While keenly anticipating restrictions being lifted, North East fishermen understand why their hobby has been banned in Victoria.
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Fishing with appropriate social distancing is allowed in NSW, but all recreational activities like fishing are still not allowed in Victoria.
Rutherglen-based Poachers of Paradise Fishing Club is among the groups that have stopped activity.
Secretary Tim Knowles said the closure of river access had discouraged many.
"I can only speak for myself, but I'm not aware of anyone flouting the rules," he said.
"There are probably some people who are going fishing anyway, but I would think that's pretty irresponsible given what's going on.
"It's all well and good to say 'I'm going out alone on the boat', but if I break down, or get fuel, that's a chance for contact.
"I miss the fishing, but I also think there's a fair degree of understanding.
"Most of us just want to write off 2020."
North East Angling Association president Stafford Simpson said there was a lot of confusion along the border about respective government restrictions.
"Lake Hume is Victorian waters, and it's only up past the Bethanga Bridge that it becomes NSW waters; there's a few anomalies," he said.
"It's pretty sad, because in NSW today we can go and visit a friend whereas in Victoria you can't.
"I can understand why they're doing it, but there has to be some sort of consistency."
Mr Simpson said his primary concern about the restrictions on fishing was the impact it might have on mental health.
"We've got a few guys that really enjoy fishing, they're retired and there's a couple who have some issues with mental health," he said.
"These are the things that would really make a difference to a lot of people, and it's sad they can't do it.
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"It's tough times - hopefully next week or so they might lift a few more restrictions."
Not all are comfortable with the ban; Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy is calling for a review on behalf of "frustrated" country people.
"Common sense would suggest that as long as social distancing rules are followed, country people who do not need to do unnecessary travel to get to their nearest river ... should be allowed to keep doing the activities they love," he said.
