Spencer Gulf Cuttlefish closure

Cuttlefish fishing in northern Spencer Gulf has been closed until 27 March 2014.
Find out more
Frequently asked questions
Map of closure area

Port River Mud Cockle closure

The Port River Mud Cockle fishing closure has been extended until 30 June 2013 due to ongoing concerns about sustainability. View map of closure area and frequently asked questions.

Commercial fishing

Commercial wildcatch fisheries in South Australia include:

  • marine-based fisheries for species such as abalone, garfish, King George whiting, mullet, pilchards, prawns, rock lobster, snapper, tuna, tommy ruff and sharks
  • estuarine and freshwater fisheries targeting callop, carp, cockles, flounder, mullet, mulloway, Murray cod and yabbies.

South Australia's wildcatch fisheries are subject to limited entry regimes and are controlled by:

  • input controls (controlling what goes in to the water, such as limitations on the number of licences issued, gear restrictions, seasonal closures and limits on total fishing time)
  • output controls (controlling what comes out of the water, such as directly limiting the number of fish that can be landed).

South Australian seafood is recognised for its freshness and consistent quality and makes a significant contribution to the economy of the state. The South Australian Seafood Food Plan establishes the framework and strategies for the seafood industry (including fish processing, wholesale, retail and live seafood distribution) over the coming years.

The challenge is to develop these valuable industries while at the same time ensuring the sustainability of the ecosystem and respecting the rights of other users.