The NSW Government has been very active of late with a review of the dusky flathead size and bag limit laws, proposed changes to the crabbing methods in Lake Macquarie and more recently the release of the Draft Marine Park Management Plan.
As we are surrounded by the largest marine park in mainland NSW I would encourage all those who care for the future of Port Stephens, to involve yourself in the process by completing a survey. Open till 31st January 2022 you can visit the survey www.marine.nsw.gov.au/yoursay
One review that will soon be added to the list is that of laws relating to mulloway. Currently classified as ‘in decline’ the mulloway population in Port Stephens is considered to be healthy with excellent catches being reported from Karuah, the Salamander wreck and the deep water west of Middle Island off Soldiers Point. Experienced fishers, however, who target the fish, do suggest that the average size of the mulloway has definitely declined over the past decade.
Taking advantage of my new-found freedom I spent a couple of weeks in my hometown of Tweed Heads. As much as I feel that the Tweed is a wonderful place it’s great to be home in Fingal Bay.
Fishing writer, author and radio presenter John “Stinker” Clarke can be heard weekly, throughout NSW, on popular ABC Regional Radio fishing program “The Big Fish”. Check him out on www.stinker.com.au or send an email to editor@manningcommunitynews.com with your information and questions.