The annual four-month Murray crayfish open season begins on Thursday 1 May and anglers should ensure they know the rules for catching this prized native species, Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald said today.

Minister Macdonald said regular patrols would be conducted to check that anglers were following the rules, which aim to ensure Murray crayfish are harvested sustainably.

“The species is found mainly in the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Edward Rivers and needs to be protected from over-fishing because of its slow growth rate,” he said.

NSW DPI Supervising Fisheries Officer South West Zone, Peter Tilbrook, said anglers should remember that they need a NSW Fishing Licence to fish in the Murray and all other NSW waters.

“Our officers in southern NSW will again be out in force during the Murray crayfish season to ensure the rules are being followed,” he said.

“Most fishers adhere to the Murray crayfish rules which should ensure the sustainability of the species. Crayfish measuring devices and advisory material are freely available from DPI Fisheries offices and most tackle outlets.”

Fishers are reminded of the main rules:

* A daily bag limit of five applies to Murray crayfish with a total of 10 in possession. They must have a carapace (head) length of at least nine centimetres long, but only one crayfish greater than 12 centimetres may be kept.
* Murray crayfish can only be taken during the months of May, June, July and August.
* A ban applies to taking Murray crayfish in trout waters.
* Any female crayfish taken that are carrying eggs must be returned to the water immediately. Removing claws, head or tail in, on or adjacent to water, is also banned.
* Five hoop nets per person are permitted with the user’s name and address on the float.

Media contact: Sarah Chester (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669