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Commercial rock lobster fisher reported

Monday, 11 May 2009

A Southern Zone Rock Lobster commercial fisherman has been reported by PIRSA Fisheries Officers in relation to taking a number of undersize rock lobster.

It will be alleged that the commercial fisherman had a significant number of undersize rock lobsters in his total daily catch.  

“We have seen an increase in the number and frequency of undersize rock lobsters being landed in the Southern Zone commercial fishery this season,” PIRSA Fisheries Acting Regional Manager Limestone Coast Barry Tarr said today.

“Those fishers who are breaching the minimum size limit threaten the sustainability of the fishery for everyone.”  

The minimum legal size for rock lobsters is set at a level which ensures that they are sexually mature enough to have reproduced at least once before they can be legally caught.

“Catches have been down this season. It is important to ensure that the regulations assisting in the sustainability of the rock lobster fishery are adhered to by all fishers,” he said.

The Fisheries Management Act 2007, provides severe penalties of up to $50,000 or imprisonment for up to four years for this type of offending.

The minimum legal size limit for rock lobsters in the Southern Zone for all fishers is 9.85 centimetres in carapace length. 

PIRSA Fisheries will be closely monitoring commercial and recreational rock lobster sizes for the remainder of the rock lobster season.