“Juicy” scallops back on the menu for long weekend fishers

Passionate recreational fishers are dusting off their ocean gear and equipment for the long weekend as restrictions lift on harvesting “larger than usual” scallops.

Passionate recreational fishers will be dusting off their ocean gear and equipment for the long weekend as restrictions lift on harvesting “larger than usual” scallops.

Following a period of uncertainty TARFish CEO Jane Gallichan welcomed the announcement for the more than 8,000 statewide rock lobster license holders.

She said the delayed start to the season made way for a larger and juicier harvest after restrictions were initially laid down at the season’s beginning.

“Having a later season means they’ll be lovely and plump,” she said.

“Certainly they’ll keep going until the season ends in November.

TARFish CEO Jane Gallichan alongside diver Dane Jones of Lenah Valley as they are advocating to allow scallop fishers to dive. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“No one’s had a chance to get their hands on them yet so there’s plenty out there.”

Ms Gallichan said the recreational fishing community reacted positively to finding out restrictions would lift at 3pm on Friday.

She said recreational lobster, abalone and scallop fishers would play a key role in recovering regional and coastal towns.

“Recreational fishers will play an important role in rebuilding Tasmania’s economy and supporting Tasmania’s coastal communities that have been hit hard economically from the COVID-19 restrictions,” she said.

“From buying tyres for boat trailers to fishing equipment, fuel and bait – every bit counts in getting Tasmania back on its feet.”

Ms Gallichan said divers should stay safe and patient, check their equipment and keep an eye on weather warnings as boat ramps become busier.

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