I think we should be looking at twenty percent, a nice round figure.

A twenty percent rise in the size limit, five centimetres, from twenty-seven up to thirty-two would seem fair and manageable, a fillet on a twenty-seven cm fish will hardly make a sandwich. Many boaties already operate a 35 cm size limit so no hardship there.

Twenty percent reduction in the takeable limit would bring it down to seven fish. Quite acceptable, no problems and more than enough to feed a family ... and the neighbours.

A twenty percent reduction in hook numbers on a long line. Dropping it to twenty from twenty-five won't create and huge arguments. A few years ago the limit was fifty hooks so long-line anglers need to show they are willing to continue to do their bit.

A twenty-percent reduction on net length for those who set a net when out in their boats, in estuaries, or from the shore. This would mean a forty-eight metre net instead of sixty. Plenty enough mesh hanging there to get a feed.

A twenty percent reduction in the length of a spear, means those with an aqualung will simply have to get closer to their prey, thereby reducing their catch. I was thinking twenty percent less air in the bottles but that could be dangerous.

Finally, and by far the most important, a total ban of all big money competitions where snapper are the target fish. Don't get me wrong there can still be big money competitions but snapper will no longer be the prime cull. This would show we respect snapper for what it is, the sport and the food, not a way to raise funds and swell a bank balance.

Now if all else fails it can always be suggested the minister should give serious consideration to the introduction of a salt water fishing license. This way amateurs, just like professionals, can buy a quota. Now that would really level the playing field and I am confident would be fully supported by all ... just a thought.


ROTFPML.