A critical decline in sand flathead numbers has led to a temporary fishing ban in southern Tasmania, sparking a debate among locals.
From March 1st, the Tasmanian government will close the south-east sand flathead zone, a move that has divided opinions. Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce explained that the population has been in decline since 2022, when it was classified as depleted. Scientists have determined that the population has plummeted to a mere 5% of its ideal size, a situation described as "severely declined."
"We want to ensure future generations can enjoy this iconic fish," Pearce said, "and a temporary closure is necessary to achieve that."
But here's where it gets controversial... The government is investing $1.2 million in a restocking and relocation program led by the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS). The focus will be on Tasmania's south-eastern waters, as this area is of utmost concern. Sean Tracey, lead researcher at IMAS, believes the closure will allow them to initiate the restocking process, which aims to align with the sand flathead's natural spawning cycles in spring and summer.
And this is the part most people miss... The decline in sand flathead numbers has been a concern for years. This species is highly popular among recreational anglers, accounting for about 50% of the catch in the south-east. In 2022, IMAS researchers warned that the reproductive potential of sand flathead populations, particularly in the south and east, had fallen below critical levels. Nils Krueck, the lead researcher at the time, described the depletion as "the most interesting and depressing find" of that year's fishery assessment.
In response, catch limits and size restrictions were introduced, with hefty fines imposed on rule-breakers. Tasmania Police warned in November 2023, "You can also expect to have your catch seized. Depending on the extent of the offending, seizures can also include equipment and vessels."
The Tasmanian Association for Recreational Fishing (TARFish) initially supported these changes, acknowledging the need to protect the species. However, in a recent Facebook post, TARFish expressed disappointment, stating, "all rec fishers should be disgusted by today's announcement."
Janie Finlay, Tasmanian Labor's shadow Primary Industries Minister, blamed the decision on more than a decade of mismanagement, saying the government had been "missing in action" since funding a recovery program in 2022. On the other hand, Craig Garland, a former professional fisherman and Independent Braddon MP, supported the government's move, emphasizing the need for bold action to protect this depleted stock.
The new rules can be found on the Fishing Tasmania website (https://fishing.tas.gov.au/community/flathead-for-the-future/new-rules-and-research-to-rebuild-tasmanias-sand-flathead-fishery).
So, what do you think? Is this a necessary step to protect the sand flathead population, or is it an unfair burden on recreational fishers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
