The legal wrangle over freshwater fish resources

[Riprap]

I'm starting this thread to consolidate a lot of issues (besides NEMBA) which will affect us anglers into the future. This study is quite interesting:
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I have noticed recently how the term "equitable access" has crept into RMP's and other matters pertaining to inland waters and whilst I don't for one second think that our bass belong to us only, a holistic approach to utilisation needs to be well managed for it to be successful. Hell, I am on record for culling bass with a slot limit to ensure their future.

Government are responsible for the introduction of most if not all alien fish species into SA since the turn of the last century and in an effort to redress the wrongs of the past, the "equitable access" phrase gets coined more and more often. Whilst I don't begrudge a hungry man the chance to feed his family a fish, what I cannot accept is that this can be overlooked if it's illegal or unsustainable! It is common practice in our beloved country that there are different rules for different folks yet the legislation exists for all things pertinent but the execution of control is severely lacking.

Enter the recreational fishing sector. In the latest edition of The Bass Angler magazine, there is an article on how SACRAA through SASACC are commissioning a survey on the recreational fishing industry in SA, the results of which will no doubt highlight the economic importance. I would welcome some more info from someone in the know in this regard.

Please feel free to grow this thread.