Wild Fish

Tasmanians use sustainable fishing methods and strategic management to ensure their industry will prosper into the future. The number of marine reserves in state waters was increased by the Australian Government in 2007 to ensure fish stocks will be sustained.

The Tasmanian abalone catch had a beach value of $110.5 million in 2007. While wild abalone fisheries in other regions are grappling with pollution problems and over-fishing, Tasmanians have been able to lift production in recent years through a 33 per cent increase in the allowable catch.

Southern rock lobsters, known locally as ‘crayfish’, are the next most commercially important species. Stocks are protected through a quota system, size limits and seasonal closures. In 2005-06, 221 vessels were involved in the fishery and were limited to 10,507 quota units, or pots. They caught 1,503 tonnes of the tasty crustaceans, with a beach value of $50 million. The combined beach value of the lobster and crab catch in 2007 was $54.6m. Like abalone, most rock lobsters are exported to Asia.

Just over 300 vessels fish in coastal and off-shore waters for scale fish. Inshore fishers catch close to 1,000 tonnes of all species each year.

A solid scientific research and development base backs up Tasmania's fishing sector. The CSIRO, the University of Tasmania and various other national and state expert bodies contribute to the effective management of the marine ecosystem.

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