Fishers reminded of ongoing fishing closures as algal bloom recovery measures remain in place

Recreational fishers are being reminded that total fishing closures remain in place for some species and areas across South Australia, including Southern Calamari (squid) in both gulfs and Garfish in Gulf St Vincent/Kangaroo Island Fishing Zone.

The reminder follows increased instances of squid being taken by recreational fishers from waters with squid-fishing prohibitions in place.

Following fish stock assessments undertaken earlier this year as part of the harmful algal bloom response, the South Australian Government introduced temporary fishing restrictions from 1 May 2026.

While there are encouraging signs of algal bloom recovery in some areas, the precautionary restrictions remain in place until 30 April 2027. These closures will support the recovery of fish stocks following the significant impacts this devastating natural event has had on our marine environment.

Southern Calamari

A total closure for Southern Calamari was implemented across both Gulf St Vincent and Spencer Gulf for commercial, recreational and charter boat fishing from 1 May 2026. This closure remains in place.

Garfish

A recreational and charter boat fishing closure for Garfish was implemented in Gulf St Vincent from 1 May 2026. The commercial fishery for Garfish in Gulf St Vincent is also closed. These closures remain in place.

King George Whiting

The temporary 50 per cent reduction in the King George Whiting catch limit for recreational and charter boat fishers in Gulf St Vincent remains in place.

In the Spencer Gulf Fishing Zone, normal catch limits apply.

Snapper

Snapper fishing remains prohibited across most South Australian waters, including the West Coast and Spencer Gulf fishing zones, Gulf St Vincent, Kangaroo Island and metropolitan waters, until 30 June 2027. Snapper may only be taken in the South-East Fishing Zone.

Blue Crab

Recreational and charter boat fishers can now take the full bag, passenger and boat limits for Blue Crab following an increase in abundance in Gulf St Vincent. The commercial Blue Crab fishery in the Gulf St Vincent/Kangaroo Island Fishing Zone also reopened from 1 May 2026.

For more information on daily bag and boat limits for each zone, please refer to the PIRSA website fishing limits.

Fishers are reminded that they are responsible for knowing and following fishing rules, closures and catch limits. Information is available through the free SA Recreational Fishing App and the PIRSA website.

The above restrictions are subject to ongoing review of fish stocks and updated scientific assessments by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) as part of the Algal Bloom Fish Recovery Program and the Algal Bloom Fishery Management Roadmap.

PIRSA continues to work closely with the recreational and commercial fishing sectors, including the newly established Recreational Fishing Authority, to support the sustainability of fish stocks in South Australian waters.

Fisheries Officers are continuing to patrol South Australian coastal waters to raise awareness of fishing regulations and ensure compliance. Penalties apply to those who breach fisheries laws.

Illegal or suspicious fishing activity can be reported through the SA Fishing App or by calling the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.

Recreational fishers are also encouraged to support ongoing scientific research by reporting their catches through the SA Fishing App.