05 Nov 2008
Fishing cluster explores protection of skipjack fishery
Toi EDA and its predecessor, the Eastern Bay of Plenty Economic Development Board, have worked closely with the local fishing industry on various issues.
So it was no surprise that Toi EDA played a vital role in facilitating a meeting recently to explore what regulations or voluntary arrangements could be introduced to ensure that recreational anglers get their share of the local skipjack tuna fishery.
The Whakatane Charter Fishing cluster in conjunction with the Whakatane Sport Fishing Club held a meeting in September attended by Ministry of Fishery spokesperson Graham McGregor and representatives from all the Bay of Plenty fishing clubs. The fishing industry was represented by Sanfords, Talleys and Pelco.
The meeting explored what type of regulations or voluntary arrangement could be implemented so that recreational anglers get a share of the skipjack tuna fishery.
Rick Pollock of the Whakatane Charter Fishing Cluster outlined the main concerns including the lack of scientific evidence available about the effect of the fishing industry on the skipjack tuna fishery. He also expressed concern at the presence of purse seiners within two miles of land, and spoke about the positive effects recreational fishing has on Whakatane’s economy.
Some robust discussion resulted in a group set up by the Ministry of Fisheries to include a representative from each fishing club plus the three fishing companies. It is hoped that a there will be some resolution to the problem before the summer game fishing season gets seriously under way.
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