SA Government puts snapper ban on hold after receiving more than 900 submissions

SA’s controversial snapper fishing ban is on hold as the State Government deals with a huge number of submissions on the issue.

The State Government will put SA’s snapper fishing ban on hold as more than 900 submissions have been made on the issue.

Minister for Primary Industries Tim Whetstone told The Advertiser he was considering all of the submissions before making a final decision shortly.

“The severity of the situation has left me with no option but to contemplate the decision needed to ensure South Australians can catch and enjoy sustainable local snapper into the future,” Minister Whetstone said.

“Over the past five years snapper stocks have reduced by 87 per cent in Gulf St Vincent and by 23 per cent in Spencer Gulf and the commercial catch has dramatically reduced.”

The statewide ban for the next three years was announced last month under a radical plan to allow depleted stocks to be replenished.

Submissions from stakeholders and the public on two management options were made until August 31.

The Government was to announce which option would be adapted earlier this month and was expected to be introduced from October 1.

“The initial results show that nearly 54 per cent of respondents support a three-year statewide closure with 25 per cent supporting a closure for just the West Coast/Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent regions.

There is no definitive date for the final outcome to be announced.

The State Government was considering a three-year, statewide snapper ban to help stocks replenish.

The second option is to ban snapper fishing in all SA waters except those in the South East – but that region would remain subject to lengthy seasonal closures and other measures to restrict professional and recreational catches.