Recreational fishers’ safety over marine protection
The Tautuku Recreational Fishing Club is another strong supporter of Fish Mainland
https://www.facebook.com/Tautuku-Fishing-Club-133282293395102/
The Tautuku Club’s submission on the southeast MPA proposals highlights its support for marine protection so long as it does not adversely impact on the safety of recreational fishers and access to their longstanding fishing areas.
The Club’s submission states that several areas identified for Type 1 MPAs would result in recreational fishers being displaced from their longstanding fishing areas and having to travel a large distance offshore before being able to fish. This would create significant safety concerns, particularly for families using smaller-sized boats.
The submission also states the proposed Type 1 MPA at Ōrau is good example. “These safety considerations are not to be understated, as in our experience the swells in this area are large and the sea conditions very changeable. The need to travel too far from shore will put our members at risk.”
“This area also offers several unique launching points close to Dunedin city that provide recreational fishers and their families the opportunity to get out fishing during an appropriate weather window (for example Tomahawk Beach).”
“Locations which provide this opportunity must be preserved and proximity to residential areas maintained. It is this proximity which promotes recreational fishing opportunities.”
