Fishing
Recreational fishers enjoy fishing in Mosman and take responsibility for keeping the marine environment healthy for all to continue to enjoy. Fishers practice responsible fishing methods to limit bycatch.
Fishing at Clifton Gardens. Photos by Sheridan Nilsson.
Bycatch
Bycatch describes non-target species which are caught accidentally. Bycatch species include finfish, turtles, sea stars, crabs, sharks and can also include birds and mammals.
Simple steps to avoid bycatch:
- Use the appropriate gear for the fish you are after e.g. hook size.
- Avoid using nets.
- Avoid using stainless steel hooks.
- Don’t leave baited hooks and lines unattended or out of water.
- Be on the lookout for birds that may take bait.
- Throw back undersized and unwanted animals.
- Take all your tackle and rubbish with you and dispose of any discarded line.
- Don’t leave anything behind.
Seek assistance from a local wildlife care group if you catch a bird or mammal.
Sydney Harbour Intertidal Protected Area
Aquatic areas surrounding Mosman are part of the Sydney Harbour Intertidal Protected Area. It includes all of the foreshores of Sydney Harbour, including the Parramatta and Lane Cove rivers. Intertidal Protected Areas cover from the mean high water mark to 10 metres seaward from the mean low water mark. They are dedicated for the protection of selected rocky habitats and intertidal species.
It is strictly prohibited to collect intertidal animals in the Sydney Harbour Intertidal Protected Area under the Fisheries Management Act 1994. This includes crabs, snails, cunjevoi, octopus, sea urchins, anemones, pipis, cockles, mussels, oysters, and nippers (saltwater yabbies).
Fishing is permitted in Intertidal Protected Areas, but bait collection is not allowed. Bait can be brought up to the quantity allowed by the NSW Department of Primary Industries bag limits. Check their bag and size limits for saltwater.
Fishing closures are also outlined on the DPI website as are details about fishing licences. If you fish in NSW waters, both freshwater and saltwater, you are required by law to pay the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee and hold a receipt for payment in your possession.
Guarding Our Ocean Wildlife
A lot of us value more than just a coastal view, we love the sea itself. But the sea that we know and love is changing. Once treated as a dumping ground and considered inexhaustible, our oceans are now in crisis and need our help. The Australian Marine Conservation Society is Australia’s only national charity dedicated exclusively to protecting ocean wildlife and their homes.
