AFTA Chair’s Report – February 2026

ANGLERS’ RETENTION

A Call to Action for the Fishing Industry

In a report published by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), the reasons behind why anglers quit fishing and strategies to improve retention rates were explored. This report is crucial for business operators who understand that retaining customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. For those interested in delving deeper, the full report can be accessed here.

As our industry strives to expand participation, current efforts seem directed to attract young people, school children, and males, yet a significant portion of the population, women, remains largely untapped. Women often face unique challenges in participating due to competing family and work responsibilities. With International Women’s Day approaching on March 8th, there is an opportunity to make fishing more accessible and enjoyable for women. Encouraging complete families to fish together could enhance the experience and strengthen family bonds.

AFTA fully supports all state Women in Recreational Fishing programs and encourages more to be done.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

With South Australians in full election mode ahead of the March 21st election, AFTA would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Premier Peter Malinauskas for his strong personal leadership in addressing the crippling fallout from the Algal Bloom.  From the very first meeting in Aug 2025, the Premier and his team, including Minister Claire Scriven, were immediately on board with a $300k grant program to AFTA for the “Let’s Fish SA” direct engagement and education campaign, and then proactively engaged with AFTA with the $200k Junior Tacklebox Program.  The industry says thank you for your critical support in our time of need.

In a recent letter from Premier Malinauskas, he said:

“The South Australian government has been proud to partner with AFTA in rolling out the Let’s Fish SA campaign – driving traffic to fishing and tackle stores and encouraging the community to continue engaging in recreational fishing.

I am also pleased to hear of the initial positive rollout of the Junior Tackle Box program, which provides a free kids tackle box alongside eligible purchases in participating stores.”

As we receive policies from any political party that affect the recreational sector, AFTA will publish them as they become available.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Major new measures were announced in December 2025 for Western Australia’s West Coast Region, aimed at protecting vulnerable demersal scalefish stocks such as dhufish and pink snapper.

In response, AFTA approached Minister Jarvis to propose a program inspired by South Australia’s “Let’s Fish SA” campaign, which sought to involve and educate recreational fishers in the region. However, Minister Jarvis confirmed that funds for such initiatives are already committed, with further financial support only possible in the 2027 Budget. Regardless, AFTA continues to collaborate with the government to secure the future of the recreational tackle sector.

To ease the transition, the Western Australian government has implemented a $29.2 million fisheries support package over two years, allocating funds as follows:

• $20 million for the Compulsory Fisheries Adjustment Scheme, which will compensate commercial operators exiting the fishery through the purchase of commercial line and gillnet licences in the West Coast Region.
• $3.3 million to enhance alternative recreational fishing options, including rebates for tackle purchases via ServiceWA, encouraging anglers to pursue non-demersal species.
• $2 million to fund an educational campaign promoting the new rules, strengthening compliance, and fostering responsible angling in both metropolitan and regional communities.
• $2 million for the development of statewide boat ramp infrastructure and the installation of covert remote cameras to bolster monitoring and enforcement.
• $1.9 million to improve alternative recreational fishing opportunities through the deployment and upkeep of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), attracting a broader range of species.

This comprehensive support package builds upon a previous $10 million recovery initiative launched in 2022, which focused on education, awareness, artificial reefs, and ongoing stock monitoring in the West Coast Bioregion.

Amidst ongoing political manoeuvres by the Liberal and National opposition in Western Australia, the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has sought clarification regarding the coalition’s position on reopening the West Coast bio region to commercial fishing. This query comes in light of the government’s acquisition of the remaining 41 commercial demersal fishing licences in the area and the current plan to designate the region exclusively for recreational fishing.

AFTA has emphasised the long-term benefits of maintaining the West Coast region for recreational fishing only, noting that the shift supports the continued growth of recreational fishing activities. The West Coast region, spanning approximately 900 kilometres from Augusta to Kalbarri, will be the only area along Western Australia’s nearly 13,000-kilometre coastline to be permanently closed to commercial demersal fishing. The transition is scheduled for spring 2026, when the region will officially reopen as an exclusive recreational fishing zone.

Approximately 90 percent of Western Australia’s recreational fishers reside in the West Coast region, which includes major centres such as Perth, Fremantle, Rockingham, Mandurah, Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River and Geraldton. These fishers contribute over $2 billion annually to the state’s Gross State Product, signalling a positive outcome for the community and the broader economy.

Western Australia comprises five key fishing regions: the Southern Region, West Coast Region, Gascoyne Region, Pilbara Region, and Kimberley Region. While the West Coast region is the only area affected by permanent demersal fishing closures, commercial and recreational fishing remain available in the other regions.

Although AFTA has expressed reservations about the demersal closures, the association acknowledges the potential advantages, including opportunities to target other species. Importantly, the changes do not impact shore-based line fishers, ensuring continued access for a broad spectrum of recreational fishing enthusiasts.

Ministerial Advisory Committee Announced

Congratulations to Minister Jarvis for establishing the West Coast Demersal Ministerial Advisory Committee, which will provide recommendations to the State Government on the future management of recreational fishing to balance a return to boat-based fishing with continued protection for fish stocks to support recovery.  This was on the AFTA election manifesto at the last election.

The advisory committee is made up of recreational fishing representatives Matt Gillett (Recfishwest), Ashley Ramm (Tackleworld Miami & AFTA Ambassador), Jamie Chester, David Hilton, and Emma George; charter operators Michelle Howard and Cherie Abbott; and science and conservation experts Tim Langlois and Adrian Meder. Matt Gillett will chair it.

For more details, click here.

TASMANIA

Tasmania’s Sand Flathead Fishery Faces Controversy Over Emergency Closure

The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has joined forces with the Tasmanian Association for Recreational Fishing (TARFish) to oppose the emergency closure of Tasmania’s sand flathead fishery, set to take effect six months before the September report release. In a letter to Minister Gavin Pearce, AFTA criticised the use of emergency powers under the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995, arguing they are unjustified given the strong recruitment and multiple reproductive year classes observed.

AFTA, TARFish & the BIA met with the Department and Minister Pearce to raise our serious concerns about the issue.

AFTA supports TARFish’s report, authored by Dr Paul McShane, which states there is no immediate threat to sand flathead stocks. Recent surveys indicate continued strong recruitment, contradicting the need for emergency measures. AFTA calls for an immediate pause on the closure to allow a proper review of management settings, as promised during the 2025 election campaign by the Liberal Party, the Labor Party, and the Independent Member for Franklin, David O’Byrne.

The closure, which bypasses key advisory bodies and lacks stakeholder consultation, threatens local economies, including tackle shops and tourism businesses.

AFTA urged Minister Pearce to delay the closure, to engage with stakeholders, and fulfil election promises for a comprehensive review.  It is regrettable that Minister Pearce has decided to ignore the pleas of industry and recreational fishers.

AFTA, TARFish and the BIA encourage recreational fishers to advocate for this pause and support local businesses.

Read the Letter to the Minister here.

In summary;

The sand flathead closure will commence on March 1st 2026 in a new south-eastern zone. In this zone, the following rules apply:

• You cannot take sand flathead (Bag limit – 0).
• You cannot possess sand flathead (On-water possession limit – 0).
• All species of flathead, Sand Flathead, Tiger Flathead, Rock Flathead & Southern Bluespot Flathead must be landed whole or as fillets with intact frames (head and tail attached).

The south-eastern zone is all water between a north-south line at Whale Head (146°52’15”) and a north-south line at Cape Pillar (148°00’41”), including the entirety of the previous D’Entrecasteaux Channel, Derwent River, Frederick Henry and Norfolk Bays Zone.   The northern boundary of the south-eastern zone is the southern end of the Dunalley Canal.

This rule applies statewide.

VICTORIA

Murray-Darling Carp Action Summit Set to Tackle Invasive Species Crisis

There is absolutely no doubt that Australia’s Murray-Darling river system, including its tributaries, has long been decimated by the invasive non-native carp.   The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), in partnership with the Australian River Restoration Centre (ARRC), will host the Murray-Darling Carp Action Summit this April at the Lake Nagambie Function Centre in Victoria.

This invitation-only event is designed to unite leading experts, community representatives, industry stakeholders, and government leaders in developing a coordinated response to Australia’s escalating carp problem.

AFTA will be represented at the summit, ensuring the recreational fishing sector’s voice is heard.

Despite research into carp biocontrol dating back to 1977, which ultimately informed the National Carp Control Plan in 2022, implementation has stalled. Unlike other invasive species, carp still lack both a national threat abatement plan and an integrated control program. In the meantime, carp numbers have ballooned, comprising up to 90% of the fish biomass in parts of the Murray–Darling Basin, causing ecological, economic, and social damage estimated at up to $500 million per year. Flood events continue to fuel the spread, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action.

With attendance capped at around 100 delegates, the one-day summit will be facilitated by the ARRC. The program features expert presentations, interactive discussions, a boat tour with an electrofishing demonstration, and an optional visit to the recently expanded Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery, which is projected to produce 6 million native fish annually. The summit’s primary goal is to forge a collaborative alliance and establish practical next steps for effective carp management across the Murray-Darling Basin.

AFTA remains committed to advocating for meaningful solutions and will keep members informed on outcomes and opportunities arising from this important initiative.

We need a similar positive direction from all basin states and the federal government.

NEW SOUTH WALES

International Women’s Day 2026 – Come Fish With Us program

The NSW Government’s Fishcare team will be celebrating International Women’s Day 2026 on the 8th  March with a series of dedicated FREE fishing days, aimed at empowering women to reel in new experiences across NSW.

The workshops are being held on 6-8 March and will cater for beginners through to experienced anglers looking to meet other like-minded women. All gear is supplied, and everyone is encouraged to bring lots of enthusiasm for a fun-filled day! Children are welcome, and all participants will receive some goodies to take home to help continue their fishing adventures.

Locations this year include Coffs Harbour, Balmain, Gosford, Pooncarie and Chaffey Dam.  Book your spot at Come Fish with Us .

NSW Fishing License – Fee Rip-Off with extra charges

The NSW Government is also reminding fishers not to take the bait from non-Government websites when buying their NSW fishing licence this autumn and Easter period. The fishing has been hot this summer across NSW, and if you’re planning an upcoming trip, please remember that the Service NSW website is the ONLY official site for paying your NSW Recreational Fishing Fee.

We are aware that non-government websites have been offering to purchase fishing licences for you, but they’re charging unnecessary service fees.

The official NSW recreational fishing fees are:

•           $7 for 3 days
•           $14 for 1 month
•           $35 for 1 year
•           $85 for 3 years

The Service NSW website does not charge any extra fees, and the process takes just 3 minutes! Plus, you can link your 1-year or 3-year licence directly to the Service NSW app and fish instantly with your digital receipt. Don’t fall for unnecessary fees! Only use the official Service NSW website to pay for your licence –  Service NSW Fishing Licence.

For more info on NSW fishing fees and exclusions, visit the NSW DPI Recreational Fishing Fee.

For detailed information regarding how NSW licence fees are utilised, please refer to NSW DPI Licence Fees at Work.

QUEENSLAND

Barramundi Netting in Region 5

Following the Australian Fishing Trade Association’s (AFTA) Submission to the Queensland Department of Primary Industries regarding proposed regulatory changes for commercial barramundi netting in Southeast Queensland (Region 5), we were invited to a TEAMS meeting to discuss the process and advocate for our preferred outcomes.

Throughout, AFTA has consistently expressed its strong support for reinstating pre-January 2024 arrangements to prevent ecological harm, reduce uncertainty and restore public confidence.

Our key recommendations are:

• Reinstate the prohibition on targeting or retaining barramundi with gill nets in Region 5.
• Implement an immediate decision or temporary harvest suspension to prevent exploitation during the regulatory gap.
• Review the King Threadfin quota. Current settings are based on outdated peak catch data and don’t reflect the species’ variable recruitment in southern Queensland.
• Remove gill nets entirely from Region 5. This aligns with management practices across the wider east coast and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
• Prioritise long-term stock sustainability under a precautionary, evidence-based framework.

FishLIGHT program – objection to tunnel net commercial fishing gear trials

AFTA, alongside North Queensland Fly Fishers’ Club, ANSA (Qld), Sunfish, The Inshore Flats Project, Brisbane Fly Fishing Club, and the Queensland Recreational Fishing Network, have submitted their objection to tunnel net commercial fishing gear trials through a formal representation to the Queensland Minister for Primary Industries. See Submission here: https://afta.net.au/objection-to-tunnel-net-fishing-gear-trials/

Queensland Fishing and Seafood Action Plan Update

As Chair of the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA), I had the privilege of representing our organisation at a recent Recreational Fishing Webinar focused on the Queensland Fishing and Seafood Action Plan.

Hosted in collaboration with the Queensland Recreational Fishing Network (QRFN), the online session brought together representatives from recreational fishing groups, individual fishers, and industry stakeholders to articulate key priorities for Queensland’s recreational fishing sector. This collective input is set to directly inform the development of a five-year Action Plan, ensuring initiatives are thoughtfully designed, adequately resourced, and implemented through collaborative efforts that align with the sector’s needs and long-term growth objectives.

Participants were carefully selected through consultations with leaders in recreational and charter fishing, prioritising those with substantial experience, valuable insights, and a proven dedication to constructive, respectful dialogue. Attendees were urged to express their views candidly while embracing the diversity of opinions, fostering outcomes that are well-informed and forward-looking for Queensland’s recreational and charter fishing community and industry.

Among the key proposals discussed during the webinar were:

• The establishment of a Queensland Peak Body for recreational fishing – a policy AFTA has advocated as an election commitment in the past two cycles.
• The introduction of licensing or compulsory registration for recreational fishers, with the caveat that the Queensland Government has explicitly ruled out any new or increased fees or taxes.
• Designation of recreational-only species to enhance sector-specific protections.
• Strategies to address shark depredation and its impact on fishing activities.
• Reforms related to netting practices.
• Initiatives promoting environmental stewardship to support sustainable fishing.

AFTA is keenly awaiting the draft report for comment.

ELECTION CALENDAR

• South Australia: March 21st 2026
• Victoria: November 28th 2026
• NSW: March 13th 2027
• Federal: May 2028
• Northern Territory: August 23rd 2028
• Queensland: October 28th 2028
• Western Australia: March 10th 2029
• Tasmania: 2029