Why logging recreational catches matters for Moreton Bay fishers

From Redcliffe to Bribie Island, summer sees thousands of locals heading to waterways across the City of Moreton Bay to cast a line.

Recreational fishing remains one of Queensland’s most popular pastimes, with around one in five people taking part and an estimated four million fish caught each year.

Fisheries experts say that level of participation means everyday anglers are now playing a significant role in fish populations, particularly for popular and iconic species.

Recreational fishing on the rise

Department of Primary Industries fisheries scientist Lucas Sumpter, who is also a recreational fisher, said population growth and advances in fishing technology had increased the impact of recreational fishing.

“Thanks to population growth in Queensland and our love for fishing, we have so many more people on the water these days,” Mr Sumpter said.

“For some iconic species, the recreational catch now matches or even exceeds the commercial sector catch.”

Understanding fishing pressure

Principal Fisheries Manager Jeff Ikin said the effect of recreational fishing varied depending on the species, but it was an important factor in fisheries management.

“It does depend on the fish species, but at times it’s recreational fishers who have the biggest impact on fish populations,” Mr Ikin said.

“Understanding fishing effort from all sectors is crucial for sustainable management.”

Why catch data matters

Fisheries staff say improving the understanding of recreational fishing activity is key to managing fish stocks into the future.

The Your Catch Counts pilot encourages recreational fishers to voluntarily log their trips and catches using the Qld Fishing 2.0 app, helping build a clearer picture of fishing activity across Queensland, including Moreton Bay.

Mr Sumpter said better data supported better decision-making.

“Better data equals better modelling, and that leads to better decisions by fisheries managers,” he said.

“When recreational fishers log their catch, they’re directly providing information that improves the science behind fishing rules.”

How the information is used

Mr Ikin said when information was limited, fisheries managers had to take a cautious approach.

“In the absence of complete information, we have to act cautiously,” he said.

“But when fishers log their trips and catches, we can get a more detailed picture and manage stocks more appropriately.”

Traditional monitoring methods, such as boat ramp surveys, will continue alongside voluntary reporting.

The Your Catch Counts pilot is funded by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on behalf of the Australian Government and forms part of broader efforts to improve recreational fishing data.

More information about the Qld Fishing 2.0 app, including how to log your catches, is available on the Queensland Government website.