Calamari closure areas

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

  • 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.
Map showing squid spawning closure areas and dates statewide

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.


    Contact

    Calamari Fishery Management
    Wild Fisheries Management Branch
    Level 3, 134 Macquarie Street
    Hobart TAS 7000
    Mobile: 0457 006 821
    Email: calamari@nre.tas.gov.au

    Recreational Fishing Enquiries
    Level 3, 134 Macquarie St
    Hobart TAS 7000
    Phone: 03 6165 3233, 1300 720 647
    Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au

    Hotline

    Fishwatch Report illegal fishing

    0427 655 557

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    Contact us

    Recreational Fishing

    Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

    Hobart TAS 7000

    Phone: (03) 6165 3233, 1300 720 647

    Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au

    Commercial Fisheries

    Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

    GPO Box 44

    Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

    Email: commercial.fisheries@nre.tas.gov.au

    Commercial Fisheries Licensing

    Level 1, 134 Macquarie St

    GPO Box 44

    Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

    Email: fisheries.licensing@nre.tas.gov.au