Boats and baitboats

For 2023, using baits and baitboats is only allowed at certain times of the year (from 1 January to 31 March, and from 23 October to 31 December) and only for long sessions (one week or longer).

Minimum monofilament main line thickness to be used for rowing out hookbaits (when using boats) is 0.40mm. This includes nylon and fluorocarbon. No braided main lines to be used. Shock leaders are not required since there are no snags. However, when using boats and baitboats, a minimum of 70cm of either leadcore or anti-tangle tubing must be used.

Fish must be played from the bank at all times. Anglers using boats must not play the fish from the boat unless the fish gets stuck in an underwater obstacle, which is very unlikely given there are no snags. If a fish must be netted from the boat, is must be brought ashore in the landing net, which should kept parallel to the boat.

Anglers using boats are allowed to permanently mark their spots with tubular flexible markers. The tubular markers can remain in position throughout the session. H-block markers can only be used for temporarily marking a spot and must be removed before fishing. Anglers are not allowed to fish to H-block markers because the fish, or the main line, can get tangled in the marker cord.

Using boats and baitboats will be permitted throughout the year from 2024. Please note that use of the boat is entirely at the angler’s own risk and no responsibility is accepted for any accidents that might occur.