The three WA abalone species: brownlip (H. conicopora), greenlip (H. laevigata) and Roe’s (H. roei). Photos: DPIRD
DPIRD has issued a statement reminding people of a ban on greenlip abalone fishing.
The Southern Zone for recreational abalone fishing, which extends from the Busselton Jetty to the South Australian Border, opens on October 1 and extends to May 15 the following year.
“Please note, the waters from the Busselton Jetty to Shoal Cape will open for Roe’s and brownlip abalone on 1st October however, these waters are closed to greenlip abalone fishing,” a spokesperson said.
“A licence is required to take part in abalone fishing and individuals cannot be in possession of abalone on the seaward side of the high-water mark if they do not hold a valid abalone fishing licence.”
He said size limits also applied, with fishers asked to measure each abalone prior to removing it from the reef.
“The use of a proper abalone gauge is also strongly recommended to avoid measuring errors,” the spokesman said.
“Ensure to measure each abalone across the widest part of the shell.
“The minimum size for Roe’s abalone is 60 mm, while the minimum size for both greenlip and brownlip abalone is 140 mm.”
In the Southern Zone the bag limit for Roe’s is 20, whereas a combined bag limit of five applies to greenlip and brownlip.
The spokesman said once an abalone is in your catch bag, it is considered your catch.
“A boat limit also applies for greenlip and brownlip abalone, with a combined maximum of 10 per day allowed where there are 2 or more licensed abalone fishers on board.”
