Fish & Game Involved In Developing Sustainable Recreational Fishing

Since February, North Canterbury Fish & Game’s Steve Terry has been one of 66 participants engaged in securing the future of recreational fishing in New Zealand.

The ‘Fishin Future Search’ project recognised that the need for recreational fishers to work together, towards the promotion and protection of responsible fishing, is even more imperative TODAY.

Terry, who is responsible for salmon and trout management in North Canterbury, believes this new body offers significant benefits to Fish & Game, as “salmon spend most of their life in the ocean, before returning to fresh water to spawn and create a new life cycle.”

This is a unique opportunity to be involved in developing positive change in all aspects of the marine ecosystem. He says “This is the starting point for developing a blue print for sustainable recreational fishing advocacy for all marine species and all New Zealanders.”

Mr Terry, a member of the steering committee also stated that it was important to be involved because as a Fish & Game field officer “I am not only interested in the sustainability of the fresh water sports fishery, but also the marine environment as I am a passionate recreational angler.”

Don Boddie, Chair of the steering committee says “Our first objective was to publish a report, recording the journey leading up to the Nelson conference and to outline to our fishing communities, the shared vision for the future and the way forward agreed at Nelson”. 

“We will participate in the proposed discussion that the Minister has signalled in the media last week; concerning the state of the Snapper fishery in Auckland and the Bay of Plenty,” says Boddie.

The ‘FishinFuture’ Search project will encompass all user groups including shell fish harvesting, spear fishermen, sports fishermen, and those interested in food gathering. The findings will also benefit tourism, and many other ocean based activity providers.

You can access the FishinFuture Search project and their report on www.fishinfuturesearch.co.nz”

ENDS

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