Fisheries New Zealand is calling on fishers in the Marlborough Sounds to fish responsibly this summer and minimise disturbance to blue cod.
“The fishery has been under an extended closure, which finishes on 10 January. This has given the fishery a chance to rest and recover. Fishers can help protect this important resource once fishing resumes by following best practice when returning blue cod to the water to give them the best chance of survival,” says Emma Taylor, director of fisheries management at Fisheries New Zealand.
“This will support the sustainability of the fishery as we work on more research and engage with the local community about other sustainability measures.”
Recent research includes a potting survey conducted by Earth Sciences NZ (formerly NIWA) to gather the latest information on blue cod abundance in the region. The results will provide the most up-to-date picture of the fishery’s recovery.
Fisheries New Zealand has also commissioned research on blue cod habitats in the Marlborough Sounds. This, alongside input from the local stakeholder advisory group, will help develop management options for areas thought to be particularly important for spawning and rebuilding the fishery.
Public consultation on these additional management options is expected in 2026.
“We’ve also heard from public submissions that post-release mortality of blue cod is a major issue in the Marlborough Sounds, so we are launching a new educational campaign this summer to make sure fishers know about the issues facing the fishery, how to avoid catching blue cod during closures, and responsible fishing tips, including how to handle and release blue cod to give them the best chance of survival,” Emma says.
Educational material is available at www.mpi.govt.nz/marlborough-blue-cod. It includes best fishing practice guidelines and advice on tools and techniques local fishers are using to prevent predation from shags and other seabirds. It also explains how to avoid catching undersize fish and how to handle and unhook unwanted blue cod without harming them.
“Support from Marlborough Sounds fishers through public consultation on the extended closed season has been fantastic and is central to developing further steps for the fishery. An advisory group, made up of local fishery experts, has also contributed a lot of time and expertise, and we want to thank them for their ongoing work,” Emma says.
To keep up to date with the latest rules, including closures and daily limits, download the free NZ Fishing Rules mobile app.
