2018 Recreational Fishing Guide now available
by Nick Foster 20 Dec 2017 06:45 UTC
Anglers are being encouraged to get hold of the new Recreational Fishing Guide for 2018, which is now available free from hundreds of outlets including bait and tackle shops.
Recreational anglers can also update or download the free 'Vic Fishing' app for smartphones.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO, Travis Dowling, said the State Government is investing a record $46 million into Target One Million to get more people fishing, more often, so it is important that everyone knows the rules and does their bit.
"The updated Guide and app include rule changes for trout, stingrays, skates, banjo sharks and rock lobster that commenced in 2017," Mr Dowling said.
"Every year, we update the printed 64-page Guide, which is funded by recreational fishing licence fees.
"The smartphone app is updated more regularly as rule changes occur through the course of a year.
"The Guide and app are pivotal in helping recreational anglers understand bag limits, minimum sizes, closed seasons and equipment rules, which all contribute to sustainable fisheries."
Mr Dowling said the new Guide and app are supported by a suite of other educational tools including stick-on boat rulers and free plastic measures for abalone, rock lobster and spiny freshwater crayfish.
"These too have been updated to reflect all the changed rules."
Guides are available free of charge from most good tackle shops, many Tourist Information Centres and offices of the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources.
Alternatively, anglers can call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186 and request Guides, measures and rulers, all free of charge.
The new 2018 Guide can also be viewed on the VFA's website.