In good news for anglers, snapper catch limits last week increased for recreational (non-charter) fishers in the South East Fishery Zone following recent record recruitment events and increasing fish stocks.
The limit increased from one snapper per person per day to two per person per day and the boat limit where three or more people are on board has increased from three per boat to six per boat.
Charter boat fishing trip limits remain the same, with daily bag and boat limits specified by the regulations.
The 2023/24 season total allowable catch for snapper in the South East Fishery has been increased by 10% for the Recreational Fishery and Charter Boat Fishery as a result of uncaught carry-over from the 2022/23 season.
The mandatory reporting requirement when taking snapper has also changed.
Boat based fishers in the South East are now required to report their snapper catch before the fish is brought ashore or landed.
Shore based fishing is still required to be reported prior to fishers leaving their location.
Mandatory reporting of snapper catches can be made via the SA Fishing App, or Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.
snapper fishing closures remain in place on the West Coast, Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent, to help snapper stocks recover until 30 June 2026.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven said the increased limits for recreational fishers in the South East was based on the best available scientific information and expert advice.
“We want people to enjoy this iconic fish species while ensuring sustainability of the snapper fishery for future generations,” she said.
“Protecting the species is vital and the only reason why the snapper fishery remains closed in the other fishing zones.”
RecFishSA executive officer Asher Dezsery said the increase of snapper bag limits was a great result for the recreational community to align with best available snapper science and management.
“RecFish SA is proud to represent the recreational sector, and the increase of total catch and bag limits in the SE zone shows the importance of having a representative body so passionately representing and advocating on behalf of the fishing community,” he said.
