Recreational fishers urged to have their say on mangrove jack

If you catch mangrove jack anywhere in New South Wales, researchers from Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre want to hear from you.

Southern Cross University PhD student Toby Piddocke is surveying recreational fishers (both spear and line) to better understand the mangrove jack fishery in NSW.

“Mangrove jack are one of the most challenging recreational species in NSW and are popular among both line and spear fishers. A healthy mangrove jack fishery is a great asset for NSW, but at the moment we don’t know much about the motivations of the fishers involved,” Toby said.

“Participating in the survey will enable fishers to have their say on the species, thereby helping to ensure that we can enjoy opportunities for good jack fishing into the future”.

The survey is part of a broader study investigating mangrove jack movements, age and growth, diet and reproductive biology.

“We are gathering lots of biological data on jacks, but to get a more complete picture, we need insights from the people who spend time fishing for them,” Toby said.

Three simple options are available to complete the survey.

A stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with all paper copies for easy return.

Photo: Toby Piddocke is surveying recreational fishers (both spear and line) to better understand the mangrove jack fishery in NSW

Media contact: Brigid Veale, head of Communications and Publications Southern Cross University, 66593006 or 0439 680 748.