The NT Minister for Fisheries, Kon Vatskalis, is reminding recreational anglers that changes to the Northern Territory fish possession limits take effect from Friday 1 January

“Recreational fishing is a major part of our great Territory lifestyle and an important contributor to our economy; however we must ensure that our fish stocks are properly managed,” Minister Vatskalis said.

“These changes will ensure that anglers continue to experience first class fishing opportunities now and into the future by protecting the long term sustainability of fish stocks.”

From January 1st the changes to recreational fishing possession bag limits are:

· Black jewfish from five to two

· Spanish mackerel from five to two

· A new possession limit of 30 cherabin and/or red claw yabbies

· The introduction of a boat limit of 10 freshwater pots per vessel (when two or more people are on board)

· A requirement for turtle excluder rings in freshwater pots

· A possession limit of three sharks of any species, including a prohibition on the take of sawfish

· A prohibition on the recreational take of giant clams

The changes were announced in early 2009 after extensive public consultation with recreational anglers.

More information on the changes to possession limits can be found by visiting

www.nt.gov.au/d/Fisheries