MEDIA RELEASE

The State Government has strengthened measures to protect the unique Outback fishery as floodwaters continue to flow from Cooper Creek into Lake Eyre for the first time in 20 years.

Fisheries Minister Michael O’Brien said extra Fisheries officers were operating in the region as part of a bolstered compliance regime.

Mr O’Brien said South Australia had developed a four-state compliance partnership with Fisheries authorities in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales to ensure the area was adequately patrolled.

Mr O’Brien said there was an amazing amount of fish and bird life in the region.

“It’s important to remind fishermen that while the area is isolated, there still is a strong Fisheries presence,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The floodwaters are bringing with them fish like Lake Eyre Golden Perch, Cooper Creek Catfish, grunters and yabbies.

“It’s quite a rare and unique ecosystem in this area of Australia.

“That’s why it’s so important we protect the local fish stocks from those looking to exploit the rules.”

Mr O’Brien said the partnership with other states meant all areas of the Lake Eyre Basin were being patrolled.

“It also means that potential fishing offenders have even a greater chance of being caught,” he said.

Mr O’Brien said the Innamincka-based senior ranger with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Darren Wilson, had also been given Fisheries officer authority, ensuring a permanent compliance presence in the region.

“People need to realise that just because it’s an isolated area, it doesn’t mean we don’t travel up there, so don’t be tempted to fish illegally because at some stage or another you will get caught,” Mr
O’Brien said.

“Santos, who have significant operations in the district, have also been kind enough to put stickers on all their vehicles promoting the 24-hour Fishwatch number on 1800 065 522.

“So if you see anyone you think may be fishing illegally, please report it to Fishwatch so that Fisheries officers can investigate.

“In the first six months of this year alone, the Fishwatch hotline has received 7699 calls, which shows just how significant a tool it is in reporting offences and helping with fisheries education.”

Fisheries officers will be enforcing compliance with regulations concerning size limits, bag and boat limits and fishing devices.

Visitors intending to fish in the Outback are urged to obtain a copy of the latest Recreational Fishing Guide, available at most tackle stores or via the Fisheries website.

Good to see, cheers for the info to

Read this in the paper at work.. not a bad fish also in the pic!

PIRSA Fisheries wrote:


Great to see a number thrown out to the public. It's amazing how many peiple I know that are report incidents these days with most having the number in mobile phones "in case".

Keep up the good work guys !

Marine Safety have also visited the area so make sure you have all your correct safety gear.

I loved fishing the Cooper many years ago. A nice camp, meandering river system, camp fire, tents and top fishing. Even back then we only took enough for the days feed. The system is very fragile and after a visit back there a coupla years ago the damage to both the enviroment and its inhabitants is frightful

sounds like a cool place to visit (and still obey the rules lol)

Great place to fish. Both times I've been there we've caught plenty.