As an avid angler in New South Wales, it’s crucial to understand and abide by the legal size and bag limits for various fish species. These regulations, set by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, aim to ensure the sustainability and conservation of our valuable fisheries resources. In 2024, the legal size and bag limits for some popular fish species in NSW are as follows:
Australian Bass and Estuary Perch
For Australian bass and estuary perch, the legal size limit is 30 cm in listed dams, eastern dams, and eastern rivers. The daily bag limit is 5 in listed dams and eastern dams, and 2 in eastern rivers. The possession limit is 10 in listed dams and eastern dams, and 4 in eastern rivers. These fish are protected by a closed season from June to August in rivers below freshwater impoundments, while catch and release fishing is permitted from May to August. All year fishing is allowed in freshwater impoundments and rivers above freshwater impoundments.
Bream and Tarwhine
The legal size limit for bream (black/southern and yellowfin) and tarwhine is 25 cm. The combined daily bag limit for these species is 20 in total. The possession limit is also 20 in total.
Flathead
For dusky flathead, the legal size limit is 36-70 cm. The daily bag limit is 5 in total, with a possession limit of 10. For other flathead species, the legal size limit is 33 cm, with a daily bag limit of 10 in total and a possession limit of 20.
Luderick
The legal size limit for luderick (also known as blackfish) has been increased from 25 cm to 27 cm in 2024. The daily bag limit is 10, with a possession limit of 20.
Snapper
The legal size limit for snapper is 30 cm. The daily bag limit is 10, with a possession limit of 20.
Tailor
The legal size limit for tailor is 30 cm. The daily bag limit is 10, with a possession limit of 20.
Yellowtail Kingfish
The legal size limit for yellowtail kingfish has been increased from 60 cm to 65 cm in 2024. The daily bag limit is 5.
It’s important to note that these are just a few examples of the legal size and bag limits for fish species in NSW. There are many more species with specific regulations, including deep-sea fish, sharks, rays, and other saltwater and freshwater species. Anglers should always refer to the latest NSW DPI fishing rules and regulations before heading out on the water.
Adhering to these legal size and bag limits is crucial for the long-term sustainability of our fisheries. By respecting these regulations, anglers can help ensure that future generations can enjoy the thrill of fishing in NSW’s beautiful waterways.