Reels continue to peel this tuna season
26 May 2017
Recreational anglers and charter boat operators are encouraged to get out on the water and continue to enjoy chasing southern bluefin tuna as the season ramps up.
The 2017 tuna season has been an excellent one so far with reports of large schools of the prize fish moving closer to shore giving many lucky anglers the chance to reel in a big one.
Portland Fisheries Officer, Cameron McCallum, said fisheries staff from across the state will continue to carefully patrol the waters to ensure everyone is acting responsibly and enjoying the season.
"With the tuna season now in full swing we are reminding people to fish responsibly, know their limits and take only what they need so everyone has a better shot at hooking a Bluefin" Mr McCallum said.
Anglers are reminded to fully acquaint themselves with Victoria's tuna fishing rules prior to departing:
- A daily catch limit of two southern bluefin tuna per person, which must be landed whole or in carcass form and not filleted;
- A possession limit of two whole southern bluefin tuna (or more than 160kg in any other form) per person applies anywhere in Victoria including your car, boat or home; and
- Holding a valid recreational fishing licence, unless exempt.
Mr McCallum said Fisheries staff from across the state will have a particular focus on patrolling Victoria's southwest tuna hot spots including waters around Portland, Warrnambool and Port Fairy.
"A pair of eight metre rigid hull inflatable patrol boats and a fixed wing aircraft undertaking aerial surveillance will help officers inspect small and large vessels inshore and further afield to the continental shelf," Mr McCallum said.
"In addition, Officers will be undertaking plain-clothed surveillance and inspections of recreational and charter boats back at launching ramps and key access points."
Mr McCallum said the 2017 Recreational Fishing Guide outlines everything tuna anglers need to know, as does the free 'Vic Fishing' smartphone app.
"We are also encouraging everyone to look after their tuna catch so it arrives home in peak condition for the family dinner table.
"That means minimising the fight time, despatching the fish humanely and taking plenty of ice aboard to chill the catch quickly."