The 'Freshwater General' fisheries plan will focus on key freshwater species found throughout the country that are currently managed under the Fisheries Act 1996.

Eel species are not included in this plan as they are considered under their own plans.  Similarly, Chatham Islands freshwater issues are likely to be encompassed within the Chatham Islands fisheries plan.

The freshwater general fisheries plan does not include the direct management of species classed as 'sportsfish' (eg salmon or trout) or unwanted organisms, as their management is presently administered under other legislation.