Time to speak out about blue cod rule changes

Fish Mainland’s acting Directors have been listening carefully to South Island and Stewart Island recreational fishers’ views on the blue cod rule changes enacted 1 July. Most fishers have expressed concern and even surprise about some of these changes.

The two main concerns that fishers have expressed are the requirement to land blue cod in a measurable state and the inability to transit through an area with a higher daily bag limit taken in another area.

Of course, there are also concerns about the reduction in bag limits relative to the limits in North Island waters that remain unchanged, despite implementing a ‘National’ Blue Cod Strategy.

Fish Mainland has emphasised the South Island rule changes are now law, and so fishers must comply with them. However, there is an opportunity to provide feedback, which means there is the prospect that some rules might be amended; but it won’t be quick given regulatory timeframes.

Fish Mainland’s purpose is to coordinate, represent and promote the interests of South Island and Stewart Island fishers.

We want to hear your concerns and suggested solutions so that we can coordinate your collective voice when formulating the best solutions with Fisheries New Zealand officials and the Minister of Fisheries.

You do not have to be a Fish Mainland member to contact us about any concern. However, we would appreciate you considering becoming a member for free and making what donation you can at this time.

The blue cod situation demonstrates a real need for a collective voice. Please contact us on info@fishmainland.nz or Jim Crossland, acting Chair 03 355 9433 / 021 0294 5996

Randall Bess, support role 027 314 4084