Murray Cod and Murray Crayfish seasons close 1 September

20 Aug 2025

Recreational fishers in NSW are reminded that the fishing seasons for Murray Cod and Murray Crayfish end on Monday 1 September, 2025.

Department of Primary industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Program Leader Fish Stocking and Enhancement Operations, Jim Harnwell said from 1 September to 30 November, Murray Cod cannot be taken from inland waters, apart from in Copeton and Blowering dams.

"The Murray Cod fishery undergoes a three-month seasonal closure each year to safeguard this iconic native species during their breeding period.

"Fishing remains permitted year-round in Copeton and Blowering dams because ongoing monitoring by NSW DPIRD has shown that these are stocked fisheriesn, making the seasonal closure unnecessary.

"The Murray Cod, Australia's largest freshwater fish, is not only a prized catch in the inland fishery but also a cornerstone species of the Murray-Darling Basin.

"This seasonal fishing closure plays a crucial role in ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the thrill of catching a Murray Cod."

Mr Harnwell said the beginning of September also marks the start of the closure for Murray Crayfish, which commences on 1 September this year and remains in effect until 1 June 2026.

“Murray Crayfish can only be legally harvested from designated sections of the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers, between 1 June and 31 August each year,” Mr Harnwell said.

“Outside of this period, the fishery is closed to protect this vulnerable species and ensure its ongoing survival.

"The NSW recreational freshwater fishing regulations are specifically designed to safeguard and sustain our fisheries resources, ensuring they remain abundant for generations to come.

“Endemic to the southern tributaries of the Murray-Darling Basin, the Murray Crayfish is the largest freshwater spiny crayfish in NSW, reaching weights of up to three kilograms.”

Information on freshwater fishing rules can be found in the NSW Recreational Fishing Guide from DPIRD Fisheries offices, bait and tackle shops, fishing license agents or via our website.

Suspected illegal fishing should be reported to the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or via the online form located on NSW DPIRD Fisheries website.

Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au