Southern Rock Lobster

Southern rock lobster (Jasus edwardsii) are distributed widely across Southern Australia and are one of our most sought after seafood delicacies. To ensure the long-term health of our rock lobster stocks there are a number of rules that apply to rock lobster fishing.

The South Australian coastal waters are divided into two zones for the purpose of fishing for rock lobster:

  • Southern zone: from longitude 139°0’4.80” east to the Victorian border
  • Northern zone: from longitude 139°0’4.80” west to the West Australian border, including Kangaroo Island

Different rules about when you can fish for rock lobster (closed seasons) and the size of lobster that can be taken (catch restrictions) might apply to the different zones.

In addition there are some areas where rock lobster are totally protected (closed areas), and restrictions on the number and type of permitted devices that can be used.



Registration of rock lobster pots


Recreational fishers are allowed to fish for rock lobster using up to two rock lobster pots, but these must be registered. Any one over 15 years of age can apply to PIRSA Fisheries for registration of rock lobster pots from 1 August each year until 31 May of the following year. You will need to pay a fee.

Registration and payment can be made online; you can download a registration form or you can pick up a form from some local PIRSA offices.

Recreational fishers are not permitted to sell or trade their catch.