Tasmanian recreational rock lobster fishers will be able to enjoy an earlier start to the season, with the opening date for the recreational fishery brought forward.
The season will open on 31 October 2026 in all areas outside the East Coast Stock Rebuilding Zone, replacing the previous opening date of 7 November.
The change has been made to coincide with the Recreation Day public holiday on Monday 2 November across northern Tasmania, providing recreational fishers with additional opportunities to get out on the water.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Gavin Pearce, said through our Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re backing in our recreational fishers.
“By bringing the season opening forward, we’re providing recreational rock lobster fishers with the opportunity to make the most of the Recreation Day long weekend,” Minister Pearce said.
“As always, fishers must comply with all recreational rock lobster fishing requirements, including holding a licence and reporting details of their fishing activity through the Fishing Tas App.
“Reporting your fishing activity, even when you don’t catch any rock lobster, provides important information that supports the sustainable management of this valuable fishery.”
The East Coast Stock Rebuilding Zone will open on 5 December 2026.
Information about recreational rock lobster fishing rules, season dates and open fishing areas is available through the Fishing Tas App and on the Fishing Tasmania website https://fishing.tas.gov.au/recreational-fishing/fishing-by-species/rock-lobster-and-crab
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