Recreational fishing in FHPAs
FHPAs may restrict both fishing and non-fishing related activities (such as the use of anchors if there is a risk of damage to fragile coral reefs or seagrass communities).
Fishers wanting to fish recreationally within an FHPA need to be aware of the recreational fishing rules that apply and if fishing is restricted in that area. The fishing rules website provides further details, as well as interactive maps of marine protected areas (MPAs) and FHPAs.
What is an FHPA?
FHPAs are a type of MPA and are designed for:
- conserving and protecting fish, fish breeding areas, fish fossils or the aquatic eco-system
- the culture and propagation of fish and experimental purposes related to that culture and propagation
- management of fish and activities relating to the appreciation or observation of fish.
Establishing FHPAs
FHPAs are often proposed by community members, allowing the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to work with the community to manage the area together. The FHPA establishment guide provides further details on how FHPAs are established.