Queensland government looks to increase Spanish mackerel catch limits

Download IPFS

The Queensland Government has proposed increasing Spanish mackerel catch limits after a 2025 stock assessment revealed the population has likely doubled since its 2021 review. Under the proposal, the recreational boat limit that is, how many fish an individual boat may legally retain would rise from two to four fish per boat. Meanwhile, the commercial total allowable catch, meaning the annual quota for licensed commercial operators, would increase by 51.5 percent, from 165 tonnes to 250 tonnes. These figures remain provisional pending public consultation, with changes expected to be formalised by year’s end. 

Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the proposed adjustments strike a careful balance between consumer and commercial interests and long-term sustainability. He stressed that these recommendations stem from “robust and reliable scientific processes” conducted under the current government’s oversight, which has replaced previous stock assessment protocols. 

LNP Member of Parliament Stephen Bennett added that the increased commercial quota could contribute approximately $3.5 million in gross production value to the Queensland economy, particularly boosting regional coastal communities and local businesses tied to the fishing industry.

However, the proposal has drawn criticism from conservation experts. Simon Miller of the Australian Marine Conservation Society cautioned that the stock still only reaches about 34 percent of its original unfished levels, falling short of the 40 percent benchmark many regard as sustainable. Miller warned that the government’s decision to lower the long-term target from 60 percent to 48 percent could undermine resilience in the fishery, especially amid climate pressures. 

The government has pledged to initiate a period of public consultation through the Department of Primary Industries, allowing stakeholders including environmental groups and fishing operators to weigh in. Until that process concludes, existing limits will remain in force.