Herring species bag limit increased by DPIRD in October for summer recreational fishing in Western Australia

Recreational beach fishermen could have more fish in the freezer this summer after a draft legislation was approved to increase the daily bag limit for an on-shore fish species in WA.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will draft legislation lifting the Australian Herring bag limit from 12 to 20 fish. The current bag limit of 12 a day remains in place until October 1, 2022.

Herring are found in west and south coastal waters from Shark Bay through to South Australia and even Victoria.

A 2013 report found WA herring stock was under pressure and a bag limit of 12 a day was enforced in 2015. Recfishwest requested to increase the daily bag limit after indication of successful management in 2021.

McBoats owner Peter McGowan said the bag limit wouldn’t appeal to commercial fishermen, and although the species were more popular on the south coast, they could still be caught in the west coast.

“Herring is more an accidental catch while fishing for whiting and tailor,” he said.

Fisheries Minister Don Punch said it was fantastic for recreational fishers and would improve fishing experiences.

“Both recreational and commercial fishers are to be congratulated for their roles in the herring stock recovery,” he said.

“They are now enjoying the benefits of their commitment to the recovery and ongoing sustainability of the Australian herring resource, with more herring available for recreational fishers and for commercial fishers to supply for human consumption.”