Recreational Fishing Survey and News

We see that NT Fisheries have kicked off their 2009 / 2009 recreational fishing survey here in Nhulunbuy. The last survey of recreational fishing activity in the NT occurred in 2000/2001. The primary focus of the survey is to collect data on catch, effort and participation rates in recreational fishing. However the survey will also collect relevant information on demographics, economic activity, attitudes and awareness in recreational fishing.

Anglers can participate in 2 ways. A telephone/diary survey that will collect information on NT residents and a series of on-site surveys that will assess visitor information.

The resident survey will have three distinct phases: screening survey; diary survey; and attitudinal survey opinions on a range of recreational fisheries issues.

Visitor information concerning recreational fishing will be compiled using on-site surveys at boat ramps and other strategic points across the NT.

At the completion of the survey period the data will be processed, extrapolated and analysed before a final report is produced. The final report from the recreational fishing survey should be available in late 2010.

If anglers are randomly contacted by survey personnel, please participate in the survey and provide as much information as possible. Even non-fishers and “once-a-year” fishers need to participate so that NT Fisheries and the decisions makers can get the most accurate data possible.

On the fishing scene, the great weather has been with us for a few weeks now and the catches reported have been very good. One of the most productive areas has been between Bonner rocks and west woody just north of the refinery. Sailfish have still been tagged and released with plenty of bait along the 20 mtr mark. North from Veronica Island has produced some good sized reds and 2 boats made the trip down to Cape Arnhem returned with their fair share of mixed reef fish last weekend. Make the most of it before the dreaded south easterlies return with vengeance for the dry season. Then it’s off down the creeks until September or October before the outer reefs are accessible once again. Watch out for the winds picking up later in the week and don’t forget to “phone a friend” and let them know your departure, destination and return details.

Tight Lines.

Peter Cox
0417 879 031