Thu Sep 05 by: Archer Hume

Swimming Shrimp Fishing in Melbourne & Victoria: Where to Catch, Tackle & Tips

Swimming shrimp are small crustaceans found in Victorian waters, often used as bait for fishing. They are subject to specific collection regulations.

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Source: vfa.vic.gov.au

Introduction

Swimming shrimp encompass various species of small, aquatic crustaceans found in the waters of Victoria, Australia. These creatures are well-adapted to their aquatic environment, using their specialized appendages for efficient movement through the water. Swimming shrimp typically inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, and some inland waterways. They play a crucial role in the aquatic ecosystem as a food source for many fish species. Due to their popularity as fishing bait, there are specific regulations in place to ensure their sustainable collection. Swimming shrimp are often found in schools, making them an attractive target for both recreational fishers and as a food source for larger marine life.

What restrictions are in place for Swimming Shrimp fishing in Melbourne?

Collection of swimming shrimp is prohibited in waters less than 2m deep in Port Phillip Bay’s intertidal zone. They cannot be collected in Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries. Outside restricted areas, collection methods are limited to: by hand, using 1 dip net, up to 2 bait traps, one bait pump only, or 1 bait net only. Bait nets have specific usage restrictions in various water bodies. Equipment must be appropriately labelled and conform to size and shape regulations. Collecting for others contributes to your personal bag limit.

How to catch Swimming Shrimp

To catch swimming shrimp in Victoria, you can use several methods: hand collection, a dip net, bait traps, a bait pump, or a bait net. When using a bait net, ensure you’re at least 30m from any jetty or pier, and 400m from the mouth of specified creeks or rivers. In marine waters, bait nets can only be used on the seaward side of the mouths of inlets or rivers. Always check local regulations as restrictions may apply in certain areas.

What should you know about fishing for Swimming Shrimp?

It's important to note that Swimming Shrimp is a protected species. Fishing for this species is typically prohibited or strictly regulated to ensure its conservation. Instead of fishing, consider learning about the importance of this species in its ecosystem and supporting conservation efforts.

Where can you find Swimming Shrimp in Melbourne

It's important to note that Swimming Shrimp is a protected species. Fishing for this species is typically prohibited or strictly regulated to ensure its conservation. Instead of fishing, consider learning about the importance of this species in its ecosystem and supporting conservation efforts.

FAQs about Swimming Shrimp fishing in Melbourne

What is the bag limit for Swimming Shrimp?

Yes, there is a bag limit for swimming shrimp. Outside of restricted areas, the total combined limit is 0.5 litres of swimming shrimp from one or more species. This bag limit does not apply to purchased bait.

What is the size limit for Swimming Shrimp?

There is no minimum legal size limit for swimming shrimp in Victoria.

What are Swimming Shrimp?

Swimming shrimp are small crustaceans found in Victorian waters, often used as bait for fishing. They are subject to specific collection regulations.

What are the best lures for Swimming Shrimp?

As Swimming Shrimp are a protected species, there are no recommended lures for catching them. It's important to respect conservation efforts and avoid targeting these fish.

What are the best baits for Swimming Shrimp?

As Swimming Shrimp are a protected species, there are no recommended baits for catching them. It's crucial to adhere to conservation guidelines and avoid fishing for these protected fish.

As Swimming Shrimp are a protected species, there are no recommended baits for catching them. It's important to focus on other species and support conservation efforts.

What are the best locations to catch Swimming Shrimp?

As Swimming Shrimp are a protected species, fishing for them is not allowed in any location. It's important to focus on other species and support conservation efforts.