The NT Government says it is looking for “fresh ideas” to support the new Recreational Fishing Development Plan that will determine the future of fishing in the NT.

The government is leading the new RFDP in association with the Amateur Fishermen’s Association of the Northern Territory (AFANT).

The new plan will put in place strategies for the next 10 years to ensure the Territory maintains and enhances the quality of its fisheries and recreational fishing prospects.

The Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RFAC), which is tasked to provide strategic advice to the Minister for Recreational Fishing, is overseeing the development of the new plan.

The current RFDP, which expires at the end of this year, is aimed at ensuring a wide range of high-quality experiences and healthy fish stocks and enhancing the value of recreational fishing for Territorians, tourists and the NT economy.

Agribusiness and Fisheries Minister Paul Kirby said they are seeking feedback from local businesses, residents and peak bodies to ensure growth of the industry over the next decade.

“Fishing is a way of life for Territorians, with previous surveys showing around 30,000 NT residents and many visitors take part in this popular pastime, each year,” Mr Kirby said.

“Territory residents and fishing tourists spend around $80 million annually in the NT and the Territory Government knows how important recreational fishing is to our economy and way of life.”

Workshops are also being held in June and July to provide the opportunity for the recreational fishing sector to discuss issues and possible solutions.

AFANT CEO David Ciaravolo said they are in the process of interviewing people from across the NT about their inspiration for fishing, experiences and challenges and what an ideal fishing future would look like.

“We are asking people to share their stories, so they can be heard and contribute to the planning process. If you would like to help inform a bright fishing future, please stop and have a chat or visit www.afant.com.au/rec-fishing-dev-plan/ where you can complete the interview online,” Mr Ciaravolo said.

The ongoing consultation for the 2023 plan will:

• Allow stakeholders and enthusiasts in recreational fishing to actively partake in the creation of the plan;
• Create a new RFDP to guide and develop the future of the NT’s recreational fishing sector; and
• Put in place a fishing sector mechanism suited for the Territory’s ever-changing environment due to climate change and varying coastal water access.

To view the current plan and more information about the development of the new plan, visit: industry.nt.gov.au/industries/fisheries/recreational-fishing-development-plan