Some of the temporary restrictions brought in for recreational and charter fishers in response to the algal bloom have been lifted.
Recreational and charter boat fishers can once again catch full bag, boat and passenger catch limits for blue swimmer crabs and southern garfish in Spencer Gulf, and restrictions on migratory finfish species in the Gulf St Vincent and Kangaroo Island Fishing Zone have also been eased.
The migratory finfish species include Australian herring, barracouta, mulloway, southern bluefin tuna, Western Australian salmon and yellowtail kingfish.
The precautionary restrictions came into effect on 1 November and were aimed at assisting the recovery of fish stocks from algal bloom impacts.
All other temporary recreational bag, boat and charter boat passenger fishing limits remain in place. For further details on all fishing limits visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing (external site).
The easing of restrictions follows the latest scientific review of fish stocks which indicates blue swimmer crab and southern garfish stocks are performing sustainably in Spencer Gulf.
The State Government will continue to regularly review the temporary restrictions in line with scientific evidence.
Recreational fishers are also strongly encouraged to assist the scientific effort by reporting their catches via the SA Fishing app (external site).
RecFishSA Executive Officer Asher Dezsery said the recreational fishing sector "is confident the state government is following through on commitments made to the South Australian public: To explore, assess and remain dynamic with fisheries management during the current environmental circumstances".
"South Australian fisheries and our gulfs are unique - and this presents an opportunity to simultaneously protect, foster and rebuild fisheries stocks, whilst enabling the continuation of important fishing activities that form the very culture of the South Australian summer," Mr Dezsery said.
"RecFish SA will continue to work alongside the SA Government to create opportunity for growth and environmental outcomes during this challenging time."
The news comes as the State Government urged South Australians to support local seafood retailers and use Dining Cashback vouchers this Christmas.
Through the Summer Plan Dining Cashback program, tens of thousands of South Australians can also save 50 per cent (maximum $50 reimbursement) on their seafood purchases and coastal dining at participating businesses each month throughout summer.
For full terms and conditions and details on how to enter the ballot, go to www.southaustralia.com/diningcashback (external site).
