The annual closed season for blue cod/rāwaru in the Marlborough Sounds has now been extended, to reduce fishing pressure on the highly popular fishery and support its sustainability.
The closed season now runs from 1 September to 10 January (inclusive) each year, which will alleviate fishing pressure while other sustainability measures are considered. This new date applies to current and future seasons in the Marlborough Sounds Area (see map). It applies to both recreational and commercial fishing.
Blue cod is a favourite for many fishers and this popularity, as well as other factors, has led to sustainability concerns for the Marlborough Sounds fishery.
In 2022, scientific information indicated overfishing is occurring, especially in the inner Sounds. Commercial catch limits for the fish stock (BCO 7) were reduced and an advisory group, representing interests from across the community, was established to provide local expertise on further solutions.
This advisory group has been instrumental in exploring ways to improve the health of the blue cod population in the Marlborough Sounds. The extended closed season received strong support during consultation late last year.
Based on advisory group and public input, Fisheries New Zealand is also exploring wider factors affecting Marlborough Sounds blue cod, including reduced spawning and survival of caught fish that are returned, and is aiming for further public consultation on additional measures later this year.
Updated educational material for recreational fishers about what they can do to help ensure sustainability in the fishery, such as avoiding blue cod during the closed season, and safely releasing blue cod to minimise risk of mortality, will be available ahead of summer. You can sign up to the [email protected] mailing list to get updates on this.
