Refreshed fish measuring stations help recreational fishers stay informed

Recreational fishers in South Australia will find it easier to access the latest fishing rules and regulations thanks to refreshed Fish Measuring Station signage being rolled out across the state.

The upgraded stations link people to the SA Fishing App or website, providing quick access to current size, bag, boat, gear and fishing closure information. The initiative will assist fishers to stay informed and compliant whilst fishing along the state’s coastline, helping ensure there will be fish for the future.

The refresh comes in response to frequent changes to fishing rules in recent months following the unprecedented algal bloom event, which required rapid fish stock assessments and updates to commercial and recreational fishing rules to help ensure the sustainability of South Australia's fisheries. PIRSA is currently finalising the installation of the new signage on approximately 60 fish measuring stations at key fishing locations across South Australia. Each station will feature QR codes linking directly to both PIRSA's recreational fishing webpage and the SA Fishing app.

For nearly three decades, fishers have relied on the traditional measuring station signage to check their catch. However, the increasing need for timely updates due to the algal bloom and associated fishery management responses, highlighted the need for a more digital approach. The new measuring station signs will still include a ruler for fishers to measure their catch.

Traditional Fish Measuring Station species-specific signage often required sticker overlays whenever size, bag or boat limits changed. These stickers were prone to weather damage and vandalism and required ongoing maintenance to ensure information remained current.

In addition to the new digital based signage, updated tailored signs for key King George Whiting and Southern Calamari closures are also being rolled out at key locations. These initiatives complement updated QR based signage being erected along the State’s inland waterways.

Members of the public can report illegal fishing activity, shark sightings and other fishing-related issues by contacting Fishwatch on 1800 065 522 or through the SA Fishing app.