02 February 2010

Minister for Fisheries Kon Vatskalis has reminded anglers about the official opening of the 2010 barramundi season this week.
Mr Vatskalis also released concept plans today for the NT Government’s $4 million upgrades to the Palmerston Boat Ramp.
“Territorians love to fish, and the NT Government continues to expand and create opportunities for better recreational fishing in the Territory,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“This is why I was pleased to announce the purchase of the fourth commercial barramundi license last year, closing off commercial fishing in Bynoe Harbour and Finniss River.”
The commercial barramundi fishery operates from 1 February to 30 September each year. It is closed between October and February each year to help protect breeding stocks.
“Barramundi gather at the mouths of the Territory’s rivers for spawning before each wet season making them easy targets - the closure months ensure the fish are given the greatest chance to breed successfully,” Mr Vatskalis said.
Mr Vatskalis said the opening of the commercial season also coincides with the opening of sections of the Mary and Daly Rivers to recreational anglers.
Anglers are reminded that recreational fishing controls, including a possession limit of 5 barramundi (2 in the Mary River Fish Management Zone) and a minimum size limit of 55cm are in place to protect barramundi stocks and ensure a high quality fishery.
Mr Vatskalis added that the NT Government had just tendered for the $4 million Palmerston Boat Ramp upgrades – an NT Government election commitment.
“Late last year I called for the public to provide submissions on what upgrades they wanted, this tender reflects public input to the concept plans.”
Mr Vatskalis said construction will include a fishing jetty, security lighting, dual lane ramp with floating pontoon, secure car park section, disabled ramp for land access to boats and car park lighting.