Abalone fishing season opens at Perth and Geraldton

23/9/93

The recreational abalone fishing season at Perth and Geraldton would open on Saturday, October 16, at 7.00 am, Fisheries Minister Monty House announced today.

"Research surveys have indicated that a good stock of legal-size abalone has built up over the past 12 months on the reef tops at both Perth and Geraldton," Mr House said.

"This is a direct result of the fishing controls put into place last year and wide-spread support from fishermen.

"The season will run for eight weekends to Sunday, December 5, with an option of remaining open for a further two weekends, if stocks of legal-size abalone hold out."

Mr House also reminded abalone fishers that they would need to hold a $20 recreational fishing licence this year if they wished to fish for abalone.

A 50 per cent discount was available for pensioners and children.

"Abalone fishers must carry their licences with them and make them available to fisheries officers for inspection on the beach," Mr House said.

"Because of their accessibility, and their popularity as a gourmet seafood, abalone are highly vulnerable to over-fishing.

"In the past, the rapacious attitude of some fishers has caused major problems and led to concerns for the long-term sustainability of the recreational fishery.

"This year a range of fishing rules is designed to control fishing efforts at a sustainable level.

"Fishing will only be allowed on weekends and public holidays.

"The reefs between Moore River and Cape Bouvard, and between the Greenough River Mouth and the Flat Rocks car park will only be open for fishing between 7.00 am and 9.00 am.

"In addition, a bag limit of 20 abalone per licensed fisher per day applies, and the minimum legal size for Roe's abalone will be 60 mm.

"Fishers also need to be aware that special fishing rules apply in the important marine reserves of Marmion Marine Park, Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, and Rottnest Island.

"In these areas only abalone may be taken.  All other shellfish and reef animals are protected.

"However, mussel collecting is also permitted in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park."

Mr House said also that the Fisheries Department would be running a major community education program throughout the season.

"Six temporary fishery liaison officers will be employed to help monitor fishing activity."

Media contact:  Will Henwood 222 9595 or 481 2044