Department of Primary Industries acting senior inland fisheries manager Craig Watson said yesterday cod and crayfish were iconic species native to the Murray Darling Basin.

“The Murray cod fishery is subject to closed periods every year to protect this native species during its breeding season,” he said.

“The Murray crayfish fishery is closed each year to protect it during its dormant period.

“Both species are a prized catch of recreational fishers and these closures help to protect and conserve the fishery for the future.

“Murray cod are one of Australia’s largest freshwater fish growing up to 1.8 metres and weighing over 100 kilograms.

“It is illegal to fish for cod in NSW until December 1.

Mr Watson said anglers need to be aware that trout cod, a close relative of the Murray cod and found in parts of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers, are totally protected all year round.

“Trout cod can be differentiated from Murray cod by their overhanging upper jaw, convex forehead and spotted markings,” he said.

“The trout cod protection area on the Murray River between Yarrawonga Weir and Tocumwal Road bridge is closed to all forms of fishing during the Murray cod closed season from September to November inclusive.”

Department of Primary Industries acting director fisheries compliance Tony Andrews said the crayfish season would remain closed until June 1 next year.

“Due to a decline in the species, Murray crayfish can now only be caught during three months each year and can only be legally taken within two areas of the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers.

“They were listed as a vulnerable species by the state’s Independent Fisheries scientific committee and new fishing arrangements were put in place to help protect and rebuild.”