For the first time in over 30 years, recreational fishers are now able to spear fish in specified waters along Adelaide’s coast.
Executive Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), Gavin Begg said amendments to the Fisheries Management (General) Regulations 2017 under the Fisheries Management Act 2007, which allowed spearfishing to take place in two dedicated areas, were now in effect.
Professor Begg said the amendments removed the previous single area that provided a blanket prohibition on the use of hand fish spears and spearguns along the metropolitan coast.
“Spearfishing is now allowed within the following two areas – within 100m of the immediate southern side of the Outer Harbor breakwater, and the area of coast between Kingston Park/Marino Rocks and Hallett Cove,” he said.
“However, the prohibition of spearfishing within 100m of any landing, jetty or wharf located in these areas still applies.”
Professor Begg said the change followed the outcome of a recent review into spear fishing regulations requested by the Minister’s Recreational Fishing Advisory Council (MRFAC).
“The old ban covered the use of hand fish spears and spearguns to fish along the metropolitan coast from Outer Harbor to Witton Bluff, just past Christies Beach,” he said.
“The new regulations were developed following consultations with relevant stakeholder groups, including the MRFAC, recreational fishing bodies, State Government Departments, coastal councils and other coastal user groups.
“The amendments to the regulations have been developed to ensure spear fishing will be allowed in such a way to make it as safe as possible for all users of the area, including swimmers, snorkellers and divers,” Professor Begg said.
Further information on spear fishing areas along the metropolitan Adelaide coastline, including maps, can be accessed at this PS News link.
