LIBERAL senator Richard Colbeck says a new recreational fishing facility on the state's East Coast will pave the way for a sustainable future in the sector.
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Last week, the state government announced a pilot study, as part of the federal government's Fisheries Research and Development Corporation 2015 funding round.
The study aims to use satellite tags to research the movement, behaviour and post-release survival rates of swordfish and assess the potential of a new game fishery.
The state government has committed $30,000 to the project, while the Game Fishing Association of Australia and TARFish have contributed $5000 each.
The recreational sector has contributed a further $6000 through fund-raising efforts.
Senator Colbeck said it was important the government took charge of the sector to ensure its future success.
"Our fisheries are among the most sustainable and best managed in the world and it is great to see the recreational sector take an active role in ensuring this continues to be the case," he said.
"This demonstrates a strong commitment by the recreational sector to take responsibility for their fishing impact and ensure the sustainable development of a new recreational fishing opportunity."
Primary Industries and Water Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the concept had been driven by the hard work of the recreational fishing industry.
"The Game Fishing Association of Australia and TARFish came to us with this proposal some months ago, and the FRDC's support is vital for this study," he said.
"We see this as a positive first step for both our tourism and fishing industries; a successful and sustainability swordfish game fishery would be a welcome addition to the host of world-class nature-based experiences people can enjoy in Tasmania."
