Win For Tasmanian Tuna Fishers

TARFish, Tasmania’s recreational fishing peak body, helps land a major victory for Tasmania’s game fishers in the wake of the Southern bluefin tuna (SBT) fishery announcement by Tasmanian Senator and Commonwealth Assistant Fisheries Minister Jonno Duniam today. 

“This announcement means there will be no change to Tasmania’s recreational boat, bag or size limits following the preliminary results of the 2019 National SBT recreational catch survey,’ said TARFish CEO, Jane Gallichan.

“From the beginning TARFish has played a leading role in advocating for the rights of the recreational game fishers of Tasmania.

“The Southern bluefin tuna fishery is highly prized by Tasmania’s recreational fishers and I know of five game fishing clubs, many charter boat operators and a whole lot of other fishers out there that will be breathing a collective sigh of relief today.

“I hope there will be more decisions as good as this one in our future that secure fair access to a range of important Tasmanian fisheries,” she said

The National SBT recreational catch survey was conducted by world leading experts from the University of Tas mania and was found to be comprehensive and scientifically robust. 

“The survey demonstrates that the SBT recreational fishery is a very important one to Tasmania and in comparison to its interstate counterparts. We have also shown that we are prepared to lead the way when it comes to best practice fish catch and handling.

“The Tuna Champions program that originated here in Tasmania has delivered results. Through education and awareness Tasmania’s fishers have embraced best practice techniques that are making a difference to the long-term sustainability of the fishery.

In closing Jane said, “We have been able to develop effective working relationships with the Commonwealth, fishery managers and researchers and appreciate the outstanding support of our national peak body, the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation.”

ENDS