Spanish Mackerel Catch Limits Increase Across Queensland

Legislative changes to the Spanish mackerel harvest strategy are now in effect for recreational fishers, while new rules for commercial fishers commence on 1 February 2026.

The Government says the changes are based on science and aim to put more iconic Spanish mackerel back on plates across Queensland. This year’s stock assessment found the population has likely increased to 34 per cent of un-fished biomass, allowing for higher catch limits.

For recreational fishers, the boat limit has increased from two to four Spanish mackerel per boat, while the individual bag limit remains at one per person. Commercial fishers will see the annual allowable catch rise from 165 tonnes to 250 tonnes – a 51.5 per cent increase. A new biomass target of 48 per cent has also been set to ensure sustainability into the future.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the changes were informed by data.

“As a government, to ensure sustainable fishing continues into the future, we must make our decisions based on the facts – and that’s what we’ve done here,” he said.

“We estimate this increase to the annual commercial catch limit will boost the Queensland economy by approximately $3.5 million in gross value of production. That means more jobs for Queenslanders and more Spanish mack on plates around the state, whether that be at home or showcased across our world-class tourism and hospitality sectors.”

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