Recreational fishers in South Australia are again being asked to become citizen scientists and donate their filleted Australian salmon frames to research.
It's the second year of the research project aimed at collecting important biological information on the size, age and reproductive status of Australian Salmon in South Australia.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said recreational fishers were being encouraged to donate the filleted frames of their Australian salmon catch.
"This year we're hoping to build on the great support we got from recreational fishers in 2020, when over 350 salmon frames were donated. Most of the donated frames were between 30 and 50cm in length, but one fish, from the state's west coast, was 84cm and 11 years old," Minister Basham said.
"We want to get at least that many donations this year and given the ongoing support of the recreational fishing community, we hope to get even more.
"Australian Salmon is one of the most popular sportfish for recreational fishers here in South Australia. By donating your salmon frames, you will help improve our biological knowledge of this iconic species in South Australia, which will inform how this important fishery is sustainably managed into the future.
"The South Australian Research and Development Institute researchers need Australian salmon frames with the head, gut cavity and skeleton intact, but not the fillets. Once you've filleted your catch, put the frames in a bag, and freeze them until you can get to a donation point.
"Like last year, there are participating tackle shops all around the state where you can collect a donation form and drop off your frames. If you supply your contact details and information about your catch, you will go into the running to win some great fishing prizes."
Chair of the Minister's Recreational Fishing Advisory Council Sharon Starick said the Council was again supporting this important research.
"I encourage recreational fishers to get out there and make the most of the incredible salmon fishing opportunities that South Australia has to offer, particularly during the cooler months along the metro mid-coast, lower Yorke Peninsula and the State's west coast," Ms Starick said.
"Australian Salmon is a very popular target for recreational fishers in SA, particularly those fishing from the beach or one of the many jetties across the state. We would encourage fishing clubs and associations to promote this great 'citizen science' opportunity to their members too."
You can drop off frames until 31 October 2021. The major funder of the research is the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC). Full details, including where to drop off frames, can be found at pir.sa.gov.au/australian-salmon-research
For inspiration on how to use Australian Salmon, visit https://samedishnewfish.sa.gov.au/the_fish/australian_salmon
IMG_1583 caption: Fleurieu Fishing and Outdoors' Bruce Allen and Jeanette Pretty, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham and Liberal candidate for Mawson Amy Williams.
