The calamari and squid fisheries are closed in two areas during peak calamari spawning periods.
Closure dates
The closures apply to both commercial and recreational fisheries.
North coast - All waters North of Cape Grim and Cape Naturaliste are closed from 1 September to 31 October inclusive in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
South east - All waters from Lemon Rock south to Whale Head (including Coles Bay and Great Oyster Bay) are closed from 15 October to 14 November inclusive in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Closure rules
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Taking or possessing calamari and other squid species is prohibited in the closed areas.
- Commercially purchased bait can be used. Recreationally caught squid or squid parts (e.g. bait) taken prior to the closure, or outside the closed area cannot be possessed in the closed area.
- You cannot possess a squid jig attached to a fishing line in the closed area.
Squid spawning closure areas statewide
Spawning closures
A significant increase in calamari catch levels by both sectors combined with a depleted stock status in the south east and a depleting stock status in the north has seen spawning closures put in place.
To help maintain stocks into the future, the closures will restrain catch and ensure that calamari won't be targeted when they are at their most vulnerable. To assist with compliance, the closure applies to all species of squid.