What’s happening?
Queensland’s recreational fishing sector continues to grow, with strong participation during the warmer months. Waterways attract families enjoying time together, friends fishing casually, and dedicated anglers targeting specific species.
Fisheries staff say the impact of recreational fishing is not the same across all species. Some fish are targeted more often because they are popular with recreational fishers, while others face less pressure.
Why it matters
Recreational fishing now carries enough influence to shape harvest strategies. Fisheries managers must understand fishing pressure from every sector to protect fish populations over time and maintain sustainable access.
Lucas Sumpter said data is central to this work.
“We can only model the data we have to understand fish populations,” he said.
Without accurate information, understanding how fish stocks change over time becomes more difficult.
Local impact
Data collected from recreational fishers feeds directly into fisheries science. This information supports decisions that affect size limits, bag limits and seasonal settings across Queensland waters.
“This is their chance to ensure the science incorporates what they see and do out on the water,” Mr Sumpter said.
By logging trips and catches, recreational fishers play an active role in shaping the rules that govern fishing.
By the numbers
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One in five Queenslanders participate in recreational fishing, showing how widespread the activity is.
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Recreational anglers catch nearly four million fish each year, contributing significantly to total harvest levels.
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For some species, recreational harvest now rivals commercial harvest, increasing its role in management decisions.
Zoom in
The Qld Fishing 2.0 app works alongside existing boat ramp surveys by capturing information submitted directly by fishers.
Jeff Ikin said the app helps build a clearer picture of fishing activity.
“We’ll continue to use boat ramp surveys to understand fish populations, and the addition of the app can help us gain a more complete image of our fisheries,” he said.
Zoom out
When data is incomplete, modelling accuracy is reduced. This forces managers to take conservative approaches to protect fish stocks.
What to look for next
Expanded data collection from recreational fishers could strengthen long-term stock assessments and improve fisheries management across Queensland waters.
