freshwater-recreational-fishing-guide-2016-17

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Food safety
‘Red alert’ algal warnings and visible blooms
Some algae produce harmful toxins that can
build up in freshwater shellfish; brackish and
freshwater crustacea; the gut and, to a lesser
extent, the flesh of freshwater finfish.
Algal blooms can appear as water
discolouration, including red, green, yellow,
brownish, oily or milky appearance. Scum
may form on the water surface. The water may
have a musty, earthy or pungent smell. Some
other blooms are not visible but are highly
toxic, even at low levels.
■■
Do not collect shellfish, gastropods, or
crustacea such as Yabbies or Crayfish from
waters affected by algal blooms.
■■
Clean and rinse freshwater finfish
thoroughly in uncontaminated water
and dispose of internal organs before
consumption as they are likely to contain
toxins. The toxin could also be present in
the flesh.
For further background on the risks of toxic
algal blooms go to www.whoi.edu/redtide/
Fishing closures
Do not take any species listed in a NSW DPI
closure notice.
Some waterways have been contaminated
by industrial pollution and are not suitable
for catching or collecting certain species for
consumption.
Sewage spills sometimes contaminate waters
with harmful bacteria and viruses. Sewage spills
are especially high risk for shellfish.
More information
For more information from the NSW Food
Authority: phone 1300 552 406 or check
website www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au
Local recreational fishing guides
Local guides provide valuable information on
fishing in inland or coastal NSW. Whether you
are a resident or a visiting fisher you can find
details on fishing locations, local fishing rules
and closures along with summary maps in the
local areas on our website at: www.dpi.nsw.
gov.au/fisheries/recreational/publications
NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide