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Don’t get ‘pinched’ for blue swimmer crab offences

MEDIA RELEASE 
 
Wednesday 15 September, 2010

With the warmer weather approaching, PIRSA Fisheries has issued a timely reminder to recreational fishers of the strict regulations that apply to blue swimmer crabs.

Blue swimmer crabs are traditionally a popular target at this time of year as the weather warms up and they begin to move closer to the shoreline of Gulf St Vincent.

Regional Manager Central South Randel Donovan said that strict size, bag and boat limits apply to blue swimmer crabs which are in place to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery is protected.

“At this time of year we traditionally start to see a lot more recreational fishers along the beaches of upper Gulf St Vincent specifically targeting blue swimmer crabs,” Mr Donovan said.

“Fisheries officers will be patrolling all Gulf waters to keep an eye out of those people doing the wrong thing.

“We want to ensure that all fishers are aware of the regulations that apply to blue swimmer crabs so they do not put themselves in a position where they could face possible fines and loss of equipment.”

Blue swimmer crab rules at a glance:
• Daily bag limit of 40 per person (combined limits with sand crabs).
• Daily boat limit of 120 (combined limits with sand crabs).
• A minimum size limit of 11cm width measured across the carapace from the base of the largest spines also applies.
• It is illegal to take female crabs with eggs. These must be returned to the water straight away without harm.
• Recreational crab fishers are not permitted to sell or trade their catch.

 “Our Fishcare Volunteers will be visiting boat ramps and jetties across South Australia over the next few weekends handing out crab measuring gauges and other information to help recreational fishers abide by these regulations,” Mr Donovan said.

“The Volunteers play an important role in educating recreational fishers and providing them with up to date regulation information to minimise the risk of offending.”

PIRSA Fisheries has produced a short video showing the correct way to measure different fish species, including blue swimmer crabs, which is available at: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/pirsa/video_news2
 
Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.

Media Contact: Randel Donovan, PIRSA Fisheries Regional Manager Central South, 0408 845 733.