The Tasmanian Liberal Government has announced new measures to safeguard its vital calamari fishery through strategic spawning closures. These closures are set to protect calamari during their most vulnerable period—the spawning season—ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the fishery under the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.
Fishing remains a central part of Tasmanian life, and the government is committed to effective fisheries management to preserve this essential industry. Spawning closures are a proven method to protect fish stocks by preventing fishing during their reproductive periods, when they are most susceptible to overfishing.
The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) has recently highlighted a concerning depletion of calamari stocks, including those on the southern coast. In response, and after extensive consultation with both commercial and recreational fishing bodies, the government has outlined specific areas and periods for the upcoming spawning closures.
For the north coast, spanning from Cape Grim to Cape Naturaliste, a closure will be in effect from 1 September to 31 October 2024. This region has long been a hotspot for calamari fishing, and the temporary ban is designed to give the population a chance to recover and regenerate.
On the east coast, the closure has been extended to encompass a broader area. The previous boundaries from Lemon Rock to Marion Bay will now include all waters south to Whale Head. This expanded closure area covers the Tasman Peninsula, Bruny Island, and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. The new restrictions will be in place from 15 October to 14 November 2024.
These closures are not a one-off measure but part of a three-year strategy to ensure the calamari fishery’s sustainability. The restrictions will be enforced through 2026, giving the ecosystem ample time to recover and stabilise.
During these closure periods, fishing or possessing calamari and other squid species in the affected areas will be strictly prohibited. This regulation aims to reduce fishing pressure during critical spawning times, allowing calamari populations to replenish.
The government’s proactive approach to managing the calamari fishery demonstrates a commitment to balancing environmental stewardship with the interests of the fishing community. By instituting these closures, Tasmania is taking significant steps towards ensuring that its fisheries remain robust and viable for future generations.
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