Can I go fishing during coronavirus? This has been the third most googled question across Australia over the past week as people try and work out what they can do during COVID-19 restrictions.
Although the WA government has not banned recreational fishing or boating, for the most part it is considered non-essential travel.
This means unless fishing is an essential activity, such as for exercise or work, people should follow government advice and stay home.
In a press conference last week, Premier Mark McGowan "encouraged recreational fishers to stay home for now".
Read more:
RecfishWest is also urging all WA fishers to follow all the recommended precautions by the government around social distancing and non-essential travel between regions.
"We all love fishing and its value for mental health and well-being is greater than ever right now with it providing many in our community a much-needed break during these stressful times," a RecfishWest spokesperson said.
"However, advice from the government was very clear: if you can stay at home, you should stay at home."
RecfishWest outlined what fishers can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Stay home where possible to minimise social interactions
- Fish locally only, near where you live and limit your time away from home
- Travel directly to and from your home to prevent any social interactions
- Maintain social distancing of 1.5 metres from other people
- Fish alone, with family, or with household members only
- Do not congregate at land-based fishing locations, instead look for more secluded alternatives
- Stay away from popular man-made fishing structures such as jetties
- Do not go fishing if you are in quarantine
- If you are unwell, you must self-isolate
WA Police warned that measures surrounding social distancing and gatherings also apply to those boating or fishing - meaning $1000 on-the-spot fines could be issued to those breaking the rules.
For more information surrounding fishing and boating during COVID-19 restrictions visit: https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/aboutus/covid-19-faqs.asp
