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Pipi and rock lobster fisheries closure

Friday, 29 May 2009

The annual closure for the taking of pipis (Goolwa cockles) and rock lobsters comes into effect in South Australian waters next week.

The closures, from 1 June, are part of the sustainable management arrangements for both fisheries. They are designed to protect the pipi and lobster populations from fishing pressure during the spawning seasons.

PIRSA Fisheries Executive Director, Will Zacharin, said it was also important to note that new recreational bag limits will apply for the pipi fishery when the season opens again on 1 November 2009. The current legal bag limit will be halved from 600 to 300 per person to provide for improved catch sharing between recreational fishers and reduce total fishing pressure on the resource.

“Seasonal closures and recreational bag limits are important management tools that help ensure the continued sustainability of our fisheries,” Mr Zacharin said.

“Fisheries Compliance officers will be patrolling beaches ensuring fishers comply with the closure. They will also be on patrol in November when the new pipi bag limit commences.”

Mr Zacharin said that pipis are a fast growing, short-lived bivalve species that can grow to between 60 and 80 mm and reach sexual maturity at about 13 months of age (36 mm shell length).

“The pipi population in the Goolwa – Coorong region is thought to be the single largest stock abundance of this species in Australia and has ecological linkages to the outflows from the River Murray,” he said.

During the open season, recreational fishers must comply with a minimum size limit of 3.5 cm measured across the widest part of the shell.

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.