Blue cod season could be shortened

Overfishing in the Marlborough Sounds is putting too much pressure on blue cod numbers, despite catch limitations over the last decade.

Worried experts are considering extending the seasonal closure in a bid to increase the sustainability of the popular fishery.

Fisheries New Zealand is seeking feedback on the proposal which could see the closure extended by almost a month.

"We’re considering a range of options and management tools to address overfishing and increase abundance of blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds," director fisheries management says Emma Taylor.

She adds high fishing levels, especially in the summer, combined with marine heatwaves and sedimentation issues is affecting fish health.

The current season runs from1 September – 19 December. Proposals could see the date extended to either 31 December, 5 January or 15 January.

Ministry of Primary Industries are asking for public feedback on the proposals which would come into effect from the end of 2025.

A survey in 2021 revealed fishing in the area was “significantly higher” than could be sustainably supported. This saw the commercial catch limit reduced.

An advisory group of tangata whenua, fishers, and local residents was also formed to identify measures to reduce fishing pressure and increase abundance in the fishery.

The group met throughout 2023 and identified several potential measures to improve sustainability and abundance for the fishery.

• closure of spawning areas to fishing to rebuild spawning populations
• reduction of the combined daily bag limit for finfish in the area
• options to increase information on recreational fishing, such as voluntary catch reporting
• an educational campaign to improve fishing practices
• tools to mitigate release mortality.

"Marlborough Sounds blue cod are a taonga, and iconic for many Kiwis. We want to hear from fishers, tangata whenua, the local community, and anyone else with an interest in the fishery," says Emma.

Submissions can be made online or by mail until 5pm on 1 December 2024.

There will be 2 public drop-in information sessions to present information and assist with making submissions:

• Tasman Bay Cruising Club in Nelson/Whakatū on Tuesday 12 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm)
• Queen Charlotte Yacht Club in Picton/Waitohi on Thursday 14 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm).

For further information and general enquiries, email [email protected]