Freshwater fishers will again be able to target Murray cod this summer when the season opens on Monday December 1 following the annual three-month breeding closure.
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Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Inland Fisheries manager Cameron Westaway said the native Murray cod was a prized catch for recreational fishers in the Murray-Darling system.
"Murray cod is one of Australia's largest freshwater fish, growing up to 1.8 metres and weighing more than 100 kilograms," Mr Westaway said.
"A ban on taking or attempting to take Murray cod is in place between September and November to protect this important species during its breeding season."
Mr Westaway said recreational fishers also needed to remember the new recreational slot limit of 55cm to 75cm for Murray cod in NSW.
"Recent changes now mean that while catch and release is allowed, it is a requirement to release all Murray cod caught outside the slot limit with the least possible harm," Mr Westaway said.
"The new rules should increase the number of larger cod in the system, improving both the long-term sustainability of this great recreational fishery as well as increasing the chance of catching that fish of a lifetime."
DPI Acting Director Fisheries Compliance Patrick Tully said fisheries officers would continue to monitor inland waterways, particularly during the holiday season, to ensure fishers followed all recreational fishing rules.
"A daily bag limit of two Murray cod per person per day and a total possession limit of four applies when fishing in any inland waters," Mr Tully said.
"It is important that freshwater fishers are fully aware of the fishing rules in relation to Murray cod before dropping a line.
"Fishers are encouraged to report suspected illegal fishing by contacting your local fisheries office or by phoning the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536."
Other rules relating to the Murray cod include:
Set lines cannot be used in any inland waters and are totally prohibited.
Two attended lines may be used in all inland waters except some trout and closed waters, but these lines must be within 50 metres and in your line of sight.
Live finfish including carp, birds and mammals cannot be used as bait.
More information can be found in the NSW Recreational Fishing Freshwater Fishing Guide, which is available from DPI offices and most places where NSW recreational fishing licences are sold.
