A new fishing season is approaching, and with it comes a reminder of changed laws to the use of yabby traps. As of this year, the common Opera House style yabby traps are strictly prohibited across NSW, drawing hefty fines if caught in action. 

Department of Primary Industries Program Leader Jim Harnwell says that the new open-top, eco-friendly nets must be used in all NSW waters. 

“If a yabby goes into the (open-top) trap, they can’t really climb back out again, but a breathing animal like a turtle could swim in and quite easily swim back out again,” Mr Harnwell said. 

Prior to the their ban, Opera House style traps were causing unintentional deaths.

*The 'opera house style' yabby trap is now strictly prohibited in NSW.

"Breathing species like birds, turtles, water rats and occasionally platypus would enter and not be able to find an escape, causing drowning in the trap," Mr Harnwell said.

“These new, eco-friendly nets are not only great for catching yabbies, but they will also help to protect our iconic native aquatic wildlife species,” he added.

The ban of the Opera House traps extends throughout the entirety of the state, including dams and other bodies of water on private properties. Victoria and Queensland have implemented similar bans in their respective states.

Coonamble fishing enthusiast Peter Blattman says that the switch to alternative traps was a necessary move. 

“They’re catching too much of everything, it happens all the time down the creek. A lot of local species were getting killed out. Turtles would get caught in them all the time,” Mr Blattman said. 

While Mr Harnwell said that pyramid-shaped open top traps are preferred by the Department of Primary Industries, there are many alternatives available, such as the double ring frame that Mr Blattman uses.

Mr Harnwell has urged all recreational fishers to ensure they use the right equipment and familiarise themselves with the new rules which are now in place across NSW.

“It is important for fishers to understand the new rules surrounding the use of the open-top nets and are aware of the consequences for using the incorrect equipment when targeting yabbies in NSW waters.

“By following these rules, fishers can take the lead in fishing responsibly and catching a great feed of yabbies while making a real difference to our environment.”