Annual Trout Fishing Closure Commences After June Long Weekend
Recreational fishers are reminded that the annual fishing closure in trout streams and rivers across NSW is in place from Tuesday, 11 June 2024.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Senior Fisheries Manager for Fish Stocking and Enhancement, Matthew McLellan, stated that the annual closure allows salmonid species to breed uninterrupted during their spawning run.
“The four-month closure ensures we protect our fishing assets for future seasons,” Mr. McLellan said.
Fishing During the Closure
During this time, recreational fishers can still enjoy fishing at popular trout dams across NSW such as:
- Lake Jindabyne and Eucumbene Dam in the Snowy Mountains
- Oberon Dam near Bathurst
- Talbingo Dam near Tumut
- Malpas Dam near Armidale
Fishers can also enjoy quality angling in the Macquarie River (excluding tributaries above its junction with, and including, Lewis Ponds Creek) and the Turon River and tributaries (below the Upper Turon Road crossing).
The fishing season for trout and salmon in trout rivers and streams will re-open on Saturday, 5 October 2024, coinciding with the start of the October long weekend.
Trout Fishing Rules
Detailed information on trout fishing rules can be found on the DPI website, NSW DPI FishSMART app, and the NSW Freshwater Fishing Guide, which is available from NSW DPI Fisheries offices and most bait and tackle stores.
Compliance and Regulations
NSW DPI Director Fisheries Compliance, Dr. Andrew Moriarty, emphasised that it is an offence to fish in trout streams during the closed season.
“DPI Fisheries Officers will be patrolling the State’s inland waterways throughout the trout closure period to ensure compliance,” Dr. Moriarty said.
Fishers heading to any trout dams this winter are reminded that they must have a current NSW recreational fishing fee receipt (fishing licence) on them at all times while fishing.
A combined bag limit of five and a size limit of 25 cm applies to trout or salmon in all trout dams, except in artificial fly and lure dams where the bag limit is two.
Reporting Illegal Fishing Activity
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536 or via the NSW DPI website.
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