A World-Class Fishery With Global Recognition
Queensland’s inshore flats are rapidly gaining international attention as one of the most exciting and diverse shallow-water fisheries in the world. The region’s emerging reputation as a premier saltwater flats fishing destination places it alongside iconic global fisheries in the Caribbean, Seychelles, and the United States. Anglers travel from around the world to experience the challenge of sight-casting to permit, golden trevally, and other flats species in Queensland’s clear, expansive shallows. Protecting this fishery is essential to preserving its growing status and long-term potential.
In addition, Queensland’s coastal flats provide great fishing for everyone, from kids and families through to the dedicated sport angler. And they underpin fishing across the entire system.
Significant Economic & Social Value for Communities and Tourism
Local economies are underpinned by tourism. Local businesses depend on recreational anglers who inject over $1.48 billion annually into regional QLD economies.
Abundant fish stocks and the “world-class” fishery reputation are a driver of destination choice.
It’s the local charter operators, tackle stores, motels, pubs, cafes, restaurants, transport providers and more, who will pay the price of reduced or depleted fish stocks.
And the local families who just want to catch a fish off the shore, or take their boat for a spin.
An enormous net, with operators harvesting thousands of fish, will also impact on the incredible natural beauty of our waters. For example, it will be highly visible to locals or visitors who might see it from the water, the shore, lookouts and roads.
The economic returns of a thriving recreational fishery far exceed any limited, short-term gains offered by new commercial tunnel netting operations.
