While hundreds of fishers throw a line overboard in hope of the perfect Christmas catch, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority reminds those heading out on the water to grab a free zoning map.


With patrols taking place in the Marine Park during this festive season, fishers should be mindful of the zoning rules and not risk getting a fine for illegal fishing in areas where fishing isn’t allowed or is limited.


Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Field Management Director Mick Bishop said zoning maps were useful to keep on boats or in tackle boxes and should be checked regularly.


“It’s a good idea for fishers to check their maps when they’re out on the water, to make sure they are not fishing illegally," he said.

“Even people who go out on the water regularly should take time to check the activities guide on the maps to refresh their knowledge of what they can and can’t do in particular areas."

While anyone can enter a Green Zone to anchor and participate in activities such as boating, swimming and snorkelling, Green Zones are strictly no-take areas where activities like fishing or collecting are not allowed.

Stowing fishing gear on board the boat or in rod holders with a hook still attached is also allowed in a Green Zone, provided the fishing apparatus is out of the water.Travelling through a Green Zone with fish on board is allowed. It is only an offence to fish in Green Zones.

There’s limited line fishing in Yellow Zones, which allow for fishing with one hand-held rod or one hand-held line per person, with one hook attached to that line.

You can pick up a free zoning map from bait and tackle shops, visitor information centres, ship chandlers and Department of Environment and Resource Management and Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol offices.

Alternatively call the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority on 1800 990 177 for a free map.