RECREATIONAL fishers are reminded to brush up on the rules and ensure their appropriate 2019-20 registrations are in place as the season starts again for pipis (Goolwa cockles) and rock lobsters, in the northern zone.
From Friday, November 1, until May 31, the area from the Murray Mouth to the WA border, including Kangaroo Island and Yorke and Eyre peninsulas will be open for rock lobsters, while pipis can be found from throughout the state, excepting area between the Murray Mouth and 28 Mile Crossing on the Younghusband Peninsula (Coorong Beach).
PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture executive director Sean Sloan said all fishers should be aware of the correct size and bag limits.
"South Australia is one of the few states that allows the use of recreational Rock Lobster pots," he said.
"By correctly following the fishing limits and rules you are ensuring the long term sustainability of our fish stocks for future generations to enjoy.
"Remember it is up to you to know and follow the latest rules for Rock Lobster fishing in the Northern Zone, registering a maximum of two pots per person and making sure they are gear compliant with escape gaps and Sea Lion Exclusion Devices)."
Mr Sloan said collecting Pipis was an enjoyable family fishing experience, particularly given this was a species easily accessible from the shore.
"The limits are in place to ensure our fisheries continue to be sustainable for future generations to enjoy," he said.
"PIRSA Fishcare Volunteers and Fisheries Officers will be on hand during the season when patrolling Pipi fishing beaches to answer questions about measuring Pipi and bag limits.
"If you are fishing for Pipi on the Coorong or any beaches east of 136E, the limit is 300 per person and 900 per vehicle.
"If you are fishing for Pipi on the West Coast, west of 136E (located near Port Lincoln), then a bag limit of 100 and a vehicle limit of 300 applies.
"Size, bag and boat limits are in place for a reason and while most people do the right thing, we encourage anyone who comes across any illegal or suspicious fishing activity to call Fishwatch on 1800 065 522 or report via the free SA Recreational Fishing app."
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Mr Sloan said earlier this year two men were fined $890 for exceeding their Pipi bag and vehicle possession limits at Canunda National Park.
At the time a 46-year-old Victorian man from Dunkeld and a 38-year-old man from Allendale East, along with a youth, were detected by Fisheries Officers at Geltwood Beach with more than 1200 pipis.
- Details: pir.sa.gov.au/fisheries or download the SA Recreational Fishing Guide smartphone app at pir.sa.gov.au/recfishingapp
