Victorian families can make the most of the state's coastline and its terrific rock lobster and abalone fisheries from this coming Sunday as recreational seasons open for both species.
Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) CEO Travis Dowling said Sunday 16 November marks the start of rock lobster season and the first abalone open day in Central Victorian waters.
"Rock lobster and abalone are two of our marquee dive fisheries and Victoria is home to some of the country's best spots to get into the action," he said.
"Diving for rock lobster or abalone is a great way to explore the underwater world and bring home a real showstopper for the dinner table."
A daily bag limit of two applies for rock lobster, and females in berry (with eggs) and all soft-shell rock lobster must be returned to the water immediately with the least possible harm.
Rock lobster fishers are reminded to ensure their device has the latest version of the 'GoFishVicRL' app and to register their intent to fish via the app before they head out. Fishers will automatically be prompted to register their intent to fish when they next open the app.
The GoFishVicRL app allows you to quickly and easily report your catch in under a minute, up to 7 days after you've caught a cray, and helps fisheries managers ensure stocks are in good shape for years to come.
Fishers collecting abalone are encouraged to ensure they are aware of catch limits and open days, which vary along the state's coastline, however a daily bag limit of five for the more common blacklip abalone is in place across Victoria. There is also a statewide possession limit of 10 for abalone.
Central Victorian waters – between Arch Rock near Cape Liptrap in the east and Aire River west of Apollo Bay – are open on weekends and public holidays between 16 November and 30 April, as well as from Christmas day to the second Sunday in January.
"Along with sticking to catch limits, divers are encouraged to wash their gear in warm soapy water before letting it dry to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic diseases," Mr Dowling said.
"It's also important to make sure you dive safely. Easy ways to do this are checking the forecast, including swell, before leaving home, assessing conditions at your dive spot, always going with a buddy and letting friends and family know of your plans."
Information on catch limits, the rock lobster tagging program, diving safety and more can be found at www.vfa.vic.gov.au or via the free 'VicFishing' app, which also includes a GPS-based "can I fish here?" function.
