February 17, 2022
Kingfish in the Rip have been generating a lot of interest amongst recfishers lately and we’ve enjoyed seeing some cracking catches on our socials.
With the Rip a popular spot to reel in kingfish, it’s only fitting to see new artificial reefs deployed in the area with the intention of attracting kings. In March, the Victorian Fisheries Authority will deploy purpose-built modules. Each module measures 4m x 5m and will be arranged in clusters of four, spaced about 50m apart.
They will be deployed north of Observatory Point inside Port Phillip Heads. The location was selected as it will ensure boats will be able to safely fish for kings away from the shipping channel.
The Victorian Ports Corporation have reported high numbers of recreational boats drifting in the area, prompting a timely safety reminder for recfishers and boaters to Steer Clear of Big Ships in the Rip by following the tips below.
STEER CLEAR IN THE RIP
With Port Phillip Bay being a popular area for fishing, boating and yachting as well as other water based activities, it is important to be aware that it is also a pathway for large commercial ships travelling to and from the ports in Melbourne and Geelong.
The ‘canyons’ in the Rip provide an ideal structure for kingfish and combined with the strong comeback of kingfish in Victorian waters, there has been an increase in the number of boats accessing the fishery.
For those fishing in Port Phillip Bay, it is important to remember to Steer Clear of the Ships in the Rip, to ensure the safety of all fishers within the area. Any recreational fishers who fish within the Port Phillip Bay area should familiarise themselves with the following tips to safely and responsibly enjoy all that Port Phillip Bay has to offer.
Vessels must not anchor or drift within the transit only zone (TOZ). Please keep to the landside of the TOZ beacons which have a yellow cross on top.
Ships can weigh more than 150,000 tonnes and cannot change course suddenly. They often are travelling faster than you think.
STEER CLEAR OF SHIPS IN THE RIP
- Anchoring and trolling in the rip is extremely dangerous
- The Rip in Port Phillip Bay is a high traffic area for ships
- Don’t leave it too late.
- If you cannot see the ship’s bridge they cannot see you
- Steer clear of ships at all times
- Ships cannot alter course in the rip
- Penalties may apply
THE TRANSIT ONLY ZONE
- Covers the Port Melbourne Channel south of Breakwater Pier, the water approximately 500 metres to the west and 200 metres to the east of that channel
- Includes the Eastern By-Pass Channel and the Western By-Pass Channel (beside the Port Melbourne Channel)
- Extends approximately 3 nautical miles to the south of Fawkner Beacon.
