Spencer Gulf, West Coast and Gulf St Vincent, with the ban in place until January 31, 2023.
Primary Industries Minister David Basham said the new limits for South East waters would make snapper fishing more accessible, without depleting stocks.
"The daily catch limits will replace the recreational snapper tag trial we ran in 2020 after feedback was received from the Minister's Recreational Fishing Advisory Council and the Snapper Management Advisory Committee," he said.
"Anyone who plans on heading out to catch a snapper will need to download the Recreational Fishing App and is required to report any catches."
"Unfortunately the latest stock assessments show critically low snapper numbers in our gulfs and prompted the need to close the fishery to ensure future generations will be able to catch snapper in SA waters."
Mr Basham said the state government would continue to base management decisions on scientific information and expert advice.
More details on snapper catch limits are available on the PIRSA website. To download the Recreational Fishing app, click here.
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