Know your limits around sharks

While most people don't mean to hook a shark when they go fishing, those who do find a shark on the end of their line should make sure they know the latest rules.

Since July last year, sharks have a take and possession limit of one and a maximum legal size of 1.5 metres total length or an interdorsal length of 60cm.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol district officer Karl Roebuck said the shark and ray limits were adjusted to ensure the shark populations remained sustainable in Queensland by protecting large breeding sharks

 
"The limits apply to all sharks and rays in Queensland waters," Mr Roebuck said.

"The only exceptions are great white sharks, grey nurse sharks, sawfish and speartooth sharks, which are all strictly no-take species.

"These species are particularly vulnerable to exploitation due to their slow growth rates, small number of pups and late sexual maturity."

Mr Roebuck said fishers caught in possession of oversized or no-take species, or those in excess of possession limits, could face maximum fines of up to $100,000.

"It is essential that people stay up-to-date with relevant rules and regulations to avoid heavy fines and to ensure the continued sustainability of these and other important species."

Mr Roebuck said if fishers found themselves with a shark on the end of their line, there were some simple steps they should take to ensure their own safety.

"Obviously if the shark is large the only option is to release it as safely as possible," he said.

"If the shark is only small fishers should handle it with care keeping hands, feet and body well clear of the shark's mouth."

For anglers who want to keep their shark catch, it is important to measure the shark correctly (see diagram).

The Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol is the compliance arm of Fisheries Queensland which is part of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.

For more information on fishing rules visit www.deedi.qld.gov.au