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Director - Fisheries Research, Dr Jim Penn. Photo: Klaus ...... and Garden Island, along the eastern shore of Garden ...... dynamics model, the Lake Argyle catfish stock is considered ...... for baldchin groper was 8,466 fish (23 tonnes) kept.
Report

S TAT E O F T H E F I S H E R I E S

1999-2000

To the Hon. Monty House MLA Minister for Primary Industry; Fisheries Sir In accordance with Section 263 of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994, I submit for your information and presentation to Parliament the report State of the Fisheries which forms part of the Annual Report of Fisheries WA for the financial year ending 30 June 2000.

Peter P Rogers EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Edited by J.W. Penn Produced by Fisheries Research Division Fisheries WA

Cover photographs: (inset and shadowed side bar) Fisheries WA Research Division staff with west coast rock lobster. Photo: Klaus Schmechtig. (top bar) Fisheries WA research vessel Flinders Photo: Jim Christianopolis.

Report

S TAT E O F T H E F I S H E R I E S

1999-2000

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Glossary of Acronyms ............................................(i)

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ..................................119

Executive Director’s Overview................................(ii)

Inner Shark Bay Recreational Fishery ....................119

Editor’s Overview ..................................................(iii)

North Coast Bioregion ..........................................123 South Coast Bioregion..........................................124

COMMERCIAL FISHERIES ......................................1

Recreational Salmon and Herring Fishing ..............124

General Overview ....................................................2

Northern Inland Bioregion ....................................125

West Coast Bioregion ..............................................3

Southern Inland Bioregion ....................................126

West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery................3

Recreational Marron Fishery....................................126

Minor Scallop Fisheries ..............................................10

Recreational Freshwater Angling ............................129

West Coast Blue Swimmer Crab Stocks....................13 West Coast Estuarine Fisheries ................................18

PEARLING AND AQUACULTURE ......................131

Lower West Coast Beach and Embayment Fisheries....22

General Overview ................................................132

West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery ..............28

West Coast Bioregion ..........................................133

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ....................................31

Mussel Farming........................................................134

Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery ..........................31

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ..................................135

Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery ....................35 Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery ........................39 Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net

North Coast Bioregion ..........................................136 Pearl Oyster Fishery ................................................137

Managed Fishery....................................................41

South Coast Bioregion..........................................142

Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery ......................44

Northern Inland Bioregion ....................................143

North Coast Bioregion ............................................46

Barramundi Farming ................................................144

Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery ..............................46

Southern Inland Bioregion ....................................144

Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery ..........................49

Marron Farming........................................................146

Broome Prawn Managed Fishery ..............................52

Yabby Farming ........................................................146

Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery ..........................55

Trout Farming ..........................................................147

Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi

Ornamental Fish Farming ........................................147

Managed Fishery ......................................................57 Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery........................................................60 Pilbara Demersal Finfish Fisheries ............................64 Spanish Mackerel Stocks ..........................................71

FISH AND FISH HABITAT PROTECTION............149 General Overview ................................................150 West Coast Bioregion ..........................................151

North Coast Shark Fisheries ......................................76

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ..................................154

South Coast Bioregion............................................78

North Coast Bioregion ..........................................156

South Coast Rock Lobster Fisheries..........................78

South Coast Bioregion..........................................157

Abalone Managed Fishery ........................................81

Northern Inland Bioregion ....................................158

South Coast Estuarine Fishery ..................................87

Southern Inland Bioregion ....................................158

Western Australian Salmon Managed Fishery ..........92 Australian Herring Fishery..........................................94 South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery..............97 Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fisheries ..102

Northern Inland Bioregion ....................................105 Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery ..................105

RECREATIONAL FISHERIES ..............................107 General Overview ................................................108 West Coast Bioregion ..........................................110 Recreational Western Rock Lobster Fishery............112 Recreational Abalone Fishery ..................................114 Recreational Blue Swimmer Crab Fishing ..............116 Cockburn Sound Recreational Angling ....................116 Recreational Marine Angling ....................................116

References............................................................159 APPENDICES ........................................................161 Appendix 1: Stock Exploitation Status and Catch Ranges for Major Commercial Fisheries..............162

Appendix 2: Fisheries Research Division Staff Publications........164

Appendix 3: Table of Catches from Fishers’ Statutory Monthly Production Returns of 1998/99 ..............169

Appendix 4: Profile of Fisheries and Aquaculture ........................171

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Contents

Contents

Executive Director’s Overview

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

AbMAC

Abalone Management Advisory Committee

NDSIMF

Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery

ADF

Aquaculture Development Fund

NPF

Northern Prawn Fishery

AFMA

Australian Fisheries Management Authority

PI

performance indicator

PIAC

Pearling Industry Advisory Committee

AIMWTMF

Abrolhos Islands and Mid-West Trawl Managed Fishery

RFAC

Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service

RLIAC

Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee

AQIS

CAESS

Catch and Effort Statistics System RPA

reef protected area

CALM

Conservation and Land Management, Department of

SCEF

South Coast Estuarine Fishery

CPUE

catch per unit effort

SRR

spawning stock–recruitment relationship

ENA

Extended Nursery Area SWFRAC

South West Freshwater Research

ERLMF

Esperance Rock Lobster

Glossary of Acronyms

Glossary of Acronyms

and Aquaculture Centre

Managed Fishery TAC

total allowable catch

ecologically sustainable development

VFLO

Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officer

FAS

Fisheries Adjustment Scheme

VMS

Vessel Monitoring System

FEMR

Fisheries Environmental Management Review

VRS

voluntary resource sharing

WADGDLMAC

Western Australian Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Management Advisory Committee

WCDGDLIMF

West Coast Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Interim Managed Fishery

WCRLMF

West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery

ESD

FHPA

fish habitat protection area

FMC

Fremantle Maritime Centre

FRDC

Fisheries Research and Development Corporation

GAB

Great Australian Bight

GPS

global positioning system

GRFS

Gascoyne recreational fishing survey

GVP

gross value of production

IQF

individually quick frozen

IMP

interim management plan

JASDGDLF

Joint Authority Southern Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery

KGBMF

Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery

MAC

Management Advisory Committee

MOP

mother-of-pearl

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

(i)

Executive Director’s Overview

Executive Director’s Overview

The State of the Fisheries document is designed as an essential supplement to the Annual Report to Parliament and provides a more Photo: Klaus Schmechtig

detailed level of information to support the agency’s non-financial performance measures.

Fisheries WA Executive Director, Peter Rogers.

By summarising management changes, compliance activities and research data such as landings, effort, catch rates, stock assessment and breeding stock levels, this document provides a valuable reference point for Western Australian fisheries of major importance to the commercial, recreational and aquaculture sectors. Information relevant to Fisheries WA’s Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program is also provided.

This more holistic approach to managing our fisheries will require that Fisheries WA continue to undertake its extensive research and monitoring role to ensure that reliable information is available to enable management to respond to future changes. Similarly, field management activities reported here are essential to ensure that all fishers understand and comply with the controls required to conserve our fish stocks for the future.

The report indicates that overall the major fish stocks which support fisheries in Western Australia continue to be in a reasonably healthy condition. The exceptions to this in 1999 were the pilchard fisheries along the south and lower west coasts, which were severely depleted by an exotic virus originating outside Western Australia and not within Fisheries WA’s management control.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by all Divisions of the agency in ensuring that these important data are collected and utilised to maintain our fisheries. Both commercial and recreational fishers are also to be commended for their high degree of support for the Fisheries WA management programs which conserve the State’s fisheries.

While the overall report card on Western Australian fisheries highlights our historical success in maintaining the State’s valuable fish resources, the increasing pressure brought about by population growth suggests that more innovative management methods will be required in the future, particularly for coastal fisheries. To address this need, Fisheries WA has recently launched a new Integrated Fisheries Management initiative to focus on how fisheries which are harvested by more than one user group can be better managed and monitored in the new millennium. This year’s State of the Fisheries has been restructured on a bioregional basis to begin the process of linking overlapping fisheries and allow for improved assessment and reporting in the future.

(ii)

Peter P. Rogers EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Editor’s Overview

Editor’s Overview State of the Fisheries reports in detail on the activities and impacts of the commercial and recreational fishing sectors which utilise the wild fish stocks in Western Australia. In addition, the status of the developing aquaculture industries is recorded to enable the public of Photo: Klaus Schmechtig

Western Australia to follow the development of this important sector. Activities of the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program are also reported to complete the coverage of the agency’s responsibilities.

Director - Fisheries Research, Dr Jim Penn

For all of the fisheries resources management programs covered by this report to be successful, a high degree of cooperation is necessary between the users of the State’s fish resources and the agency’s Divisions of Fisheries Research and Fisheries Management Services. The level of cooperation and collaboration between fishers and agency staff is excellent, and continues to be a major factor in keeping the harvest from our fish stocks at sustainable levels. Of particular value is the contribution of all the commercial vessels in providing monthly records of catches and fishing effort, and the completion of daily research logbooks and other voluntary records by about 500 skippers. These data are of great value in monitoring both the commercial fisheries and a variety of recreationally important fish stocks. Similarly, the agency’s programs are strongly supported by the Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers, who provide recreational fishing education support as well as data for monitoring recreational stocks. Individual recreational fishers and recreational fishing clubs also voluntarily contribute significant data to the recreational fisheries monitoring projects. Data from all of these sources, together with fisheryindependent research and monitoring projects, provide the basis for fisheries management in Western Australia. For this 1999/2000 edition of State of the Fisheries, the document has been significantly restructured, so that within each program area the fisheries reports are grouped into four marine and two inland bioregions (see Bioregion Figure 1 below). This change has been introduced to enable the State of the Fisheries reporting in future to relate to the agency’s increased focus on Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) principles and the demands of our new Integrated Fisheries Management initiative. Both of these initiatives represent a more holistic resource management approach, encompassing the interaction between fisheries and aquaculture and the aquatic environment in each bioregion. This new bioregional reporting is a first and important step in this process, showing which fisheries’ activities overlap and in which sector of Western Australia’s aquatic environment they occur.

A second innovation in this year’s report is the inclusion of a new environmental risk assessment section in most major commercial fisheries and aquaculture status reports. These brief new environmental sections focus on the level of risk of the various fishing activities. This environmental risk approach is a forerunner to the more specific environmental assessment process envisaged under ESD reporting for those fisheries or industries likely to have a significant effect on the environment. This is part of a national initiative to improve ESD reporting for the fisheries sector being coordinated by the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture, which represents all the fisheries agencies of Australia. In using this volume, readers should note that the individual fishery status reports relate to the last full year of production from the relevant fishery sectors. Owing to the time required for the process of data gathering, validation and analysis, this period is the 1998/99 financial year or the 1999 calendar year. In contrast, the information relevant to resource management activities relates to the most recent year (1999/2000) and provides an indication of actions flowing from the assessments of the state of the stocks in the previous year. The major purpose of this report is to provide detailed information on the status of individual fisheries across the State which underpins the Performance Indicators (PIs) for the agency presented in the Annual Report to Parliament. These PIs relate particularly to sustainability of the State’s fish stocks and include measures of breeding stock levels and catch projections for all major commercial stocks. The more detailed data contained in the individual fishery status reports provide information on historical trends in catches and fishing activities. This information allows the reader to better assess the performance of the fisheries or industries covered, and provides a summary of information used to audit the agency’s PIs. This volume is published each year as a companion to the Fisheries WA Annual Report to Parliament. Having been published annually since 1994/95, this series is now providing an ongoing record of the performance of the fisheries and fishing industries of Western Australia.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

(iii)

Editor’s Overview

Preparation and validation of the extensive array of information contained within this report is a significant task to which many Fisheries WA staff contribute through each year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues in the Fisheries Management Services and Fisheries Research Divisions for their extensive contributions. Special thanks are also due to my editorial team members, Mrs Kelly Jacoby and Ms Fran Head.

Dr J.W. Penn DIRECTOR - FISHERIES RESEARCH

114o 50' E

North Coast

Kununurra

Broome

Gascoyne Coast

Port Hedland Onslow As

hb

Exmouth

urt o

nR ive

Northern Inland r

Carnarvon Denham 27o S

27o S

Kalbarri Geraldton

West Coast

Southern Inland Eucla Perth

Esperance Augusta Albany

Black Point

South Coast 115o 30' E

BIOREGION FIGURE 1 Map of Western Australia showing the general boundaries of the bioregion areas referred to throughout this document.

(iv)

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Commercial Fisheries General Overview ..................................................2 West Coast Bioregion ............................................3 Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ................................31 North Coast Bioregion ........................................46 South Coast Bioregion ........................................78 Northern Inland Bioregion ................................105

General Overview

Commercial Fisheries General Overview The Commercial Fisheries Program is responsible for the management of commercial fisheries throughout Western Australia. This work is undertaken by a team of commercial program officers located in Fisheries WA head office in Perth as well as in regional offices in Fremantle, Albany, Carnarvon and Broome. Management of the major fishing activities is achieved through formal management plans declared under the Fish Resources Management Act 1994, while other forms of fishing activity are managed through a combination of controls derived from the Fish Resources Management Regulations 1995, orders under the Act and conditions attached to fishing boat and commercial fishing licences. The major commercial fisheries rely on relatively highvalue, low-volume products for their viability. Tight management controls ensure that each fishery is sustainable. The management controls may be input controls, such as limitations on the number of licences, seasonal closures and gear restrictions, or output controls (quotas) which directly limit the quantity of fish that can be caught. There are often also permanent closed areas or other measures to protect juvenile or breeding fish or to protect important habitats. A key factor in the successful management of fisheries is the rational implementation of advice on management issues and industry recognition of the need for a particular

management approach. Consultation with industry is a key factor in achieving management approaches which have strong support, and this is achieved through a variety of forums. In the major managed fisheries, management advisory committees (MACs) provide key advice to the Minister for Fisheries, while in the smaller fisheries, Fisheries WA commercial program staff meet directly with industry. Consultation also takes place through the production of discussion papers on proposed fisheries management arrangements. MACs currently provide advice on the West Coast Rock Lobster, Shark Bay Prawn, Shark Bay Scallop, Exmouth Gulf Prawn and Abalone Managed Fisheries, the purse seine fisheries, the demersal gillnet and longline fisheries, and the Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery. The five major commercial fisheries (West Coast Rock Lobster, Abalone, Exmouth Prawn, Shark Bay Prawn and Shark Bay Scallop) operate in a cost-recovered management environment, which requires that licensees in these fisheries cover their cost of management. Cost recovery has been phased in over a number of years, with the level of cost recovery operating at 100% of agreed cash costs in 1998/99 and 1999/2000. The remaining fisheries pay a contribution towards their management costs of 1.4% of their gross value of production (GVP). All fisheries also contribute to the Development and Better Interest Fund at a rate of 0.65% of their GVP, except in 1999/2000 when the rate was 0.69% to achieve the minimum fund level of $3.5 million.

Key Achievements During 1999/2000 a number of milestones were achieved in commercial fisheries including:

2



accreditation of the western rock lobster fishery by the Marine Stewardship Council as an ecologically sustainable fishery;



completion and release of the wetline fishing study, publication of a series of management papers in support of the Integrated Fisheries Management Strategy and the delivery of a series of information presentations throughout the State;



publication of ‘Developing New Fisheries in Western Australia - A Guide to Applicants for Developing Fisheries’ and the first call for expressions of interest under the policy;



finalisation of the consultation process on the South Coast Estuarine Fishery discussion paper;



the development of management strategies and total allowable catch (TAC) levels for the South and West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fisheries in response to the 1999 pilchard mortality, including a Fisheries Adjustment Scheme for the South Coast Purse Seine and related fisheries and a financial assistance package for the South and West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fisheries;



formal introduction of the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) in the Shark Bay Prawn and Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fisheries;



establishment of a Fisheries Adjustment Committee for the South West Trawl Managed Fishery;



finalisation of voluntary resource sharing (VRS) negotiations for the Cockburn Sound Crab Managed Fishery and implementation of the outcomes;



commencement of VRS discussions for the Demersal Gillnet and Longline (shark) Managed Fisheries and the Geographe Bay crab fishery, and agreement on VRS outcomes by the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery;



completion of a review of inshore crab fishing; and



review of the management plan for the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery and identification of potential changes.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000



an increase in the legal minimum size of lobsters from 76 mm to 77 mm from 15 November to 31 January; and



separate maximum sizes for female lobsters in the north and south of the fishery to reflect the latitudinal differences in both growth and maturation rates of the lobsters.

Regional Management Overview Commercial fishing in this bioregion is dominated by the western rock lobster fishery, but also involves significant fisheries for scallops, sharks, blue swimmer crabs, pilchards, and coastal and estuarine finfish, many of which are shared by the recreational sector. During 1999/2000 the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery became the first fishery in the world to be awarded Marine Stewardship Council chain of custody certification on the basis of demonstrating the ecological sustainability of its fishing and management operations. The 1999/2000 catch of over 14,000 tonnes was a record for the fishery. The Integrated Fisheries Management process raised the issue of the impacts of total catch levels of finfish by commercial and recreational fishers and the need to take the catches of both sectors into account in the management of fish stocks. In preparation for this initiative, major creel surveys of recreational boat fishing and estuarine crab fishing have been undertaken in recent years (see pages 111 and 116). The ‘Guidelines for Voluntary Resource Sharing’ process was successful in producing some major management changes in the Cockburn Sound Crab Managed Fishery. The Geographe Bay crab fishery and the ‘shark’ fishery are now also being reviewed in mediated meetings under the guidelines process.

West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY In 1999/2000, as in the previous seven seasons, the policy objective for the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery was to maintain the breeding stock to provide future recruitment of young lobsters to the fishery. Although catches in 1991/92 and 1992/93 were high, a major concern was advice received from the Fisheries Research Division that the breeding stock of rock lobster had been fished down to about 15% of the unfished or virgin size. This was below the internationally accepted safe level of approximately 25% of the original breeding biomass. A management package, attempting to address this problem by leaving more breeding stock in the water, was introduced for the 1992/93 season. The effect of the package in enhancing the breeding stock was not considered sufficient and a new package was developed during 1993 by the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee (RLIAC). This new package for the 1993/94 season aimed at leaving an additional 1,000 tonnes (approximately 10% of the average catch) of lobsters in the water at the end of that season.

Bioregion - West Coast

West Coast Bioregion

This 1993/94 package of management measures was originally intended to remain in place for two years while RLIAC developed options for the long-term management of the fishery. However, as the package appeared to be succeeding in its objective of rebuilding the breeding stock, and as its retention was supported by most fishermen, it was extended and has continued through to the 1999/2000 season. A record catch of over 14,000 tonnes was recorded in 1999/2000, and with good export prices the season was one of the most economically successful, if not the most successful, ever recorded. The fishery also became the first fishery worldwide to be awarded Marine Stewardship Council chain of custody certification on the basis of demonstrating the ecological sustainability of its fishing and management operations. As part of this ongoing certification process an Environmental Risk Assessment and Ecological Management Strategy will also be completed. While the flow-on impact of the Asian economic crisis was still a factor in the worst-hit of the traditional Asian markets, demand from these areas improved considerably in 1999/2000. Through aggressive marketing the industry continued to develop new market opportunities in Europe, China and the United States. Exchange rate variations continued to favour export prices. The Marine Stewardship Council certification should also help support growth in the developing European markets where there is growing consumer interest in ‘green’ products. An inquiry completed by the Legislative Council Standing Committee on Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) in May 2000 confirmed that ‘…the yield from the western rock lobster resource is currently sustainable and the infrastructure managing the fishery is operating along ESD principles…’ (Western Australia, Legislative Council 2000). The report also supported the existing regulation of the State’s rock lobster processing sector and raised a number of issues regarding the existing management consultative processes. An independent industry working group also examined and reported on options for industry consultative processes.

Management controls included:

Since indications are that the management package has been very successful in achieving the objective of rebuilding the breeding stock, no major changes are contemplated for the 2000/01 season, although changes to the management plan, to increase the flexibility for licensees in a business operating context and to help remove barriers to entry, have already been agreed in principle. These include:



an 18% reduction in the number of lobster pots allowed to be used by each boat;



individual numbering of pot entitlements;





a total ban on taking females in breeding condition (setose and tarspot);

the ability of those with access to 63 or more pot entitlements and a fishing boat licence to apply for a new managed fishery licence;

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

3

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries •

the ability of fishermen to retain an inactive managed fishery licence by retaining an inactive fishing boat licence and one or more inactive pot entitlements; and



provision for temporary pot transfers.

These initiatives have been supported by a research project, with funding from the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), to examine compliance in the rock lobster industry. With over 95% of the total rock lobster catch processed through licensed factories, it has been possible to use random inspections of factory-consigned catch to estimate the total amount of illegal product removed from the fishery. The project has estimated that total illegal landings of between 33 and 50 tonnes were consigned during the 1999/2000 fishing season, which equates to an average infringement rate of less than half a percent, or approximately 3 illegal lobsters in every 1000 animals consigned. This assessment of compliance in the processing sector has allowed a re-evaluation of how enforcement effort is deployed within the fishery, and a shift in emphasis from high levels of factory inspection to more proactive investigations of on-the-water fishing activities.

The majority of fishermen still appear to be committed to supporting the maintenance of most components of the existing management regime, and particularly those parts that protect breeding females. Nevertheless, some fishermen have questioned the need to maintain the 18% pot reduction and the protection of larger lobsters. Fisheries WA has completed research showing the relative impact of each of the measures designed to protect the breeding stock so that better-informed decisions can be made about possible changes to the management package in 2001/02 to help reduce the economic impact of an anticipated return to average catch levels. During 2000/01, licensees will be further advised on the options for the 2001/02 season .

Significant breaches detected during the 1999/2000 season included a conviction for being on a commercial vessel whilst under suspension which resulted in a two-year cancellation of the offender’s commercial fishing licence and a $113,000 fine. Further charges have been laid for 35 offences which are presently pending in the judicial process. Offences such as excess pots, interference with gear, fishing outside of zone or in closed areas, holding 76 mm lobster prior to gauge changeover and consigning totally protected fish were the predominant offences detected.

COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Management of this fishery has achieved a continued high level of compliance during the 1999/2000 season through a combination of sea and land patrols. Fisheries Officers carried out licence and gear inspections and provided advice to industry during the season. A compliance conference was held for the first time prior to the commencement of the season. As a result a review of operations led to a new field operations approach. The aim to adopt a more proactive intervention strategy has shown a 450% increase in detection of serious offences over 1998/99 levels.

The infringement notice system, in its fifth year of operation, was also used to maximum effect. There were 155 infringement warnings given, 41 infringement notices issued and 38 breach reports filed in the 1999/2000 season (West Coast Rock Lobster Table 1).

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER TABLE 1 Summary of commercial rock lobster breaches, warnings and infringements for the years 1998/99 and 1999/2000.

4

1998/99 Warnings Infringements

Breaches

1999/2000 Warnings Infringements

Offence Type

Breaches

Closed season

0

0

0

0

0

0

Illegal gear

2

1

1

1

3

2

Obstruction

0

0

0

0

0

0

Processing

1

0

2

7

2

2

Records/Returns

0

0

0

0

0

0

Spawners

0

114

9

2

48

3

Under-size

3

190

34

11

96

33

Excess gear

0

0

0

4

0

0

No licence

0

0

0

1

0

0

Over-size

0

0

0

0

2

1

Closed waters

2

0

0

10

0

0

Other

2

1

0

2

4

0

Total

8

305

46

38

155

41

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Bioregion - West Coast

RESEARCH SUMMARY Research activities continued to focus on forecasting future catch levels, monitoring of breeding stock levels, modelling and stock assessment. During the year, the length-structured simulation model to assess management options for maximising the value of the fishery continued to be developed. In addition, an age-structured model was constructed to determine estimates (with a measure of their uncertainty) of the impacts of individual elements of the management package introduced in 1993/94. The results were presented to industry. The objective of the 1993/94 management package, to return breeding stock abundance to levels considered safe, has been achieved with the breeding stock indices provided by the Fisheries Research Division now indicating egg production at or above target levels. Research now is focused on the evaluation of alternative harvesting strategies within the framework of sustainable fishing that has been established.

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘the waters situated on the west coast of the State bounded by a line commencing at the intersection of the high water mark and 21º44´ south latitude drawn due west to the intersection of 21º44´ south latitude and the boundary of the Australian Fishing Zone; thence southwards along the boundary to its intersection with 34º24´ south latitude; thence due east along 34º24´ south latitude to the intersection of 115º8´ east longitude; thence due north along 115º8´ east longitude to the high water mark; thence along the high water mark to the commencing point and divided into zones’. The fishery is managed in three zones: south of latitude 30°S (C Zone), north of latitude 30°S (B Zone) and, within this northern area, a third offshore zone (A Zone) around the Abrolhos Islands. Annual Production Main fishing method Rock lobster pots. Landings

West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by C.Chubb Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Rebuilt to at or above target levels Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: 13,000-14,000 tonnes (commercial) Catch current season (1998/99): 13,009 tonnes (commercial) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: $260 million Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 13,500-14,500 tonnes (commercial) Recreational component (1998/99): 626 tonnes (estimated) Note: The recreational catches given in State of the Fisheries reports up to and including the 1998/99 report were adjusted by a factor which estimated the illegal take of rock lobsters. This practice has been discontinued. The recreational catch is given here only as the catch actually reported by recreational fishers through research surveys. Thus, in the 1998/99 State of the Fisheries report the recreational catch was reported as 807 tonnes. Without the correction factor it was 485 tonnes. This also affects the estimates of commercial effort used to take the recreational catch (see Fishing effort below). For more information see Melville-Smith & Anderton 2000.

Trends in the annual catches from the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF) are shown in West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 1. The Australian Bureau of Statistics catch recorded from 1944/45 to 1970/71 was replaced by processors’ production figures in 1971/72. The 1998/99 catch in the WCRLMF was forecast from puerulus settlement to be 13,000-14,000 tonnes. Processors’ figures show the catch from the WCRLMF for the 1998/99 season was 13,009 tonnes, 19.9% greater than the long-term average catch of about 10,850 tonnes and 24.3% greater than the previous season’s 10,463 tonnes. In 1998/99, the catches in A Zone, B Zone and C Zone were 1,970 tonnes and 4,165 tonnes and 6,874 tonnes respectively, 9.9%, 16.5% and 34.8% higher than the previous season. In 1998/99, a survey of recreational rock lobster fishers estimated that they caught approximately 626 tonnes, which was a 29.1% increase on the catch estimate for 1997/98 of 485 tonnes (see note above). The increase again was due to larger catches in the southern sector, adjacent to the Perth metropolitan area. These estimates provide a good ‘index’ of recreational catches, however the method of estimating the recreational catch has been the subject of a review (see Melville-Smith & Anderton 2000). The total catch of western rock lobster from this fishery (commercial and recreational) was 13,635 tonnes, 24.5% higher than the previous season’s catch of 10,948 tonnes. Fishing effort The nominal fishing effort for 1998/99 was 10.75 million pot lifts, 0.2% higher than the 10.73 million pot lifts for the previous season (West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 1). The 1998/99 nominal effort for the A, B and C Zones of the WCRLMF was 1.22 million, 3.81 million and 5.72 million pot lifts respectively, 2.8% less, 0.8% less and 1.4% more than the previous season’s 1.25, 3.84 and 5.64 million pot lifts. Effort equivalent to 0.52 million commercial pot lifts was used by the recreational fishery to land its catches. This was 4% higher than the 0.50 million pot lifts used in 1997/98 (see note above).

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

5

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - West Coast

The total effort used in the WCRLMF during 1998/99 was 11.27 million pot lifts, 0.4% higher than the 11.23 million pot lifts made in 1997/98. Catch rate With the very high abundance of rock lobsters on the grounds in 1998/99, catch per unit of fishing effort increased dramatically (23.5%) over the rate in 1997/98 (1.21 and 0.98 kg/pot lift respectively) (West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 2). Trends in catch rates show a ‘cyclical’ pattern due to environmental effects on puerulus settlement; however, the overall decline in catch rate (abundance) from the 1950s to the early 1990s (West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 2) was one of the contributory reasons for the introduction in 1993/94 of management arrangements designed to rebuild breeding stock levels. The catch rates in the past six seasons have remained relatively high due to the improved survival of lobsters and lower levels of fishing effort resulting from the management package introduced in 1993/94. Stock Assessment The stock remains fully exploited. The current management arrangements, introduced in 1993/94, have achieved their objective of rebuilding the breeding stock. The 18% pot reduction and minimum size increase to 77 mm carapace length (15 November to 31 January) have meant that a proportion of the ‘whites’ catch has been shifted through to the ‘reds’ fishery in each season since 1992/93. However, because of the geographic variation in the size distribution of lobsters (generally smaller lobsters in the north), this has had a greater impact in the northern regions than in the south. Greater overall survival meant that some lobsters grew to a larger size before contributing to the catches in each of those years, with greater recruitment to the breeding stock and a flow of product through to following seasons. Pot usage under the management arrangements introduced in 1993/94 remained at 82%, or 56,816 pots allowed to be used during 1998/99. Industry continued to restructure and a further six vessels left the fishery, leaving 596 active commercial rock lobster boats in the fleet. Since latent effort has largely been removed from the fishery, pot reduction is now an effective tool with which to manage fishing effort in the WCRLMF. However, effort ‘creep’ has become evident, with nominal effort levels now 3.6% greater than the 10.38 million pot lifts of 1993/94 and 1994/95. Much of this has occurred in the C Zone where a 9% increase in nominal effort has been noted between 1993/94 and 1998/99. Therefore, effective fishing effort continues to increase, not only from effort ‘creep’ but also from the improved use of sophisticated fish-finding and navigational technology, resulting in an increase in efficiency. This will be factored into stock assessments and future management advice. Breeding Stock Levels Fishery-dependent spawning stock indices, which are based on commercial monitoring data, for the north (Jurien and Dongara) and south (Fremantle and Lancelin) coastal regions are presented in West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 3.

6

The egg production indices, obtained from fisheryindependent surveys of the breeding stock, for the Abrolhos Islands and coastal sampling sites are shown in West Coast Rock Lobster Figures 4 and 5 respectively. Both indices show that there has been substantial and very significant growth of the breeding stock in response to the management package introduced for the 1993/94 season, which specifically aimed at improving egg production. Current indications from both sets of indices used to monitor the breeding stock are that egg production has now reached or is above the target levels set in 1993/94. Indices of egg production derived from fishery-based data may become distorted as a result of the effects of technology and increases in fishing efficiency; variations in the distribution of fishing effort in response to annual variations in puerulus settlement and subsequent recruitment to the fishery; fishers’ responses to the regulations (e.g. the setose regulation), and/or market-driven factors. Therefore, fishery-independent breeding stock surveys to assess the strength of egg production will continue, and will act as a calibration for indices derived from fishery data. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) Total catch predictions for the WCRLMF are now made by summing the regional catch predictions based on puerulus settlement at the Abrolhos Islands (A Zone), Seven Mile Beach (Dongara) (B Zone) and Alkimos (C Zone) (West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 6). Catch estimates for C Zone are also forecast from combined puerulus settlement figures from a number of C Zone puerulus collection sites. These additional forecasts are not dissimilar to the predictions based on Alkimos settlement alone. Seasons 1999/2000 and 2000/01 are expected to produce commercial catches of around 13,500-14,500 tonnes (revised estimate) and 11,00012,000 tonnes respectively, the lower catch resulting from declining puerulus settlement following large numbers of pueruli settling in 1995/96 and 1996/97 (West Coast Rock Lobster Figure 6). Forecast recreational catches indicate that total rock lobster landings (commercial and recreational) will be in the range of 14,000-15,000 tonnes in 1999/2000. Product Value for Year 1998/99 The prices fishermen received for the western rock lobster commenced at a relatively low level but firmed as the season progressed. In both the northern and southern sectors of the fishery the average price paid to the fishermen in 1998/99 was $20.25/kg. This was almost identical to the price of $20.20/kg paid in the north during the previous season but $1/kg more than the $19.25/kg paid in the south in 1997/98. The value of the landed catch in the WCRLMF in 1998/99 was approximately $260 million. Environmental Risk Assessment Fishery-independent monitoring indicates that the impact of rock lobster fishing on the bycatch of fish and invertebrates and protected species is minimal. Similarly, the legislated design of rock lobster pots and the strict control of replacement pots prevents ‘ghost fishing’ problems arising. In terms of ecosystem effects, the

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

forecast to peak in 1999/2000, then decline to average or above average levels as result of recent lower puerulus settlements. It is noteworthy that fishing effort ‘creep’ has been occurring in the fishery, principally in C Zone, and that nominal effort was 3.6% higher in 1998/99 than it was in 1993/94, when an 18% temporary pot reduction came into effect as part of the new management package. The increased recreational catch in 1998/99 again was primarily due to a greater number of licences being issued (increase of 8.5% compared with 1997/98) and a high proportion of licensees actually undertaking some fishing activity (see Recreational Western Rock Lobster Fishery status report). This response was probably partly due to the forecasts for a record catch for the 1998/99 season. In this season the rock lobster industry made application to the Marine Stewardship Council for the fishery to be assessed as an environmentally sustainable fishery and subsequently became the first fishery worldwide to receive such accreditation.

General Comments The management package introduced in 1993/94 achieved its objectives of reducing the exploitation rate, increasing the breeding stock and allowing egg production to be maintained at or above the target levels. Catches are

14 Catch 12

Effort

10 8 6 4 2

94/95

89/90

84/85

79/80

74/75

69/70

64/65

59/60

54/55

49/50

0 44/45

Catch and fishing effort (millions of kg and millions of potlifts)

Bioregion - West Coast

fishery is unlikely to cause significant ‘food web’ changes, as the sub-legal-sized lobsters and protected breeding stock components form a significant proportion of the biomass and remain relatively constant from year to year. Overall, the effect of the fishery on the wider ecosystem is assumed to be minimal. Notwithstanding this, and noting the magnitude of the fishery, a formal environmental risk assessment is under way as part of Marine Stewardship Council accreditation (http://www.msc.org), and a study of human impacts (including rock lobster fishing) on the marine environments of the Abrolhos Islands has been funded by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (http://www.frdc.com.au).

Season

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 1 Annual catch and nominal fishing effort from fishers’ compulsory monthly returns for the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery from 1944/45 to 1998/99.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

7

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries

Catch per unit effort (kg/potlift)

2.0 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2

94/95

89/90

84/85

79/80

74/75

69/70

64/65

59/60

54/55

49/50

44/45

0.0

Season

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 2 Annual catch rate (kg/pot lift) for the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery from 1944/45 to 1998/99.

0.30 North South

Spawning Index

0.25

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

98/99

94/95

90/91

86/87

82/83

78/79

74/75

70/71

0.00

Season

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 3 Time series of monitoring spawning stock index (an index of numbers of eggs/pot lift integrated over the whole season) for the north (Jurien and Dongara) and south (Fremantle and Lancelin) coastal regions.

8

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

3.0

Millions of eggs/potlift

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0 1991

1992

1993

1994

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

Year

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 4 Egg production indices as measured by the independent breeding stock survey at the Abrolhos Islands.

1.2

Millions of eggs/potlift

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0 1992

1993

1994

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

Year

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 5 Egg production indices as measured by the independent breeding stock survey at the coastal sampling sites.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

9

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries Puerulus (number/collector)

250 Abrolhos Dongara Alkimos

200

150

100

50

98/99

95/96

92/93

89/90

86/87

83/84

80/81

77/78

74/75

71/72

0

Season

WEST COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 6 Annual indices of puerulus settlement for the Abrolhos (A Zone), Seven Mile Beach (Dongara) (B Zone) and Alkimos (C Zone) areas.

Minor Scallop Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Several minor fisheries contribute to Western Australia’s scallop catch, primarily the Abrolhos Islands and MidWest Trawl Managed Fishery and the South-West Trawl Managed Fishery (Fremantle-Geographe Bay). Scallop landings also result from a small amount of trawl activity that takes place off the south coast east of Esperance. Each fishery takes saucer scallops (Amusium balloti) by otter trawling and, as with the Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery, recruitment is highly variable and catch in these fisheries varies greatly from year to year. All scallop fisheries operate under input controls, with restrictions on boat numbers and gear as well as seasonal and area closures. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Abrolhos Islands: There were no significant compliance issues during the 1999/2000 Abrolhos scallop season. A compliance briefing was conducted in the regional office during the pre-season for interested operators.

Advice on the status of stocks and season opening and closing dates is provided to industry advisory bodies. The following status reports summarise the research findings for these smaller scallop fisheries. Abrolhos Islands and Mid-West Trawl Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: 400-600 tonnes (whole weight) based on October 1998 survey Catch current season (1999): 590 tonnes (whole weight)

South-West Trawl: No compliance issues reported. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research monitoring of the scallop stocks in each fishery is undertaken utilising fishers’ monthly return data, and an industry-based pre-season survey in the case of the Abrolhos sector.

10

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $2.6 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Based on October 1999 survey, 250-400 tonnes (whole weight)

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

There are 17 vessels licensed to fish for scallops in this limited entry fishery. The permitted fishing area opened on 8 April and closed on 30 June 1999. The Port Gregory trawl fishery operates as part of the Abrolhos Islands and Mid-West Trawl Managed Fishery (AIMWTMF). The permitted fishing area opened on 1 March for prawns and 8 April for scallops, and was closed on 31 October 1999. Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total landings for the 1999 season were 590 tonnes whole weight (Abrolhos Islands Scallop Figure 1).

The estimated value of the AIMWTMF for 1999 was $2.6 million.

Bioregion - West Coast

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all the waters of the Indian Ocean adjacent to Western Australia between 27º51´ south latitude and 29º03´ south latitude on the landward side of the 200 m isobath’.

Environmental Risk Assessment The trawl fleet operates over a very small portion of the licensed fishing area, focusing on scallop aggregations on relatively bare sand habitat associated with this species. Owing to the focused nature of this fishery, little bycatch is taken during the typically short fishing season. The overall impact is assessed as low. General Comments During November 1999, a research survey was carried out on board a commercial fishing vessel. The purpose of the survey was to gauge scallop recruitment so that industry might organise their fishing operations for the 2000 season. It is anticipated that this survey will continue around this period each year and form the basis of a stock assessment and forthcoming season catch projection for this fishery. The catch of king prawns from the Port Gregory area is minor and regarded as an incidental catch of the AIMWTMF. There is no stock assessment or catch projection for this portion of the AIMWTMF.

Fishing effort A total of 2,865 trawl hours were recorded for the 1999 season. Catch rate 255 kg (whole weight)/hour. Stock Assessment As with the Shark Bay scallop fishery, this fishery is highly variable, being dependent on sporadic recruitment which is strongly influenced by environmental conditions, e.g. the Leeuwin Current. A pre-season survey has occurred in the last three seasons and is planned to continue. More detailed assessments are not undertaken. Breeding Stock Levels The annual fishing season is managed so that the majority of the mature scallops are able to spawn before fishing occurs. Breeding stocks are therefore adequate, and recruitment is dependent only on environmental conditions each year. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The catch range over the last five years is 45-1,585 tonnes (whole weight). Using the November 1999 survey data, the projected catch range for 2000 is likely to be 250-400 tonnes (whole weight). During the survey, the recruitment was generally low in traditional survey sites. One patch, however, showed good recruitment levels. This site had not been included in past surveys but was found during the 1998 season by fishers and was surveyed that year. Product Value for Year 1999 The estimated value of the catch has been based on the average wholesale price per kilogram obtained in the Shark Bay fishery, that is $4.35/kg (whole weight) or $21.75/kg (meat weight). Meat weight is 20% of the whole weight.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

11

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries Abrolhos Islands annual scallop catch and effort 3,000

20,000

2,500

18,000

Effort (fishing days)

16,000 14,000

2,000 12,000 10,000

1,500

8,000

1,000

6,000

Effort (trawl hours)

Landings (tonnes whole weight)

Landings (tonnes whole weight)

4,000

500 2,000 0

0 85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

Year

ABROLHOS ISLANDS SCALLOP FIGURE 1 Annual scallop landings for the Abrolhos Islands and Mid-West Trawl Managed Fishery, 1985-1999.

South-West Trawl Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: No previous catch projections made Catch current season (1999): Prawns 5 tonnes Scallops 25 tonnes (whole weight) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: Prawns $70,000 Scallops $110,000 Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Not available Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all the waters of the Indian Ocean adjacent to Western Australia between 31º43´27˝ south latitude and 115º08´ east longitude where it intersects the high water mark at Cape Leeuwin, and on the landward side of the 200 m isobath’.

12

The area is further divided into four management zones, with a limited number of operators (indicated in brackets) permitted access to fish within each zone as follows: Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D

from 31º43′27″S to 32º16′S (3 vessels); from 32º16′S to 115º08′E (12 vessels); north-east of Cape Naturaliste (4 vessels); Comet Bay off Mandurah (3 vessels).

A total of 14 vessels are licensed to operate in this fishery, some in more than one zone. Zone A, B and D vessels may fish all year round. Seasonal access to Zone C occurs between 1 July and 30 September. Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings Prawns 5 tonnes. Scallops 25 tonnes whole weight. Fishing effort Not assessed. Catch rate Not available. Stock Assessment Not assessed. Breeding Stock Levels Not assessed.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Product Value for Year 1999 Prawns: Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, prices for king prawns averaged $14.70/kg. Scallops: The estimated value of the catch has been based on the average wholesale price per kilogram obtained in the Shark Bay fishery, that is $4.35/kg (whole weight) or $21.75/kg (meat weight). Meat weight is 20% of the whole weight. Environmental Risk Assessment The areas trawled by the fleet represent a very small percentage (< 5%) of the licensed fishing area. Trawling for scallops is focused on a few small offshore areas, while the prawn catch is mainly taken from Comet Bay. An extensive study (Laurenson et al. 1993a) of the environmental effects of this fishery has shown that the fishery has minimal impact on bycatch species and the benthic sand habitats involved. The overall impact is assessed as low. General Comments The level of fishing activity and quantity of catch within the South-West Trawl Managed Fishery is variable. This variability has largely been driven by the level of scallop recruitment to these grounds and also the product price paid to fishers. Owing to a significant latent fishing effort, there is a need to continue to monitor catch and effort within this fishery. Effort levels can only be assessed, however, by the number of days fished, which is derived from fishers’ monthly return records. This catch and effort data cannot be used to assess the stock, but does provide a source of information from which management decisions for this fishery can be made.

Bioregion - West Coast

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Not available.

West Coast Blue Swimmer Crab Stocks MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Blue swimmer crabs comprise the major proportion of inshore crab catches in Western Australia and are found along the entire Western Australian coast. They may be targeted by a variety of fishing gear. The primary methods used by commercial fishers targeting crabs are crab traps or drop nets. Crabs are also taken by trawl gear in several prawn and scallop trawl fisheries. Recreational fishers may take blue swimmer crabs by hand, nonpiercing wire hook, wire scoop net and drop net. Commercial access to oceanic areas with abundant blue swimmer crab stocks is controlled under a series of separate management arrangements. In Cockburn and Warnbro Sounds, commercial access is managed under the provisions of the Cockburn Sound and Warnbro Sound management plans. (For further information about the details of management please refer to page 22.) The use of crab traps in waters off Mandurah, Shark Bay and Geographe Bay is strictly controlled under various arrangements provided in the Fish Resources Management Act 1994. The management arrangements for the south and lower west coast estuaries also deal with commercial access to crab stocks in those waters. Set nets have been and are still used in estuaries, although the Mandurah Estuarine Fishery has been experimenting with crab traps. The total annual commercial catch of crabs is monitored through information provided on monthly catch and effort returns. Fishermen have the opportunity to provide more detailed information via a voluntary daily research logbook program. Data on recreational crab catches are collected from periodic creel surveys. In 1998/99, competition for access to blue swimmer crabs in south-west estuaries and south-west oceanic waters was a source of friction between commercial and recreational fishers. However, a decline in the number of commercial fishermen in the estuaries and the introduction of interim arrangements for commercial crab fishing in Geographe Bay has significantly reduced the concerns of the respective sectors. The arrangements for commercial fishing in Geographe Bay are currently: •

no commercial crabbing up to 400 m offshore between Dolphin Road and the Port Geographe marina, and within 800 m of the Busselton jetty;



no commercial crabbing between one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset; or on weekends and public holidays; or during the spring, summer and autumn school holidays;



crab traps or drop nets permitted;



minimum size for crabs increased to 128 mm (from 127 mm).

The interim arrangements for Geographe Bay are currently being reviewed in mediated meetings conducted under the ‘Guidelines for Voluntary Resource Sharing’ FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

13

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries process. The guidelines use mediated negotiation as the means to achieve management arrangements designed by the participants to achieve agreed resource-sharing outcomes. Generally, the participants include representatives of commercial and recreational fishers, Fisheries WA, and other key stakeholders. The process was successful in producing some major management changes for commercial fishermen licensed to operate in the Cockburn Sound Crab Managed Fishery (see page 22). Comprehensive advice and recommendations relating to the three-year Inshore Crab Review (1997-1999) were submitted to the Minister for Fisheries in 1999/2000. The advice addressed crab fishing issues in estuarine and ocean waters. Consideration of future management arrangements has been held in abeyance while further advice is being developed in respect of commercial and recreational interaction around the centres of Carnarvon, Denham and Exmouth. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research monitoring of the expanding fishing activity for blue swimmer crabs was initially based on monthly returns and interviews with commercial crab fishers. Owing to the rapid expansion of this fishery and the need for additional research information to ensure sustainability of catches, a number of new research projects funded by the FRDC were instigated during 1997/98. This research on the basic biology of crabs along the WA coast, gearcatchability relationships, recreational catch surveys, commercial catch monitoring, discard mortality estimation and stock assessment modelling will be completed in 2000/01. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. West Coast Blue Swimmer Crab Stock Status Report Prepared by M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Preliminary assessment completed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections (1998/99): 600-800 tonnes (based on last two years) Catch current season (1998/99): 577 tonnes

Recreational component (1998/99): Estimated 400 tonnes (based on survey data over last five years) Boundaries and Access There are two managed commercial crab fisheries, namely the Cockburn Sound and Warnbro Sound (Crab) Managed Fisheries. The Cockburn Sound fishery includes all waters within a line drawn from South Mole at Fremantle to Stragglers Rocks, then through Mewstone to Carnac Island and Garden Island, along the eastern shore of Garden Island and back to John Point on the mainland. The Warnbro Sound fishery includes Warnbro Sound itself and adjacent waters, extending generally from Becher Point to John Point. One licence holder has access to the Warnbro Sound managed fishery, while access to the Cockburn Sound managed fishery is by 16 licence holders. Licence holders in the Exmouth Gulf Beach Seine Fishery, Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net Managed Fishery, and estuarine fisheries south of latitude 32ºS, are permitted to take blue swimmer crab by drop net or set net. Six licence holders have been issued an exemption to take crabs using pots (40 pots each) in the waters of Geographe Bay. These exemptions expired on 31 December 1999. The trial arrangement for two commercial fishers to take crabs by pots (80 pots each) in the waters of Comet Bay was extended until 31 December 1999. The Carnarvon Experimental Crab Pot Fishery is also continuing, with three fishers permitted to take crabs using 200 pots each. Exemptions to fish in the Carnarvon Experimental Crab Pot Fishery are granted on an annual basis. One Shark Bay beach seine fisher and one Cockburn Sound fisher are permitted to take crabs using up to 200 pots in Shark Bay. These two fishers have a long-standing and continuing history of targeting crabs in these waters. Recreational fishers also take significant quantities of crabs, particularly in the south-west of the State. Surveys to estimate the recreational take have been undertaken for some regions during the past five years. Annual Production Main fishing method Pots. Landings A commercial catch of 577 tonnes of blue swimmer crab was taken in 1998/99, 22% down on the 740 tonnes caught in the 1997/98 season. Commercial catches in Cockburn Sound contributed 238 tonnes (30% decline), while other areas making a substantial contribution to total landings were the Peel-Harvey Estuary (63 tonnes, 3% increase) and Shark Bay (132 tonnes, 13% decline) (see Blue Swimmer Crab Figure 1).

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: $1.7 million Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 600-800 tonnes (based on catches of last three years)

14

Fishing effort The commercial crab catch is made using a large variety of fishing methods (see Blue Swimmer Crab Figure 2). In the past year, 77.4% of the commercial catch was taken by pots, while the balance of the catch was taken mostly

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Catch rate Because of the variety of fishing methods in use and areas being fished, a single catch rate statistic has not been produced. Comparative rates are given here for the three areas contributing most of the blue swimmer crab catch for the past year. The catch rate using pots in Cockburn Sound fell by 27% compared with the previous season. In the Peel-Harvey Estuary, catch rates rose by 27% for pots but decreased by 42% for gillnets compared with the previous year. In Shark Bay, the potting catch rates decreased by 7%, whilst trawl catch rates decreased by 57%. Recreational Catch For a discussion of recreational catches, see page 116. Stock Assessment A preliminary assessment has been made using catch rates for pots and gillnets. Pot catches show an increase between 1993/94 and 1997/98. The increases have been accompanied by an increase in overall effort. A slight decline in catches and catch rates was observed in 1998/99 (Blue Swimmer Crab Figure 3), but generally catch rates (kg/potlift) have remained relatively stable over the last eight years, with no trend evident at this stage.

Bioregion - West Coast

by trawling (11.1%), gillnetting (8.8%) and drop netting (2.5%). Fishing effort overall increased by 5% for pots while decreasing by 30% for trawling, 38% for gillnets and 41% for drop nets in the last year. This continues the trend from the mid-1990s towards use of pots in commercial crab fishing.

Crabs are taken as bycatch of prawn and scallop trawling activities and the retained catch has been recorded as part of catches for a number of years. In some instances crab catches have been substantial and not all have been retained, however evidence from other fisheries studies suggests that most crabs survive the process. As the commercial take of crabs represents a relatively small portion of the biomass which is effectively renewed annually, secondary food chain effects are likely to be minimal in these fisheries. Bycatch reduction devices are currently being trialled in WA trawl fisheries, mainly to reduce the take of sharks and rays which damage the quality of the target catch. General Comments The commercial fishery has been expanding in the last few years as the main commercial sectors converted from set nets to dedicated crab pots, and there is still potential for future commercial expansion in areas not currently exploited. This pressure on stocks, together with concern from the recreational sector, has resulted in a number of management changes to maintain catch shares between the two sectors. These sharing arrangements are expected to generate ongoing demands for information on recreational catches to match those available from the Catch and Effort Statistics System (CAESS) for commercial fishing.

Catches and catch rates (kg/day) using gillnets showed an increasing trend between 1991/92 and 1993/94 (Blue Swimmer Crab Figure 4). Since 1993/94, overall catch and effort has decreased, with much of this decrease attributed to the conversion from nets to pots. During this period catch rates have declined slightly. Breeding Stock Levels As the legal size at first capture is well above the size at maturity, the annual commercial catch is a reasonable index of breeding stock size. In all sectors of the fishery, the breeding stock levels are therefore expected to be adequate to maintain stocks. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) Commercial catches are expected to be in the range 600-800 tonnes, based on catches in the last three years. Product Value for Year 1998/99 The catch was valued at approximately $1.7 million in 1998/99, with most of the product going to local and interstate markets. Environmental Risk Assessment The shift from using gillnets to pots in most areas has resulted in a substantial reduction in bycatch from crab fishing. Fishing with pots results in limited habitat disturbance, with only minor dragging of pots on the bottom during pot retrieval.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

15

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries 1000

Catch (tonnes)

800

Shark Bay Others

Total Peel-Harvey estuary Cockburn Sound

600

400

200

0 88/89 89/90 90/91 91/92 92/93 93/94 94/95 95/96 96/97 97/98 98/99

Year

BLUE SWIMMER CRAB FIGURE 1 Commercial catch history for the blue swimmer crab (Portunus pelagicus) in Western Australia between 1988/89 and 1998/99, indicating main regions of commercial catches.

600

Catch (tonnes)

500

Drop net

Trawl

Gillnet (set net)

Other

Pot

400 300 200 100 0 88/89 89/90 90/91 91/92 92/93 93/94 94/95 95/96 96/97 97/98 98/99

Year

BLUE SWIMMER CRAB FIGURE 2 Blue swimmer crab catch taken by different gear types in Western Australia during the period 1988/89 to 1998/99.

16

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

500

1.0

400

0.8

300

0.6

200

0.4 Catch Effort CPUE

100 0 91/92

Bioregion - West Coast

1.2

CPUE (kg/potlift)

Catch (tonnes) and effort (potlifts x 10-3)

600

0.2 0.0

92/93

93/94

94/95

95/96

96/97

97/98

98/99

Year

BLUE SWIMMER CRAB FIGURE 3 Blue swimmer crab catch (tonnes), effort (potlifts) and catch per unit effort (kg/potlift) in Western Australia during the period 1991/92 to 1998/99 using pots.

4.5 Catch Effort CPUE

200

4.0 3.5 3.0

150

2.5 2.0

100 1.5

CPUE (kg/day)

Catch (tonnes) and effort (days fished x 10-2)

250

1.0

50

0.5 0 91/92

92/93

93/94

94/95

95/96

96/97

97/98

0.0 98/99

Year

BLUE SWIMMER CRAB FIGURE 4 Blue swimmer crab catch (tonnes), effort (days fished) and catch per unit effort (kg/days fished) in Western Australia during the period 1991/92 to 1998/99 using gillnets.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

17

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries West Coast Estuarine Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY There are four restricted entry estuarine fisheries operating in the metropolitan and south-western regions of the Western Australian coastline, as follows:

The following status report summarises the research findings for these fisheries.



Swan-Canning Estuarine Fishery



Peel-Harvey Estuarine Fishery



Leschenault Inlet Estuarine Fishery

Main Features



Hardy Inlet Estuarine Fishery

Stock assessment complete: Preliminary assessments for select targeted species only (black bream, cobbler and King George whiting)

Management arrangements include gear restrictions, seasonal and time closures, area closures and boat restrictions. Many of the seasonal and time closures are designed to provide equitable sharing arrangements for the fish resource. Estuarine fishing areas, fishing practices and resourcesharing issues are increasingly becoming the subject of community interest. In order to maintain a basic level of commercial presence and production while effecting a resource shift towards the recreational sector, specific estuarine voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Schemes have been initiated. These schemes allow fishers to negotiate surrender of their estuarine authorisation. In addition to the adjustment schemes, management issues, particularly those addressing resource-sharing issues, have been debated in various degrees of detail in the recently released Fisheries Management Paper no. 131 (Fisheries WA 1999c). This paper forms part of the Integrated Fisheries Management Strategy process. It proposes the target (or optimum) number of fishing units that should be reached in each fishery before transferability is considered. Consultation for the review of the west coast estuarine fisheries, as part of the Integrated Fisheries Management Strategy process, continued in 1999/2000. It is anticipated that consultation for new management arrangements for all of Western Australia’s estuarine and embayment fisheries will continue in the 2000/01 year. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance within the commercial Swan-Canning, Peel-Harvey (Mandurah), Leschenault and Hardy Inlet Estuarine Fisheries was generally good. Fisheries Officers monitor licences, gear restrictions, closed-water boundaries, fish size limits and the setting and retrieval limits in these fisheries. Overall compliance levels appeared to be satisfactory in these fisheries, except in the Peel-Harvey fishery where there were reports of interference with commercial fishing gear. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research monitoring of fish stocks in the west coast estuaries is primarily based on CAESS returns provided by industry. These data are interpreted using the extensive scientific knowledge of the fish stocks in estuaries derived from research by Fisheries WA and Murdoch University 18

scientists during the 1970s and 1980s. This database from commercial fishermen provides a valuable and consistent source of information for monitoring recreationally important stocks where they are harvested by both groups.

West Coast Estuarine Fisheries Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara

Exploitation status: Target species: Black bream Cobbler

Not assessed Over-exploited in Swan-Canning, Peel-Harvey and Leschenault estuaries King George whiting Not assessed

Breeding stock levels: Target species: Black bream Adequate Cobbler Adequate King George whiting Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: Swan-Canning 63-85 tonnes Peel-Harvey 240-420 tonnes Leschenault 67-108 tonnes Hardy Inlet Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators) Catch current season (1999): Swan-Canning 55.6 tonnes (includes fish and crustaceans) Peel-Harvey 256.7 tonnes (includes fish and crustaceans) Leschenault 59.8 tonnes (includes fish and crustaceans) Hardy Inlet Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators) The above totals include the following catches of key target species: Black bream 2.8 tonnes Cobbler 10.6 tonnes King George whiting 14.2 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for 1999: Swan-Canning $158,000 (includes fish and crustaceans) Peel-Harvey $763,000 (includes fish and crustaceans) Leschenault $140,000 (includes fish and crustaceans) Hardy Inlet Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators)

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Boundaries and Access Swan-Canning: level of access - 6 units Peel-Harvey: level of access - 14 units Leschenault: level of access - 6 units Hardy Inlet: level of access - 2 units The levels of access listed above are as at April 1999. Unit holders in the four west coast estuaries are endorsed to fish a single west coast estuary system only. The status of the fishery in each of the above estuaries is reviewed annually. Please note, where fewer than five fishers are involved in a particular fishery, the data are subject to the confidentiality provisions of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994 and are not reported. This report presents information for three of the most valuable finfish species from the west coast estuaries, namely black bream, cobbler and whiting. These stocks are not subject to specific management plans, but are exploited as a part of the larger estuarine fishery. Annual Production Main fishing method Gillnet/haul net. Landings Swan-Canning: Reported catches in the Swan-Canning Estuary over the last 25 years are shown in West Coast Estuarine Figure 1. The 1999 catch showed a decrease from the 1998 catch figure and continued the overall decline in catches during the 1990s. The catch from the Swan-Canning was composed primarily of blue swimmer crab, Perth herring and sea mullet, with small quantities of black bream, yellow-eye mullet and tailor. Peel-Harvey: Reported catches in the Peel-Harvey Estuary over the past 25 years are shown in West Coast Estuarine Figure 2. The total catch for 1999 showed a decrease from the 1998 catch figures. The reported total catches have shown only slight variation during the 1990s. Approximately 65% of the finfish catch was comprised of sea mullet, yellow-eye mullet and King George whiting. Leschenault: The total catch for 1999 of 59.8 tonnes showed a decrease from the 1998 value of 88.1 tonnes. While the overall total catches over the past 25 years display a declining pattern, the catches during the past decade have remained fairly stable. The finfish catch was dominated by sea mullet, yellow-eye mullet and western sand whiting. Hardy Inlet: Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators). As with the other three west coast estuaries, the majority of the catch was composed of sea mullet, yellow-eye mullet and western sand whiting.

Bioregion - West Coast

Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Swan-Canning 60-85 tonnes Peel-Harvey 250-400 tonnes Leschenault 70-100 tonnes Hardy Inlet Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators)

Black bream: Catches of black bream were reported from the Swan-Canning Estuary, the Peel-Harvey Estuary and the Hardy Inlet during 1999. The reported catches from the Swan-Canning Estuary showed a decline from the 1998 catches, while the reported catches from Hardy Inlet increased slightly from 1998. The actual reported catches from individual estuaries are, however, confidential due to the small number of boats involved in taking this species. Cobbler: The reported catches of cobbler in the SwanCanning Estuary have been declining from the late 1980s, with 1999 being the lowest on record. The 1999 catches in the Peel-Harvey Estuary have increased from 1998 levels. In the Leschenault Inlet, there was a sharp decline in the reported catch from 1997 to 1998. The 1999 reported catch was slightly lower than the 1998 catch. The actual reported catches from individual estuaries are, however, confidential due to the small number of boats involved in taking this species. King George whiting: The King George whiting catches for 1999 reported from the Peel-Harvey Estuary declined from the high value of 1998. In the previous three years the catch of King George whiting had increased, probably due to the more marine nature of the Peel-Harvey system since the opening of the Dawesville Channel. A different pattern was seen in the Leschenault Inlet with declining catches throughout the 1990s. The current 1999 reported catch increased from the 1998 catch, which was the lowest since 1969. The actual reported catches from individual estuaries are, however, confidential due to the small number of boats involved in taking this species. Fishing effort Fishing effort has been reported as the average number of boats fishing per month. This measure of effort gives only a very general indication of effort changes. The number of days fished is also recorded, but it is difficult to determine targeted effort from this measure. Swan-Canning: The fishing effort has tracked alongside the catches in this fishery (West Coast Estuarine Figure 1). The general trend has been a decrease in the number of fishing units since the mid-1970s; currently the mean monthly number of boats fishing is four. Peel-Harvey: Fishing effort has remained at fairly constant levels during the 1990s after a rapid decline during the 1970s and 1980s (West Coast Estuarine Figure 2). Currently there are, on average, 12 boats actively fishing in the fishery each month. Leschenault: The general overall trend is for a decline in fishing effort in this fishery. In 1999 the mean monthly number of boats fishing was four. Hardy Inlet: Data not available for publication (fewer than five operators). Catch rate Swan-Canning: While the annual values of the catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the finfish fishery in the SwanCanning Estuary have varied over the past 15 years, the overall catch rate trend generally has been stable.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

19

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries Peel-Harvey: The catch rate has followed the catches in this fishery. The 1999 CPUE has decreased from the 1998 CPUE.

bream possess different growth rates in different estuaries. In all cases, the legal minimum length is set above the length at maturity.

Leschenault: The overall trend since the late 1980s has been a stable catch rate, with some annual variation, generally following the fluctuations in catches. The 1999 CPUE has decreased from 1998 CPUE levels.

Cobbler: A preliminary eggs-per-recruit model was developed for the cobbler fishery in the Swan River using biological data for Swan River cobbler from research by Nel (1983). The minimum legal length for cobbler is 430 mm total length which corresponds to an age of approximately 3 years. Sexual maturity is related to both age and length. Generally 2+ years fish (approximately 230 mm) and older were considered mature, however, a small proportion of exceptionally large 1+ individuals (> 385 mm males and 405 mm females) were also found to be mature for this population. Preliminary results of the model indicate that the limit biological reference point for eggs per recruit at 30% of the number of eggs of the virgin stock is F@30%eggs = 0.26. Detailed evaluation of the status of breeding stock levels of this species cannot be achieved until there is an understanding of the level of fishing effort or a catch curve for this species. However, because the size at maturity is less than the legal minimum length, breeding stock levels are believed to be adequate. Cobbler exhibit different growth rates depending on the estuary in which they reside. In all cases the size at maturity is less than the legal minimum size affording protection to the breeding stock.

Hardy Inlet: Data are not available for publication (fewer than five operators). Stock Assessment Black bream: A preliminary yield-per-recruit stock assessment was developed for the black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) fishery in the Swan River using biological data for the Swan River population from research by Sarre (1999). The results of the model indicate that the limit biological reference point should not exceed F0.1 = 0.215.* At this time, age structure information is not available to determine the current level of fishing mortality. Cobbler: A preliminary yield-per-recruit stock assessment was developed for the cobbler (Cnidoglanis macrocephalus) fishery in the Swan River using biological data for Swan River cobbler from research by Nel (1983). The results from the model indicate that the limit biological reference point should not exceed F0.1 = 0.173. At this time, age structure information is not available to determine the current level of fishing mortality. King George whiting: A preliminary yield-per-recruit stock assessment was conducted for the King George whiting (Sillaginodes punctata) fishery along the lower west coast using biological data from research by Hyndes et al. (1998) and Potter et al. (1997). The results of the model indicate that the limit biological reference point should not exceed F0.1 = 0.23 (with age at first capture at 2 years) or F0.1 = 0.28 (with age at first capture at 3 years). At this time, age structure information is not available to determine the current level of fishing mortality. * F0.1: this fishing mortality is a widely accepted value of the level of fishing mortality that might result in the optimum economic return from the fishery.

Breeding Stock Levels Black bream: A preliminary eggs-per-recruit model was developed for the black bream fishery in the Swan River using biological data for the Swan River population from research by Sarre (1999). The legal minimum length is 250 mm which corresponds to an age of approximately 3 years. The age at maturity is 2+ years with a corresponding length of 212 mm for males and 218 mm for females. Preliminary results of the model indicate that the limit biological reference point for eggs per recruit at 30% of the number of eggs of the virgin stock is F@30%eggs = 0.24.** Further evaluation of the status of breeding stock levels of this species cannot be achieved until there is an understanding of the level of fishing effort or a catch curve for this species. However, because the size at maturity is less than the legal minimum length, breeding stock levels are believed to be adequate. Black

20

King George whiting: A preliminary eggs-per-recruit assessment will be developed for the lower west coast King George whiting fishery using biological data from research by Hyndes et al. (1998) and Potter et al. (1997). The legal minimum length for King George whiting to the west of Point D’Entrecasteaux is 250 mm. (For areas to the east, the legal minimum length is 280 mm.) The age at first capture is 2+ to 3+ years at approximately 250 mm length. The length at 50% maturity is 413 mm for females. King George whiting breed in the open ocean at age 4 with juveniles using estuaries and coastal waters as nursery habitats for the first few years of their life. Fishing pressure in the open ocean for mature King George whiting is low, therefore the breeding stock is protected and believed to be adequate. ** F@30%eggs: the fishing mortality that would not decrease the egg production of the stock, at equilibrium, to a level less than 30% of the unexploited egg production.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The acceptable catch ranges under current management arrangements are given in the Main Features at the beginning of this status report. The acceptable catch ranges are derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the past annual catches through to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, changes to the management arrangements may need to be considered. Environmental Risk Assessment Not available.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

Product Value for Year 1999 The value of the fisheries in each of the estuaries is given in the Main Features at the start of this status report. General Comments It will be noted that the reported catches for 1999 in the Swan-Canning and Leschenault estuaries fall below the lower limit of the range previously projected, while those for the Peel-Harvey Estuary are at the lower end of the projected range. This may be attributed to a decline from 1998 levels in the mean monthly number of boats actively fishing in all three estuaries. To enhance the stock assessment of the key estuarine species, there is a need to gain a better understanding of targeted fishing effort and to gather the data to be able to develop a catch curve for these species. Some of this information will be collected as a part of the FRDCfunded project to develop a methodology for a long-term annual index of recruitment for finfish species from southwestern Western Australia.

Swan and Canning Estuaries

35

350

1,200

30

300

1,000

25

250

20

200

15

150

10

100

5

50

0

0

800 600

CPUE (kg)

Effort

Total catch (tonnes)

400 Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

200 0 93

95

97

99

Year

WEST COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 1 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the total fishery of the Swan-Canning Estuary over the period 1974-1999.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

21

Total catch (tonnes) 60 50

Peel Inlet and Harvey Estuary

1,000

2,500

800

2,000

600

1,500

400

1,000

Effort

40 30 20 10 0

200

CPUE (kg)

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries

500

Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

0

0 75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

WEST COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 2 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the total fishery of the Peel-Harvey Estuary over the period 1974-1999.

Lower West Coast Beach and Embayment Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Within this sector there are five managed fisheries focused mainly in the Cockburn Sound area, details of which are listed below. West Coast Beach Bait (Fish Net) Managed Fishery: There are 13 licensees in this fishery. Small pelagic fish are taken primarily by beach seine method within the coastal waters between the mouth of the Moore River, north of Perth, and Tims Thicket, south of Mandurah. Management of beach seining activities in areas of the lower west coast will be examined in the review of southwest beach seine access arrangements. The major target species for these fisheries is whitebait, Hyperlophus vittatus, with small quantities of other species being taken. As the whitebait stock in the south-west of Western Australia is found mainly in a thin coastal strip close to the coast and the stock size is relatively small, the exploitation rate by commercial fishers should not be permitted to increase above current levels. Cockburn Sound (Crab) Managed Fishery: This fishery has been reviewed under the ‘Guidelines for Voluntary Resource Sharing’ process which resulted in an Agreed

22

Arrangements Proposal. This represents the outcome of negotiation between representatives of the commercial and recreational sectors and the agency. The stated objectives of the Agreed Arrangements Proposal are: ‘To achieve either an 800 pot commercial fishery or an explicit proportional catch share of 3/8ths recreational and 5/8ths commercial take of blue manna crabs in the Cockburn Sound Crab Fishery within 3 years from the date of the gazettal of the 20% commercial pot reduction. If the proportional catch share arrangements, including the progressive reduction of commercial pot numbers are not achieved, then further management mechanisms will be introduced.’ The Minister for Fisheries approved the Agreed Arrangements Proposal and amendments have been made to the Cockburn Sound (Crab) Management Plan to incorporate these management arrangements. These included an initial 20% ‘across the board’ crab pot reduction, an increase in the legal minimum size for crabs to 130 mm (for the commercial sector only), removal of gillnets as a permitted means of fishing, the introduction of a Fisheries Adjustment Scheme, and provision for nontransferable B Class licence holders to convert to A Class licences. On conversion there will be a further 50% reduction in crab pots. The arrangements will also see the creation of a consultative structure to provide future cross-sectorial advice to the Minister for Fisheries on crabs in Cockburn Sound.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

The ‘Agreed Arrangements’ for the Cockburn Sound crab fishery are the first outcome from public applications made under the ‘Guidelines for Voluntary Resource Sharing’ process, and represent a successful cross-sectorial negotiated agreement in the difficult area of resource sharing. Cockburn Sound (Fish Net) Managed Fishery: There are six licence holders in this fishery. Fish are taken by gillnet, beach seine and haul net. The main species targeted are garfish and Australian herring. Other fish species including shark, whiting and mullet are taken opportunistically.

Cockburn Sound Finfish Fisheries Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed (multi-species fishery) Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: 38-92 tonnes (finfish only) Catch current season (1999): 90.9 tonnes (catch excludes whitebait, pilchard, scaly mackerel, anchovy, blue sprat, molluscs and crustaceans)

The catch of garfish and Australian herring has been rising steadily since the 1970s. The rate at which the catch of these two species is increasing is of some concern as they are both important recreational species. There is concern also that declining Australian herring catches on the south coast may impact on the Cockburn Sound fishery.

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $242,000 (Cockburn Sound Line and Pot Managed Fishery and Cockburn Sound Fish Net Managed Fishery)

Cockburn Sound (Mussel) Managed Fishery: There are three licensees with access to this fishery. In 1997 the Minister for Fisheries approved an amendment to the management plan to permit licence transferability on a limited basis, allowing mussel dive licences to be transferred to holders of aquaculture licences endorsed to cultivate mussels in Cockburn Sound. This essentially allows for the integration of the wild-catch fishery with the farmed mussel sector in Cockburn Sound.

Boundaries and Access There are four managed fisheries which operate wholly and two managed fisheries which operate partly within Cockburn Sound. The Cockburn Sound (Mussel, Crab, Fish Net, and Line and Pot) Managed Fisheries operate entirely within Cockburn Sound, while the West Coast Beach Bait (Fish Net) and the West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fisheries operate partly within Cockburn Sound.

Cockburn Sound (Line and Pot) Managed Fishery: There are currently 31 licensed fishers in this fishery, although not all licensees exercise their fishing entitlement. The fishing methods employed include handline, longline and squid jigging; the pots used are unbaited octopus pots. Baited pots require the written approval of the Executive Director of Fisheries WA.

The gillnetting, crab netting (and potting), mussel diving and line and pot fisheries are all restricted to the waters of Cockburn Sound. The catches in this report are for finfish only and are mainly from the Cockburn Sound (Line and Pot) and the Cockburn Sound (Fish Net) Managed Fisheries. As at 31 December 1999 there were four licensees in the fish net fishery and 32 licensees in the line and pot fishery.

Many of the species targeted by this fishery are also targeted by recreational fishers, e.g. shark, pink snapper, garfish and Australian herring. Commercial landings of King George whiting, western sand whiting, squid and octopus from Cockburn Sound have declined in recent years. Possible reasons may include environmental factors, fishing pressure and marketdriven forces, or a combination of these factors. While Fisheries WA remains cautious about this trend, the underlying reasons for these declines are yet to be revealed. RESEARCH SUMMARY Data for monitoring the status of the various stocks taken from Cockburn Sound are obtained primarily from the CAESS records provided by industry. These data, together with biological knowledge from historical research updated by the major study on herring completed this year, provide the basis for this report.

Bioregion - West Coast

A total of four B Class licences were withdrawn under the Fisheries Adjustment Scheme which, combined with the initial 20% crab pot reduction, resulted in the number of authorised crab pots being reduced from 1,600 to 960. This, combined with the expected conversion of remaining B Class licences, should see a further reduction in crab pot numbers to 840 crab pots in the year 2000.

Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 40-95 tonnes (finfish only)

A status report for the whitebait stock follows. Separate status reports are given elsewhere in this volume for the West Coast Purse Seine, mussel and crab fisheries (see pages 28, 134 and 14 respectively). Annual Production Main fishing method Gillnet (set net), haul net, handline, octopus pot, beach seine and purse seine. Landings The total catch of finfish from Cockburn Sound reported here excludes bait fish (whitebait, pilchard, scaly mackerel, anchovy and blue sprat), molluscs and crustaceans. The reported catch is primarily from the Cockburn Sound (Line and Pot) and the Cockburn Sound (Fish Net) Managed Fisheries; however, the figures

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

23

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - West Coast

include the catch of finfish, other than those five species mentioned above, from the West Coast Beach Bait (Fish Net) and the West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fisheries, which conduct part of their operations within Cockburn Sound. From the early 1990s the finfish catches increased to a peak catch in 1992 and then declined to 60.1 tonnes in 1998. The 1999 catch represented an improvement at 90.9 tonnes (Cockburn Sound Figure 1). The catch of sea garfish has increased steadily from 1980 to a high level in 1994, after which time the catch declined, with a substantial drop in 1997. However, since 1997 the catch has increased to a peak of 36.8 tonnes in 1999 (Cockburn Sound Figure 2). Continued increases in the catch will need to be monitored. Australian herring catches showed a steady increase from 1980, reaching a peak in 1994 (around 50 tonnes). Since that time, catches have declined. The catch for 1999 was 22.3 tonnes (Cockburn Sound Figure 3). Fishing effort The fishing effort (measured as the number of fishing boat days) in Cockburn Sound provides an indication of the overall usage of the area by the commercial sector, since it is composed of a number of different fisheries and various fishing methods.

Environmental Risk Assessment This small-scale, multi-species fishery using line and mesh nets to target primarily surface species is unlikely to generate significant impacts such as discarding, as virtually all species taken are marketed in the metropolitan area. Similarly, its operation is unlikely to have any impact on the habitat of the Sound. General Comments While relatively limited in overall value, the production from the commercial fishery provides a valuable input to the metropolitan fresh fish market. Catch information from the small commercial sector also provides a valuable input to the research database for monitoring the abundance of these stocks, which are also important to recreational fishing. Catch statistics from the recreational sector have not been available for stock assessment purposes until recently. However, the commercial CPUE does provide an index of annual abundance to monitor overall trends in stock availability to both sectors and to link to recreational data in years when surveys occur.

The fishing effort peaked during the early 1990s at 1,400-1,600 boat days. It then declined to 882 boat days in 1997, but has increased again during the past two years, with a reported effort of 1,562 boat days for 1999. Catch rate The catch rate for the different fisheries and the various fishing methods has averaged around 80 kg/boat day during the past 10 years. The peak catch rate during the 1990s was 101.8 kg/boat day in 1992 and the lowest reported catch rate was 43.4 kg/boat day in 1990. The 1999 catch rate was 58.2 kg/boat day. Stock Assessment Not assessed. Breeding Stock Levels Not assessed. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The expected catch range under the current management regime is 40-95 tonnes of finfish. This projection is derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the annual catches to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, management arrangements may need to be reviewed. Product Value for Year 1999 The estimated value of the finfish catch from Cockburn Sound for 1999 was about $242,000 (Cockburn Sound Line and Pot Managed Fishery and Cockburn Sound Fish Net Managed Fishery).

24

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Cockburn Sound 1,800 Catch - tonnes CPUE - kg/boat day Effort - boat days

160

1,600

140

1,400

120

1,200

100

1,000

80

800

60

600

40

400

20

200

0

Effort (boat days)

180

CPUE (kg/boat day)

Bioregion - West Coast

Fish catch (tonnes)

0 81

83

85

87

91

89

93

99

97

95

Year

COCKBURN SOUND FIGURE 1 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for finfish (excluding bait fish) for the Cockburn Sound fisheries over the period 1980-1999.

Fish catch (tonnes)

Sea Garfish Cockburn Sound 1,800

40

Catch - tonnes CPUE - kg/boat day Effort - boat days

1,600 1,400

30

1,200 25

1,000 20

800 15

600

10

400

5

200

0

Effort (boat days)

CPUE (kg/boat day)

35

0 81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

COCKBURN SOUND FIGURE 2 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for sea garfish (Hyporhamphus melanochir) in the Cockburn Sound fisheries over the period 1980-1999.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

25

Fish catch (tonnes)

Australian Herring Cockburn Sound

CPUE (kg/boat day)

60

1,800 Catch CPUE - kg/boat day Effort - boat days

50

1,600 1,400 1,200

40

1,000 30 800 600

20

400 10

Effort (boat days)

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries

200 0

0 81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

COCKBURN SOUND FIGURE 3 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for Australian herring (Arripis georgianus) in the Cockburn Sound fisheries over the period 1980-1999.

Whitebait Stock Status Report Prepared by D. Gaughan Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: 210-290 tonnes Catch current season (1999): 107 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $0.2 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 223-308 tonnes Boundaries and Access The West Coast Beach Bait (Fish Net) Managed Fishery extends from Lancelin in the north to Tims Thicket in the south (metropolitan and Mandurah sectors) with access currently via limited entry licence. The south-west beach seine fishery extends from Tims Thicket in the north to Point D’Entrecasteaux. The whitebait fishery within this

26

area typically operates only between Cape Naturaliste and Preston Beach, which is termed the Bunbury sector. Access arrangements for the whitebait fishery are currently under review. Annual Production Main fishing method Beach seine net. Landings The figures presented here are for the catches of whitebait only; incidental finfish catch figures have been included in the Cockburn Sound status report. Metropolitan: The catch of whitebait (Hyperlophus vittatus) for the metropolitan region during 1999 was only 5.3 tonnes, a major decline from the average of 27.8 tonnes over the previous two years (Whitebait Figure 1). Mandurah: The whitebait catch at Mandurah (5.8 tonnes) narrowly exceeded that for the metropolitan region in 1999 and has therefore been reported separately. Bunbury: The Bunbury catch increased this year to 96 tonnes from the 76 tonnes caught in 1998 (Whitebait Figure 1). Catches were again dominated by the summer period in this region. Fishing effort Given the schooling behaviour of this species and targeting of schools by fishermen, no meaningful measure of effort and therefore catch rate can be obtained for this fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Stock Assessment The annual assessment for this fishery utilises the total catch as an indicator of abundance, on the reasonable assumption that catchability remains stable but that fishing effort adjusts so as to take a similar proportion of the available stock in all years. On this basis, the abundance in the dominant Bunbury sector in 1999 was the same as in the previous year. This was in contrast to the low abundance in the metropolitan and Mandurah sectors. The 1999 catch was much less than expected from the previously observed positive relationship between the Fremantle sea level (Leeuwin Current) and catch in the following year. That is, the high annual catch of whitebait expected in 1999 following a very strong Leeuwin Current during 1998 did not eventuate. This result indicates that the Leeuwin Current relationship may not fully explain the cyclic nature of the catches, and that impacts on the breeding stock may also be involved. If, however, the previous Leeuwin Current relationship holds, the high sea level in 1999 indicates an increased catch in 2000. Breeding Stock Levels Previous modelling and plankton sampling indicate that the typical stock size of whitebait is probably less than 1,000 tonnes for the entire west coast. However, the current catch levels, particularly in the metropolitan sector, suggest that breeding stocks may have become a limiting factor and need to be monitored.

Bioregion - West Coast

Catch rate See Fishing effort above.

conditions are particularly calm. There is typically no significant bycatch in this fishery; bycatch of juvenile pilchards infrequently occurs in the Geographe Bay sector, but because sorting of the catch is impractical, such mixed catches are released. All fishing occurs over sandy substrate and the impact of the relatively light fishing gear is minimal. The distribution of the stock and its highly variable recruitment cycle, apparently related to oceanographic effects, indicate that predatory birds, fish and fishermen cannot rely on the availability of whitebait to support themselves in all years. The distribution of the stock in relation to the gear and location constraints, which largely limit fishing to within 80 m of the shore, suggests that natural predators have greater access to the stock than does the fishery. The ecological impact of the fishery is considered to be medium to low. General Comments Annual catch in this fishery will most likely continue to exhibit large fluctuations under the influence of environmental factors. This fishery will therefore continue to be regulated through limited entry access and gear restrictions, and is in the process of becoming fully managed. It was anticipated that the Leeuwin Current/whitebait model would be critically reviewed during 1999 but this was not undertaken due to unscheduled activities associated with the 1998/99 pilchard mass mortality.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The average monthly Leeuwin Current in 1999 was very strong, being the highest ever recorded. The historical Leeuwin Current/whitebait model suggests that the 2000 catch will be in the range 223-308 tonnes. However, it is not known whether the relationship between the Leeuwin Current and whitebait catch remains linear when the current is extremely strong. On the basis of previous catches (1989-1998), and assuming similar effort levels during that period will continue, the acceptable catch range for the Bunbury sector appears to be between approximately 90 and 290 tonnes. Should this catch range not be achieved, changes to the management arrangements will need to be considered. Product Value for Year 1999 Price was similar to that obtained in 1998, with an average of $1.80/kg. Total catch value was about $0.2 million. Environmental Risk Assessment This fishery targets schools of whitebait using specifically designed seine nets with small-mesh pockets. The beach seine nets are set by small dinghy and hauled by hand. A single operator also fishes using a hand-hauled purse seine net worked from a small boat. The fishery operates in sheltered waters of Geographe Bay, Warnbro Sound, Cockburn Sound and boat harbours in the Fremantle area. Exposed beaches north and south of Mandurah form important parts of the fishery but can only be fished when

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

27

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries 350 Total Metropolitan Mandurah Bunbury (Geographe Bay)

Catch (tonnes)

300 250 200 150 100 50 0 75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

WHITEBAIT FIGURE 1 Total annual catch of whitebait for each sector from 1975 to 1999 (note that as of 1998 if the Mandurah catch is < 1 tonne it will be added to the metropolitan catch).

West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY This fishery is based on the capture of pilchards (Sardinops sagax) and scaly mackerel (Sardinella lemuru) by purse seine nets in the waters off the west coast of Western Australia. It is managed under the provisions of the West Coast Purse Seine Management Plan 1989. The product has a variety of uses, being sold for human consumption, angling bait, commercial bait, tuna food and pet food. The recreational angling bait market is currently the main focus. As in the south coast fishery, the spread of a Herpesvirus throughout the west coast in 1995 and again in 1998/99 has had a serious impact on the stock. In response to the concerns for the fishery, in March 2000 the Minister for Fisheries announced that the maximum quantity of pilchards that may be taken in the fishery for the 2000/01 licensing period will be 260 tonnes. Management arrangements are currently based on limited entry and controls on gear and boat size; however, it has been accepted for some time that the fishery should be managed under a quota arrangement. The framework of arrangements that would see the change to quota management has been developed following consultation with stakeholders but has yet to be legislated.

28

COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Until now the management arrangements for this fishery have required limited compliance activity. However, the proposed introduction of quota management will substantially increase the monitoring requirement to maintain the integrity of the quota allocation. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research on this fishery continues to utilise CAESS data, biological monitoring of catches and spawning biomass estimates from egg surveys. The most recent survey of spawning biomass was undertaken in July-August of 1999, following the mass mortality. These data are compiled into the following status report and ultimately will be used to set and review TACs once the fishery moves to quota management. West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by D. Gaughan Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Previous catch projections for year 1999: None made due to pilchard mass mortality Catch current season (1999): 1,103 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $0.7 million Acceptable catch/effort range for year 2000: 260 tonnes (quota) Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all Western Australian waters between 31º south latitude (near Lancelin) and 33º south latitude (near Cape Bouvard) and on the landward side of the 200 nautical mile Australian Fishing Zone limit, but excluding those waters within the boundaries of the Marmion Marine Park Reserve No. 1’. Access to the fishery is under a limited entry system with eight full licences and six supplementary access holders. No quota system is in place at present. As there is currently no evidence for separate adult assemblages along the lower west coast (in contrast with the situation on the south coast), catch data from the developmental purse seine fishing zone, which lies between Cape Bouvard and Augusta, is included in the total for the West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery. Annual Production Main fishing method Purse seine net. Landings The combined catch of pilchards and scaly mackerel for the managed fishery area and the developmental zone again decreased substantially from 2,378 tonnes in 1998 to 1,103 tonnes in 1999; this follows on from similarly sharp declines in 1997 and 1998 (West Coast Purse Seine Figure 1). The contribution of scaly mackerel continued to increase, accounting for nearly 50% (532 tonnes) of the total purse seine catch. The recent mass mortality event of 1998/99, possibly combined with reduced vulnerability to fishing of pilchards due to shifts in distribution of the stock following warmer than average water temperatures associated with the La Niña climate pattern of 1999, contributed to the substantial reduction in annual catches of pilchards along the lower west coast. Fishing effort Not available. Catch rate Not applicable.

Bioregion - West Coast

Breeding stock levels: Low

Stock Assessment In early 1999, a mass mortality event passed through the west coast stock after originating in South Australian waters and passing through the south coast of Western Australia. Pilchard mortalities were estimated to be much higher than in the similar disease event in 1995. A post-mortality biomass survey was considered necessary to estimate the size of the remaining stock. In 1996, spawning biomass was estimated using a planktonbased survey to be at least 20,000 tonnes. Another spawning biomass survey carried out in late July/early August of 1998 estimated that the spawning biomass of pilchards along the lower west coast of Western Australia between Yallingup (south of Cape Naturaliste) and Jurien Bay was 18,985 tonnes, with a range of 9,000-28,951 tonnes. An important result from the 1998 survey was the reduced confidence intervals. That is, the range of lower and upper limits around the best estimate of spawning biomass was much narrower than for the 1996 survey (13,000-55,000 tonnes). The tighter confidence intervals obtained in 1998 markedly reduced the range between the upper and lower limits. Of particular importance was the upper end of the range, which appeared to be much less than the estimate of 55,000 tonnes obtained in the 1996 survey. This most recent survey indicated that the spawning biomass of pilchards off the lower west coast was likely to have been less than 25,000 tonnes prior to the mortality event. The estimate of spawning biomass obtained after the mortality event was 5,275 tonnes (3,948-6,652 tonnes), approximately 28% of the pre-mortality estimate obtained in 1998. This strongly supported the estimate of a 70% mortality rate caused by the virus epidemic, an estimate that was based on data collected along the south coast of Western Australia and independent estimates made in South Australia. In 1998, adult pilchards were less abundant than usual on the fishing grounds, although late in the year juveniles were very abundant, which had been expected to result in a strong recruitment of two- and three-year-old pilchards in 1999. This pattern was in fact observed, with these two age-classes dominating the 1999 catch. The very high proportion of recruits (36%) was by far the highest recorded for the west coast pilchard fishery. There is anecdotal evidence that the stock of pilchards off Fremantle moved away from the regular fishing grounds in late 1997 and that the more tropical scaly mackerel (Sardinella lemuru) largely replaced pilchards as the dominant sardine in the metropolitan region of the fishery. The decline in the pilchard catch which continued into 1998 has now also continued into 1999. While this may have resulted from decreased availability to the fleet rather than sudden changes in stock size (albeit there is no quantitative evidence for this assumption), the postmortality survey of spawning biomass in 1999 showed that adult (i.e. spawning) pilchards were present in shelf waters between Hillarys and Cape Naturaliste. Thus the estimated spawning biomass of 5,275 tonnes, upon which management decisions for the 2000 season were based, applied to pilchards distributed widely over an area which fully encompassed the regular fishing grounds of the West Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

29

Bioregion - West Coast

Commercial Fisheries Breeding Stock Levels See Stock Assessment above.

General Comments While a cap of 260 tonnes has been implemented for the 2000 season, an individual transferable quota system with an associated TAC has not been formally legislated. The biomass estimate from the survey planned for July 2000 will be used to advise on appropriate TACs for the west coast fishery for the year 2001.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Because of the low breeding stock level (5,275 tonnes), an exploitation rate of 5% was recommended for this fishery, as a rate greater than this was considered to pose too high a risk to the recovery of the stock. The Purse Seine Management Advisory Committee thus recommended that the catch not exceed 260 tonnes.

The mid-west coast purse seine fishery that operates out of Geraldton recorded substantial catches of scaly mackerel by a single operator in 1999, contrasting with the lack of effort (and hence catch) in this fishery during 1998. Catch and effort data were obtained from daily logbook records. The fishery continues to operate predominantly during winter. Annual catch rates in both tonnes per day and kilograms per litre were approximately 20-30% higher than the values recorded for 1996 and 1997. These data indicate a substantially greater abundance of Sardinella in the Geraldton region in 1999 than in 1998. The background to this relatively quick increase in abundance is not well understood but is possibly linked to mesoscale shifts in the distribution of the stock.

Environmental Risk Assessment Not provided due to impact of disease outside of this State’s management control. Product Value for Year 1999 The majority of the product is still processed for angling bait, pet food and tuna food, although increasing amounts are now processed for human consumption. Total catch value for 1998 was approximately $0.7 million.

4,000 Total

Catch (tonnes)

Pilchards

3,000

Scaly mackerel (Sardinella)

2,000

1,000

0 75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

93

Year

WEST COAST PURSE SEINE FIGURE 1 Annual catches of pilchards and scaly mackerel along the lower west coast.

30

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

95

97

99

Regional Management Overview The Gascoyne coast bioregion is home to the State’s major trawl fisheries for prawns and scallops in Shark Bay and Exmouth Gulf. In addition, the region supports the important Shark Bay snapper and beach seine fisheries, which provide most of the pink snapper and whiting catch for the State. A fishery for blue swimmer crabs is also developing, based in Carnarvon (see page 14). The major change in the Gascoyne bioregion was the introduction of the VMS into the Shark Bay prawn and scallop fisheries. There was also further trialling of bycatch reduction devices in the Shark Bay and Exmouth Gulf prawn fisheries. Proposals for new management arrangements in the Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery were progressed through a number of consultative meetings.

Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery targets western king prawns (Penaeus latisulcatus), brown tiger prawns (Penaeus esculentus) and a variety of smaller prawn species including coral prawns (various species) and endeavour prawns (Metapenaeus spp.). King prawns are the dominant species caught, comprising about 70% of the catch. Tiger prawns make up most of the remaining 30%. The 27 boats in the fishery also catch between 20% and 30% of the annual scallop catch in Shark Bay. Most large king and tiger prawns are exported whole or headless to Asia (Japan) and Europe, while the Australian markets take most of the smaller king and coral prawns. The fishery has an annual value of around $25-30 million, however the value of the catch fluctuates according to catch levels, the prices of prawns on world markets, and exchange rates. Management of the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery is based on limited entry, boat size, gear controls, season and area openings and closures, moon phase closures and daily fishing time controls. The 2000 fishing season commenced on 13 March and is planned to close on 4 November. The timing of the opening of the season allows the harvest of large residual prawns which were not caught in the previous year’s season. Within the main fishing period, various subsidiary openings and closures occur which are aimed at protecting prawns from growth and recruitment overfishing. Since the 1999 season moon closures have been made more variable, changing from a standard three-day period to between three and five days over the full moon period. This change is aimed at increasing economic efficiency by shifting fishing effort away from the period where catch rates are reduced and a greater proportion of the catch is soft-shelled and therefore less marketable. Permanent nursery areas of the fishery remain closed to protect tiger prawn breeding stocks and to prevent the fishing of small prawns.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion

Cooperative management of the fishery is achieved through the provision of advice by the Shark Bay Prawn Management Advisory Committee. The advice provided allows for the management arrangements to be better tailored for achieving the maximum economic return from the prawn resource as well as maintaining sustainability of the fishery and ensuring cost-effective management. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Licence and gear inspections were carried out by Fisheries Officers from Carnarvon and Denham. At-sea inspections were conducted using the patrol vessels Walcott and John Brockman with particular attention paid to the surveillance of nursery areas. Fisheries Officers conducted numerous boardings of trawlers in order to inspect catch and gear. The VMS at Carnarvon was introduced into the management plan in April 2000. Industry began to trial the use and effectiveness of bycatch reduction devices. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research activities continued to focus on stock assessment and monitoring the status of the prawn stocks, particularly tiger prawns. All vessels completed detailed research logbooks which, together with pre-season surveys, made up the database for monitoring the fishery. A collaborative project with industry to review the impact of trawling on non-target species has been evaluating gear modifications to reduce bycatch and improve product quality. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: King prawns and tiger prawns fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: Major penaeids 1,611-2,183 tonnes (based on five-year range), comprising: King prawns 1,059-1,614 tonnes Tiger prawns 538-784 tonnes Endeavour prawns 3-32 tonnes

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

31

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries Catch current season (1999): Major penaeids 2,261 tonnes, comprising: King prawns 1,656 tonnes Tiger prawns 579 tonnes Endeavour prawns 25 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $34.3 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Major penaeids 1,611-2,183 tonnes (acceptable range) Individual species: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns

1,059-1,614 tonnes 538-784 tonnes 3-32 tonnes

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this managed fishery are the waters of the Indian Ocean between latitudes 23º34′S and 26º30′S and adjacent to Western Australia on the landward side of the 200 m isobath (Shark Bay Prawn Figure 1). Twenty-seven vessels are licensed to engage in prawn trawling in this fishery and all licences were active in the 1999 season, which opened on 10 March and closed on 25 October. A recruitment survey within the closed area south of the Carnarvon/Peron Line and Extended Nursery Area (ENA) was used to determine the extent of the ENA to be opened. The entire ENA was opened together with the Carnarvon/Peron Line on 16 April. The ENA was closed to fishing on 31 July to protect juvenile king prawns. Denham Sound was closed to trawling from 1 May and reopened on 31 July. The Torbay Line within Denham Sound opened on 31 July and remained open until the end of the season (25 October). Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total landings of major penaeids for the 1999 season were 2,261 tonnes, comprising 1,656 tonnes of king prawns, 579 tonnes of tiger prawns and 25 tonnes of endeavour prawns. There were also 150 tonnes of minor penaeids (coral prawns) landed. King prawn landings for 1999 were considered exceptional, exceeding the five-year average by 30% (Shark Bay Prawn Figure 2). This may be due to the strength of the Leeuwin Current, which was well above average resulting in warmer water temperatures, and/or continued high levels of effective fishing effort. Tiger prawn landings were higher than the five-year average by 11%, but within the expected catch range (538-784 tonnes) for this species. The average catch of tiger prawns has been 514 tonnes since the inception of the closure to early seasonal fishing inside the

32

Carnarvon/Peron line, whereas the average catch for the previous 10 years (1980-1989) had been 303 tonnes. Scallop landings by the prawn fleet totalled 450 tonnes (whole weight). All Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery vessels have Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery Class B licences. Fishing effort Effort recorded in the 1999 daily logbooks for the fleet showed nominal effort as 54,523 hours, which was a reduction of approximately 3,500 hours when compared with the last five years’ effort (58,026 mean hours). The effective fishing effort and the actual number of hours fished were reduced for 1999, due to a shorter season and longer non-trawl periods around the full moon, compared with the last five fishing seasons. Fishing effort is being monitored with the aim of reducing ineffective trawl hours whilst maintaining high catch levels, thus reducing overall effort to improve economic efficiency within the prawn trawl fleet. Catch rate Catch rates of 30.4 kg/hr for king prawns and 10.6 kg/hr for tiger prawns were recorded for the 1999 season. These represent an increase of 6% and 10% respectively over last year’s catch rates for these species and reflect, in part, improved effectiveness due to moon and season closures. Stock Assessment The king and tiger prawn stocks are fully exploited. For tiger prawns, this assessment is supported by the position of recent indices of recruitment and spawning stock with respect to the accepted spawning stock–recruitment relationship (SRR). Environmental factors are being incorporated to improve understanding of the SRR for the king prawn stock, and we continue to employ an examination of catch trends to support our evaluations. Indications are that at current effort levels, catches of these two species are likely to remain in the vicinity of 1,500 and 500 tonnes respectively Breeding Stock Levels Owing to the multi-species nature of this fishery, levels of exploitation of both king and tiger prawn stocks are being carefully monitored with the aim of achieving maximum sustainable catches simultaneously. Current stock and recruitment studies indicate that the king prawn stock remains at a point where recruitment is not affected by spawning stock levels. At the current level of exploitation, fluctuation in annual king prawn harvest is likely to result from effort levels and environmental variations, and not from abundance of spawning stock. In contrast, the recruitment levels of tiger prawns during the 1980s were affected by reduced spawning stock biomass. Management practices have been employed to increase the survival of these spawning stocks. A reduction in the fleet size from 35 to 27 vessels through the buy-back scheme introduced in 1990, together with the new area closures introduced in that year, appears to have benefited tiger

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Under current effort levels, and based on the recent range of catches, the projected king prawn catch is 1,059-1,614 tonnes, while the tiger prawn catch range, under normal environmental conditions, will be 538-784 tonnes. The Leeuwin Current index continues to be very high, which would indicate that the catch of king prawns will be maintained at the high end of the range during the 2000 season. Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, average ex-vessel prices were as follows: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns Coral prawns

$14.70/kg $15.70/kg $9.80/kg $4.17/kg

Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery targets non-schooling king and tiger prawns and saucer scallops under an exclusively night-fishing arrangement. Within the licensed fishing zone, the fleet operates over less than 10% of the area. Inside Shark Bay the fishery is, however, focused in the deeper areas of the central bay, north of Cape Peron and in the northern area of Denham Sound, for a period of about three months in the spring. Trawling occurs over approximately 40% of the habitat occupied by adult prawns, but less than 25% of the Shark Bay zone due to extensive permanent and temporary closures first introduced via the management plan in the 1960s and 1970s respectively (Shark Bay Prawn Figure 1). Bycatch loads are medium relative to other subtropical trawl fisheries. Bycatch composition is dominated by dead wire weed which breaks off the extensive shallow Wooramel seagrass bank annually over summer, and small fish species mostly not exploited by other sectors. Although protected species including whales, dolphins, dugongs, turtles and sea snakes are particularly abundant in Shark Bay generally, only sea snakes are regularly seen in the trawl catches in some regions and are generally returned to the sea alive. Turtles (loggerheads) are occasionally taken, but are able to be returned alive to the sea, due to the short trawl duration (approximately 60 minutes) required in Shark Bay to accommodate the high prawn catch rates and clogging effects of dead wire weed.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

prawn stocks. Tiger prawn catches have returned to the levels achieved in the 1970s, in the range of 400-700 tonnes. Changes in the efficiency of the fishing fleet must be monitored carefully to ensure that tiger prawn spawning stocks are not reduced below optimal levels.

the fishery, suggest that ecosystem impacts of the fishery are likely to be low. Despite this fact the industry, in collaboration with Fisheries WA Research, is developing and introducing bycatch reduction devices. These gear modifications minimise bycatch (by avoiding the landing of larger marine animals, such as sharks, rays and turtles, as well as small fish), which has benefits for both prawn quality and bycatch species. Overall the effect of the trawl fishery on the Shark Bay ecosystem over its 40-year history is assessed to be medium. General Comments The tiger prawn closure area introduced during the 1996 season was again implemented from 1 July to 5 October (Shark Bay Prawn Figure 1). North of Koks Island (which lies just off the northern tip of Bernier Island), 24-hour fishing was permitted from 10 March until 8.00 a.m. on 16 April, but no 24-hour fishing in fact took place. One new vessel (FV Takari) with increased fishing power replaced one older vessel (FV Cumberland) within the prawn fleet this season. Although this vessel change has increased effective effort in this fishery, there has been a reduction of overall effort by reducing the season and the trawl periods through longer moon closures (at times when trawling is less efficient). The reduction of trawl hours has also reduced effective effort hours. The Fisheries Research Division will continue to investigate the relationship between the strength of the Leeuwin Current (Fremantle sea level), water temperature and king prawn catches, as it shows promise of improving catch forecasts. In collaboration with the fishing industry, research has been continued into reducing bycatch through the use of bycatch reduction grids and other modifications to trawling gear. Spatial models of this fishery are also under development; these will assist researchers to advise managers and the fishing industry on the likely outcome of management changes on the status of stocks and on the value of the fishery. The recording of logbook data with global positioning system (GPS) positions in the last two years, and the implementation of the VMS in 2000, will enable a fine-tuning of closed areas, especially for the more vulnerable tiger prawn stocks.

As a result of the hard sand habitats and very low benthic characteristic fauna of the Shark Bay trawl grounds, the typical impact of the trawls is minimal. Similarly, although the exploitation rates of the retained target species are high, such species have very high natural mortality rates and make up a relatively low proportion of the ‘fish’ biomass on the trawl grounds. These factors, and the relatively low proportion of the habitat utilised by

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

33

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries 113

Bernier

Is

Tiger Spawning Closure Area

Dorre Is

25 Carnarvon/Peron Line

Lombardo Line

Extended Nursery Area Denham Line

Denham Sound Line

P ula nins Pe on er

Torba y

Permanent Nursery Area

26 Cape Bellefin

Permanent Nursery Area

113

SHARK BAY PRAWN FIGURE 1 Boundaries of the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery.

Shark Bay Annual Prawn Catch and Effort 80

2,500 King

Landings (tonnes)

Effort

60 50

1,500

40 1,000

30 20

500 10 0

0 62 64 66 68 70 72 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98

Year

SHARK BAY PRAWN FIGURE 2 Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery annual prawn catch and effort, 1962-1999.

34

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Effort (hours x 1,000)

70

Tiger

2,000

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas

Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery targets western king prawns (Penaeus latisulcatus), brown tiger prawns (Penaeus esculentus), endeavour prawns (Metapenaeus spp.) and banana prawns (Penaeus merguiensis). This fishery has an annual value of around $13 million depending on catch levels, species mix, prices and exchange rates. The 2000 fishing season commenced on 2 April and is proposed to close on 11 November. Within the main fishing period, various subsidiary area openings and closures occur aimed at maximising the long-term yield from the fishery, particularly of tiger prawns, and to protect breeding stocks as well as maximising the catch of larger prawns suitable for export. Since 1999 extended moon closures, rather than the standard three-day moon closures, have been introduced over the full moon period, aimed at increasing economic efficiency by shifting fishing effort away from the period where catch rates are reduced and a greater proportion of the catch is less marketable due to soft-shelled prawns. Management controls also include limited entry and gear restrictions as well as controls on vessel size and power. Cooperative management of the fishery is achieved through the provision of advice by the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Management Advisory Committee. The advice provided allows for the management arrangements to be better tailored for achieving the maximum economic return from the prawn resource as well as maintaining sustainability of the fishery and ensuring cost-effective management. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Sea patrols and radar watches were conducted during 1999/2000 using a radar-equipped patrol boat based at Exmouth, while aircraft were again used extensively. At-sea patrols were enhanced by the use of the patrol vessel Walcott. Operations focused on maintaining the integrity of nursery areas within the fishery. Tighter restrictions were agreed on by Fisheries WA and industry, due to relatively low catch rates in the first half of the 2000 season. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research activities focused on stock assessment and surveys to monitor both annual recruitment of tiger prawns and spawning stocks. All vessels completed detailed research logbooks which, together with survey data and factory records, provide the database for managing the fishery. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: King prawns adequate; tiger prawns increasing Previous catch projections for year 1999: Major penaeids 771-1,276 tonnes (based on five-year range), comprising: King prawns 370-508 tonnes Tiger prawns 205-682 tonnes Endeavour prawns 121-293 tonnes Catch current season (1999): Major penaeids 1,467 tonnes, comprising: King prawns 471 tonnes Tiger prawns 451 tonnes Endeavour prawns 543 tonnes Banana prawns 2 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $19.4 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Major penaeids 771-1,276 tonnes (acceptable range) Individual species: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns

370-508 tonnes 205-682 tonnes 121-293 tonnes

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery are ‘the waters of the Indian Ocean and Exmouth Gulf below high water mark lying south of a line starting at Point Murat and extending northeasterly to the southern extremity of South Muiron Island; thence generally northeasterly along the southeastern shore of that island to its easternmost extremity; thence northeasterly to the southern extremity of North Muiron Island; thence northeasterly and northerly along the southeastern and eastern shores of that island to its northern extremity; thence easterly to the northern extremity of Serrurier Island; thence generally southerly along the western shores of that island to its southern extremity; thence southeasterly to the southern extremity of Locker Island and then due south to the mainland’ (Exmouth Gulf Prawn Figure 1). There were 15 vessels licensed to operate in the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery during the 1999 season. Five vessels towed 4.5 fathom quad gear and 10 vessels towed 7.5 fathom twin gear. Headrope length has been adjusted to maintain previous effort levels but with fewer vessels.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

35

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

The 1999 season opened on 5 April, however the start of fishing was delayed several days due to Tropical Cyclone Vance. The fleet commenced fishing on 11 April in Area A (predominantly king prawn grounds), before moving to Area B (predominantly tiger prawn grounds) when it opened on 11 May. During the season, Area B was fished for several periods (11-28 May, 9-26 June, 8-13 July and 3-11 November). On each occasion when the catch rate of tiger prawns from Area B fell below the sustainable threshold level (16 kg/hr), the prawn fleet voluntarily ceased fishing in this area. Area C north of the A-line opened in July and remained open until the closure of the season. The season officially closed at 8.00 a.m. on 15 November. Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total annual prawn landings from Exmouth Gulf for the 1999 season were 1,467 tonnes, an increase of 46% on the five-year mean of 1,006 tonnes and up 39% on last year’s combined landings of 1,058 tonnes. Endeavour prawns (543 tonnes) were the predominant species taken, representing the highest endeavour catch on record (Exmouth Gulf Prawn Figure 2). The other major catches included 471 tonnes of king prawns, 451 tonnes of tiger prawns and 2 tonnes of banana prawns (Exmouth Gulf Prawn Figure 2). Fishing effort Total nominal effort for the 1999 season was 32,756 hours. There were 15 vessels licensed to operate in the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery during the 1999 season, with five vessels towing 4.5 fathom quad gear and 10 vessels towing 7.5 fathom twin gear. This allowed vessels to tow quad gear on a trial basis to obtain catch rate data so that there can be a comparison made between vessels towing quad gear and those with standard gear (twin 7.5 fathom nets). Although there were only 15 vessels in the fishery in 1999 and 1998, approximately the same total headrope length (net size) was retained as for the previous fleet of 16 vessels, giving a comparable effort of 34,940 hours. Catch rate Catch rates of king and tiger prawns compared favourably against seasons with similar total landings. The catch rate for king prawns was 13.5 kg/hr, for tiger prawns 12.9 kg/hr, and for endeavour prawns 15.6 kg/hr after adjusting for changes in gear configuration. Stock Assessment The king and tiger prawn stocks are fully exploited. For tiger prawns, this assessment is supported by the recent indices of recruitment and spawning stock with respect to the accepted SRR. The SRR and the environment are not examined in Exmouth Gulf for the king prawn stock; however, examination of catch trends continues to support evaluations. Indications are that at current effort levels and with favourable environmental conditions,

36

catches of these two species will remain within an acceptable historic range. The king prawn stock, which had normal levels of recruitment, was within the range normally predicted for this fishery. The tiger prawn spawning stock within Exmouth Gulf was rebuilt significantly during 1998. The 1999 season provided high total landings of tiger prawns with the highest spawning index recorded for the 1990s. On 22 March 1999, Tropical Cyclone Vance crossed Exmouth Gulf, resulting in gale force winds and heavy rainfall. This increased the migration of tiger and endeavour prawns into the trawl grounds and increased the level of suspended sediments in the gulf, creating high turbidity for several months after the cyclone. The shortterm effects of the cyclone appeared to be higher catch rates for all species, particularly endeavour prawns. Therefore higher total landings for the 1999 season were expected. The level of the tiger prawn stock was monitored during the period June-July 1999 using daily logbook data. Fishing ceased in the tiger prawn area before the abundance of tiger prawns was severely reduced. After closure to commercial fishing, surveys of spawning stock levels were conducted using two commercial vessels, and were found to be higher than in the previous year. The fishery in this area was re-opened for nine days with overall catch rates remaining above the threshold level. Although the impact of Cyclone Vance was positive for the 1999 season, cyclones have variable impacts, and the longer-term effects of the cyclone on tiger prawn stocks are unclear. Inshore areas (nursery habitats) of Exmouth Gulf were adversely affected by the cyclone and a survey carried out by CSIRO in November/December 1999 was unable to find significant quantities of juvenile tiger prawns. This may have a negative impact on the 2000 season. With the introduction of new fishing net configurations (quad gear), there has been an increase in fishing efficiency, but this increase has been compensated for by a reduction in the number of vessels and a decrease, of six fathoms, in the total net headrope length used by the entire fleet. These changes will be monitored carefully to ensure that tiger prawn spawning stocks are maintained above historically set targets. Breeding Stock Levels Continuing concerns about tiger prawn stocks necessitated the close monitoring of catch rates in Areas B and C during 1999. When average catch rates approached the threshold cutoff level of 16 kg/hr, these areas were closed to fishing to maintain sufficient spawning stock. This threshold catch rate is determined by historical levels that support good recruitment in the following season. Standardised spawning surveys were again conducted in August, September and October of 1999, and indicated catch rates for tiger prawns averaging 25.4 kg/hr. These were a large improvement on those of the 1997 and 1998 surveys, and well above the optimum of 14-16 kg/hr. Because the breeding stock levels were well above the threshold level, fleet fishing was allowed in Area B during

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Under current fishing effort levels, the catch projections for 2000 are that the range from the late 1990s of 771-1,276 tonnes for major penaeids should be achieved. Projections for individual species give the following ranges: king prawns 370-508 tonnes, tiger prawns 205-682 tonnes and endeavour prawns 121-293 tonnes. These figures are for normal environmental conditions and are generally based on a five-year average. The catch of tiger prawns may be below average due to the poor recruitment noted in the CSIRO survey, possibly as a result of the impact of Tropical Cyclone Vance on juvenile habitats. Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, average prices were as follows: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns Banana prawns Coral prawns

$14.70/kg $15.70/kg $9.80/kg $11.40/kg $4.17/kg

Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery mainly targets non-schooling king, tiger and endeavour prawns under a night-trawling arrangement, although some daylight-schooling banana prawns are taken when consecutive high rainfall years occur. The night-trawling effort is focused in the deeper central and north-western sectors of the gulf and occurs over about 40% of the licensed fishery area and about 30% of the target species habitat. However, within the fishery zone there is an extensive permanent trawl closure area in the shallow eastern and southern sectors, and a series of temporary closures to regulate the size and quantity of prawns taken. Approximately 40% of the prawn habitat is fished annually under a tight effort-control regime.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

November for nine days. A survey in December indicated a catch rate around 17 kg/hr ensuring adequate breeding stock for the season.

General Comments There were no major management changes introduced for the 1999 season. Opening and closure dates for the fishery and areas within the fishery were mainly influenced by moon phases. Area B was opened on 11 May. During this period the tiger prawn catch was monitored. By 9 June it was apparent that the tiger prawn stock required vigilant monitoring, which was achieved by daily monitoring of catch unloads and daily logbook records of tiger prawn catches. Fishing ceased on 13 July on the tiger prawn stocks, and Areas B and C (south of the A-Line) were officially closed. Fishing re-commenced in Area B on 3 November after spawning stock surveys indicated catch rates of tiger prawns above the threshold cutoff limit. Fishing continued for nine nights in this area. The Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery closed on 15 November. Gear configuration for some vessels was changed in 1999 with five vessels towing quad gear and ten vessels towing twin gear. The trials were conducted to allow the Exmouth Gulf fleet to have an efficiency gain by having fewer trawlers overall and lower fuel usage while maintaining the catching ability of the fleet. This is part of an approved trial to ascertain the most efficient net configuration, and will be reflected in amended management arrangements for the fishery, which may be based on unitisation. All vessels are expected to move to quad gear in 2000. Spatial models of this fishery are under development; these will assist researchers to advise managers and the fishing industry on the likely outcome of management changes on the status of stocks and on the value of the fishery.

Bycatch levels are relatively low for tropical trawl fisheries with few species of significance to other fishing sectors being taken. Historically the fishery impacted on sponge habitats, however the refocussing of the fishery into deeper waters since the early 1980s reduced this interaction. Owing to the predominantly mud and sand nature of the trawl grounds, the trawl gear has relatively little impact on the habitat. Similarly, while protected species including dugongs, turtles and sea snakes are found in the general area, only sea snakes and occasionally turtles are encountered in the trawl catches. Both species are typically returned to the sea alive. Although the prawn species are managed at relatively high levels of annual exploitation, the impact of the catch on local food chains is unlikely to be significant due to the high natural mortality and variable biomass levels resulting from naturally occurring cyclone events. Overall, the nature of this particular trawl fishery and the very tight controls on effort indicate that the overall environmental effect of the fishery is likely to be medium.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

37

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries 10'

20'

30'

40'

40'

Area A P1

Area C

50'

A-Line

22o S

P2

Area C 10'

Area B

20'

Permanent Nursery

30'

EXMOUTH GULF PRAWN FIGURE 1 Boundaries of the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery.

Exmouth Gulf Annual Prawn Catch and Effort

Landings (tonnes)

1,200 1,000

60 King Tiger Endeavour Banana Effort

50

40

800 30 600 20 400 10

200

0

0 63 65 67 69 71 73 75 77 79 81 83 85 87 89 91 93 95 97 99

Year

EXMOUTH GULF PRAWN FIGURE 2 Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery annual landings and effort, 1963-1999.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Effort (hours x 1,000)

1,400

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery is historically Western Australia’s most valuable scallop fishery, based on the take of southern saucer scallop (Amusium balloti). The catch is taken by vessels licensed to take only scallops (Class A licences) and vessels which also fish for prawns in the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery (Class B licences). Management of the fishery is aimed at catching scallops at the best size and condition for the market, thereby maximising the economic return, whilst maintaining breeding stock levels. Because the scallop stock commences spawning in mid-April (continuing through until the end of November) and meat condition declines as spawning continues, the opening date of the season is a compromise between breeding stock levels (measured by a pre-season survey of stock abundance) and the seasonal decline in meat condition associated with spawning. The 2000 scallop fishing season commenced on 3 May and will close on 4 November, the same day as the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery. Other management measures include limited entry, area closures, gear controls and vessel capacity and crew limits. Catch in this fishery varies widely depending on the strength of recruitment. Most of the catch is marketed to South-East Asia as frozen scallop meat (roe-off). A cooperative approach to the development of management strategies in this fishery is achieved through the Shark Bay Scallop Management Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from both the Shark Bay Scallop and Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fisheries. Bycatch reduction device trials commenced during the 2000 season. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Licence and gear inspections were carried out by Fisheries Officers from Carnarvon and Denham. The patrol vessel John Brockman, located at Denham, undertook numerous surveillance patrols of the fishery, incorporating vessel boardings and radar watches. The VMS requirements were introduced into the management plan, with Fisheries Officers in Carnarvon monitoring the trawlers’ movements. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research for monitoring the status of the scallop stock in Shark Bay is based on detailed research logbook records and factory receivals provided by industry. In addition, an annual research survey is carried out which, together with existing detailed biological knowledge, enables a catch forecast to be provided annually.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery

Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projection for year 1999: 1,050-2,200 tonnes (whole weight) Catch current season (1999): 1,700 tonnes (whole weight) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $7.4 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 1,500-2,750 tonnes (whole weight) Boundaries and Access The outer boundaries of the fishery encompass ‘the waters of the Indian Ocean and Shark Bay between 23º34´ south latitude and 26º30´ south latitude and adjacent to Western Australia on the landward side of the 200 m isobath, together with those waters of Shark Bay south of 26º30´ south latitude’. Within these general areas, scallop trawling only occurs in waters east of the outer islands of Shark Bay, in depths between 16 m and 40 m. In addition to the outer shelf region, a reef area eastward of the Naturaliste Channel, between the northern end of Dirk Hartog Island and the southern end of Bernier Island, is also closed to scallop (and prawn) trawling; and no scallop trawling is allowed east of a line extending northward from Cape Peron to the mainland. Fourteen vessels with Class A licences (scallop only) and 27 vessels with Class B licences (prawn and scallop) are endorsed to fish the waters of Shark Bay and Denham Sound. The boundaries for Class A vessels are the waters of Shark Bay and Denham Sound west of longitude 113º30′36″E and north of a line running due east from the northern extremity of Cape Bellefin to Peron Peninsula (see Shark Bay Prawn Figure 1). The 1999 scallop season commenced on 5 May. Owing to low catches, trawling for scallop by Class A vessels ceased during July, although the season officially closed on 25 October.

The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

39

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total scallop catch for this fishery was 1,700 tonnes whole weight. The Class A fleet caught 1,250 tonnes whole weight or 73% of the total catch, with the Class B fleet taking 450 tonnes whole weight (Shark Bay Scallop Figure 1). Fishing effort The total effort recorded by the Class A vessels in 1999 was 12,567 hours. Catch rate A total catch per unit effort of 99 kg/hr (whole weight) was recorded for the Class A fleet. Stock Assessment The status of the stock is determined from a pre-season (November-December) survey of recruitment and residual stock. This survey enables the start date of the fishery to be determined and allows management of the spawning stock. Recruitment of juveniles to the stock in 1998 was low to moderate, as measured using the data from the November scallop survey. This level of recruitment was reflected in the catch (1,700 tonnes whole weight) taken in 1999, which was in the middle of the range projected for the season.

(100 mm mesh), fish bycatch is minimal. Protected species, occasionally captured, are released alive due to the relatively short duration of trawls. Ecosystem impacts of saucer scallop fisheries are unlikely to be significant due to the typically high annual variation in abundance and the high natural mortality associated with short life cycles and death in the third year of life. Overall impact of the scallop fishery is assessed to be low. General Comments A relationship exists between sea level (at Fremantle) and the recruitment of scallops in Shark Bay. Generally, high sea levels (corresponding to strong Leeuwin Current) correlate with poor recruitment. The 1998 and 1999 recruitment was low due to poor environmental conditions. There is a need to examine the mechanisms that control recruitment success in greater detail in future projects in order to explain more of the inter-annual variation that occurs. The low catch for the 1999 season was expected; however, the recovery of this fishery to average catch levels (similar to those before the peak years of 1991-1993) is expected if environmental conditions (including the El Niño/Southern Oscillation index) become favourable.

Breeding Stock Levels The management arrangements for the fishery over past years have ensured that some spawning has occurred each year before the bulk of the stock has been taken. Annual variations in recruitment seem to be dominated by environmental factors which are believed to be correlated inversely with the strength of the Leeuwin Current. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The catch projection for the 2000 season is approximately 1,500-2,750 tonnes (whole weight), based on the November 1999 survey which indicated that recruitment was higher than last year but still low. Product Value for Year 1999 The wholesale price of scallops varies depending on the type of product (grade and meat condition) and the market forces operating at any one time. The average price for scallops was $4.35/kg (whole weight) or $21.75/kg (meat weight). Meat weight is 20% of whole weight. Environmental Risk Assessment The scallop fleet operates over a limited portion of the licensed fishing area, primarily in the oceanic centre section of Shark Bay. Fishing is concentrated on a small sector (estimated 30%) of the typically bare sand habitat associated with concentrations of this species. Significant spatial fishing closures reduce the operating area of the fishery and provide permanent protection to some part of the stock. Owing to the legislated design of the nets

40

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Shark Bay Annual Scallop Catch 16,000

Landings (tonnes whole weight )

Class A vessels

14,000

Class B vessels

12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 83

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

Year

SHARK BAY SCALLOP FIGURE 1 Annual scallop landings by fleet for the Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery, 1983-1999.

Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY This fishery operates in the waters of Shark Bay and takes a mixed catch of whiting, mullet, tailor and yellowfin bream. Entry to the fishery is limited, with restricted, family-only transfers and gear limitations. A unit in the fishery comprises one primary vessel, a maximum of three netting dinghies and a maximum team size of three fishers. Most of the catch is marketed through the fish processing factory in Denham which sets weekly delivery quotas and commercially acceptable size limits, which are above the legal minimum size for species concerned. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY During 1999/2000, inspections were undertaken at the Denham jetty and at sea using the patrol vessel John Brockman. Compliance with the management arrangements was good. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research monitoring of the status of the stocks taken in the fishery is undertaken annually using industry-based data coupled with the extensive scientific knowledge gained from previous research. Overall the fishery has remained relatively stable over the past decade with the main target species (whiting) being fished at sustainable levels. The fishery, although relatively small-scale, makes a significant contribution to the Denham economy.

Annual catch and effort data are extracted and accumulated from statutory monthly CAESS returns provided by commercial fishers. Data within the CAESS database are continually maintained, both by addition of new statistical returns and by modification of records to correct errors of data entry or interpretation that are detected during ongoing analysis and data quality control by the research section responsible for studying each fishery. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Only for whiting (Sillago schomburgkii) Exploitation status: S. schomburgkii fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate for S. schomburgkii Previous catch projections for year 1999: Whiting 95-140 tonnes Catch current season (1999): All species 262.5 tonnes Whiting 114.5 tonnes

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

41

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: All finfish $830,000 Whiting $442,000 Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Whiting 95-140 tonnes Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘the waters of Shark Bay from high water mark lying (a) south of a line drawn from the northernmost point of Cape Inscription on Dirk Hartog Island due east to the mainland; and (b) east of a line drawn from Surf Point on Dirk Hartog Island to Steep Point on the mainland; but excluding the waters of Shark Bay due south of a line drawn west of the highwater mark of Kopke Point on the mainland to the highwater mark on the mainland south of Petit Point on Peron Peninsula’. At April 1999, nine unit-fishing boat licence holders were registered in the beach seine and mesh net fishery and were based at Denham. The fishery is also subject to net length and mesh size controls. The legislation indicates that: •

the mesh not be less than 48 mm for taking whiting;



the mesh not be less than 86 mm for taking mullet; and



the mesh not be greater than 38 mm and not less than 26 mm throughout and the net shall not be more than 200 m in total length and have a pocket no more than 30 m in length when used to take garfish.

Annual Production Main fishing method Beach seine and haul net. Landings Whiting is the main target species in Shark Bay, although the catch consists of two species of whiting, sea mullet, tailor, bream and some snapper. Thus assessments of the fishery have been based historically on the total whiting catch and effort data (Shark Bay Beach Seine Figure 1). Landings during 1999 were 114.5 tonnes of whiting. This was very similar to the 1998 catch and only slightly lower than the 1997 catch of 122 tonnes, which was the highest reported between 1989 and the present. The 1999 total catch for the Shark Bay beach seine and haul net fishery of 262.5 tonnes has declined from the 1997 catch of 325 tonnes which was at the highest level reported during the past 10 years (Shark Bay Beach Seine Figure 2). Fishing effort During 1999, there was an average of seven boats fishing per month, expending 1,170 days of fishing effort (Shark Bay Beach Seine Figure 2). The overall trend in fishing effort in the Shark Bay beach seine and haul net fishery has been a decline in the number of boat days fished during the 1990s. Catch rate CPUE (based on nominal effort) for the whiting fishery has increased during the past 10 years, with only minor

42

fluctuations. The present CPUE is 97.8 kg/boat day for the whiting fishery, which is a slight decrease from the peak value in 1998 (Shark Bay Beach Seine Figure 1). The CPUE for the Shark Bay beach seine and haul net fishery increased steadily between 1989 and 1995. Since 1997, there has been a gradual decline in the CPUE. The reported CPUE for 1999 was 224 kg (all species)/boat day. Stock Assessment A preliminary yield-per-recruit stock assessment was conducted for the whiting (Sillago schomburgkii) fishery in Shark Bay. Biological data were incorporated from research by Lenanton (1970). A more detailed evaluation of the current status of the fishery cannot be achieved with the data currently available, however the increasing trend in CPUE resulting from the reduced effort levels during the early 1990s indicates that the stock is being fished within its productive capacity. Breeding Stock Levels As the mean size at first maturity for Shark Bay whiting is similar to the legal minimum length that applied up until 1988, and the minimum legal mesh size is the 50% selection point of 48 mm mesh net, virtually all of the catch is mature fish. Consistent catches of whiting over recent years provide a good indication that the breeding stock is being maintained. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The acceptable catch range under the current management regime is 95-140 tonnes of Shark Bay whiting. The projection is derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of past annual catches to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, changes to the management arrangements may need to be considered. Product Value for Year 1999 The estimated value of the total catch for 1999 is $830,000. The estimated value of the whiting catch is $442,000. Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery operates throughout its licence area but with a very low level of effort as its specifically targets schools of fish. As a result of the gear type used and the method of operation, there are no bycatch issues or physical habitat impacts associated with this fishery. Overall the fishery has minimal effect on the Shark Bay ecosystem. General Comments Historically, this status report has detailed the commercial Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net Managed Fishery catch and effort statistics. While the fishery does not have a modern management plan, it is managed under a limited entry notice in the legislation. At present, Shark Bay is an increasingly popular recreational fishing destination. Shark Bay has been designated a World Heritage Area, with all but a small portion also designated as a marine park.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Catch (tonnes)

Shark Bay Whiting 3,000

200

2,500

2,000 120 1,500 80 1,000

Effort (boat days)

CPUE (kg/boat day)

160

Catch - tonnes live weight

40

500

CPUE - kg/boat day Effort - boat days

0

0 89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

SHARK BAY BEACH SEINE FIGURE 1 The annual catch (tonnes), effort (boat days) and catch per unit effort (CPUE, kg/boat day) for whiting from Shark Bay over the period 1989-1999.

Catch (tonnes)

Shark Bay Annual Total Catch 1,800

350

CPUE (kg/boat day)

1,400 250

1,200

200

1,000

150

800 600

100 50

Catch - tonnes live weight

400

CPUE - kg/boat day

200

Effort (days fished)

1,600

300

Effort - days fished

0

0 89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

SHARK BAY BEACH SEINE FIGURE 2 The annual catch (tonnes), effort (boat days) and catch per unit effort (CPUE, kg/boat day) for the total finfish fishery of Shark Bay over the period 1989-1999.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

43

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Commercial Fisheries Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery has been in operation since the late 1980s, and has been managed using a mix of input and output controls. During 1998/99, Fisheries WA management and legal staff developed a new draft management plan, based on the recommendations of a working group formed to review management of the fishery. During 1999/2000 further work on the proposed new management arrangements for the fishery was progressed with a number of consultative meetings held in Carnarvon. It is anticipated that the new plan will simplify the current complex management and administrative arrangements while providing more flexibility for both industry and Fisheries WA. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Fisheries Officers from Denham and Carnarvon carried out licence and quota inspections and monitored pink snapper landings over the peak season to ensure the integrity of the quota system was maintained. RESEARCH SUMMARY Detailed research on the offshore snapper fishery was undertaken during the 1980s and provides the scientific knowledge base for management. A new FRDC-funded project commencing in July 2000 will utilise data collected since the 1980s to assess the potential for increased yields from this oceanic snapper stock. Until the results of this research become available, monitoring of the fishery will continue to be undertaken annually using CAESS data. This monitoring data is used to provided the status report. Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by M. Moran Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: The Shark Bay snapper stock is close to fully exploited

Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 450-550 tonnes pink snapper Recreational component (1999): 25-30 tonnes (estimated) combined recreational and charter boats Boundaries and Access The Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery operates in the waters of the Indian Ocean between latitudes 23º34′S and 26º30′S and in the waters of Shark Bay north of Cape Inscription. There are 24 licences, but some boats have several managed fishery licences aggregated on one fishing boat licence. Catches of snapper in the peak fishing season are subject to individual quotas, while gear controls apply in the off-peak season. The peak season catch in 1999 was 308 tonnes and the off-peak catch was 142 tonnes. Annual Production Main fishing method Mechanised handline. Landings Catches of snapper from the ocean stock in 1997 and 1998 were slightly higher than normal due to improving market capacity as markets other than Japan were developed. The pink snapper catch in 1999 was 450 tonnes. The reduced catch, compared with previous years, was due to a reduction in fishing effort rather than a lack of snapper since the catch rate was higher than in recent years. The snapper fishery also took 146 tonnes of other finfish species in 1999. Fishing effort The effectiveness of fishing effort varies markedly on a seasonal basis. Fishing effort in 1999 was 712 standard June-July line boat days compared with 984 days in 1998. Catch rate Catch per line boat day of the managed fishery licensed boats for the peak months (June-July) was 632 kg in 1999 (Shark Bay Snapper Figure 1), slightly higher than the previous two years but around the average for the 1990s.

Previous catch projections for year 1999: 550 tonnes with 1,000 standard boat days effort

Stock Assessment The pink snapper stock is close to fully exploited. A stock production model assessment in the mid-1980s produced an estimated maximum sustainable yield of around 600 tonnes, whereas the average annual commercial catch for the 1990s was 503 tonnes. The new FRDC-funded project commencing in July 2000 will assess the potential for increased yields from this oceanic pink snapper stock.

Catch current season (1999): Pink snapper 450 tonnes Other finfish 146 tonnes

Breeding Stock Levels Snapper breeding stock level for the ocean stock is not measured directly; however, there are no indications of

Breeding stock levels: Adequate

44

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: Pink snapper $2.06 million Other species $0.6 million

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) In 2000 snapper catches are likely to be around 450-550 tonnes. Effort is likely to be around 1,000 standard June-July line boat days. Recreational Component For the genetically distinct inner bay stocks (not covered by this status report), most of the catch is recreational and is now subject to separate management arrangements. Research for management of these stocks is reported on pages 120-121. The Gascoyne recreational fishing survey, conducted between April 1998 and March 1999, has estimated the recreational catch from the offshore stock at 14 tonnes, approximately 2.5% of the commercial catch. In addition, there is an unquantified recreational catch from charter boats, estimated to be 10-20 tonnes.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

insufficient breeding stock from the catch rates, locations fished or size frequency. This is in contrast to the inner Shark Bay stocks, where the breeding stock level has been seriously impacted by recreational fishing.

Product Value for Year 1999 Japanese demand for snapper has been declining in recent years and efforts have been made to explore other overseas and Eastern States markets. The value of the snapper catch in 1999 at approximately $4.60/kg is estimated at $2.06 million with other species valued at $0.6 million. Environmental Risk Assessment The nature of the fishery, targeting aggregations of adult snapper using lines, indicates that the fishery has little environmental impact. Similarly, food chain effects are negligible because the quota system restricts catches to a small percentage of the total biomass of snapper. Overall, the ecological impact of the fishery is minimal. General Comments Biologically, the stock exploited by the Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery is in good condition and is being successfully maintained by the combination of peak season quotas and off-season gear controls. Simplification of the complex management arrangements under an amended management plan is due to occur in 2000/01. The combined catch of the commercial fishers and the expanding recreational/charter fishery remained well within the set total allowable catch.

CPUE (kg/standard boat day)

800

600

400

200

0 1988

1990

1992

1994

1996

1998

Year

SHARK BAY SNAPPER FIGURE 1 Catch per unit effort by year from 1988 to 1999 for the Shark Bay Snapper Managed Fishery. Units are kg whole weight of pink snapper/standard boat day. As catchability varies markedly throughout the year, peaking in June and July, the CPUE for line fishing in June and July is used as the index of abundance.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

45

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries North Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview Commercial fisheries in this bioregion are focused on the tropical and deep-water snappers in offshore waters and on barramundi, threadfin salmon and shark in more coastal areas. Most of the State’s smaller prawn trawl fisheries are also based in this region. Since the early 1990s the majority of demersal finfish taken off the North-West Shelf have come from the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery, and 1999 was no exception with over 2,200 tonnes of demersal scalefish being taken by the fishery. Changes to management arrangements included new time access arrangements for the Pilbara Trap Fishery to deal with the issue of latent effort. Management arrangements for the Pilbara Line Fishery are still under review. A new management plan for the Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery is expected once a number of appeals related to access to the fishery have been resolved. Interim management arrangements have recently been introduced for the Spanish mackerel fishery, which is mostly focused in this region.

Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery targets western king prawns (Penaeus latisulcatus), brown tiger prawns (Penaeus esculentus), endeavour prawns (Metapenaeus spp.) and banana prawns (Penaeus merguiensis). The 2000 fishing season commenced on 1 March and will end on 15 November. Within the main fishing period, a number of fishing area openings and closures allow access to tiger prawn and banana prawn stocks at appropriate times. Other management controls include limited entry, gear restrictions and controls on replacement boat size. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Karratha Fisheries Officers conducted licence and gear inspections aboard vessels alongside the wharf in Beadon Creek, Onslow. Sea patrols were also conducted by agency patrol vessels assisted by Karratha-based Fisheries Officers who monitored closed waters and carried out both gear and licence inspections. A number of patrols were carried out in the company of officers from the Department of Transport under the Joint Servicing Agreement.

RESEARCH SUMMARY Research for managing this small fishery involves stock monitoring and assessment utilising the CAESS monthly return data provided by industry, as well as information from interviews with vessel skippers. Annual meetings are held with vessel operators to consider the status of the stocks and recommend changes to fishing operations. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: 61-132 tonnes Catch current season (1999): Major penaeids 93 tonnes, comprising: King prawns 38 tonnes Tiger prawns 26 tonnes Endeavour prawns 20 tonnes Banana prawns 9 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $1.4 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 61-132 tonnes Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all Western Australian waters of the Indian Ocean below high water mark lying west of 116º45´ east longitude and east of a line commencing at the high water mark on the mainland due south of the southernmost extremity of Locker Island drawn due north to the high water mark at that extremity; thence northwesterly to the high water mark at the southernmost extremity of Serrurier Island; thence northerly along the high water mark of that island on its western shore to its northernmost point; thence due north’ (Onslow Prawn Figure 1). The fishery is then divided into three fishing zones with associated nursery areas as follows: Area 1, incorporating Ashburton Nursery; Area 2, incorporating Coolgra Point Nursery; and Area 3, incorporating Fortescue Nursery.

No major offences were detected within the fishery.

46

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Fortescue Nursery Ashburton and Coolgra Point Nurseries

5 April-15 November 5 April-15 November 1 March-15 November 1 May-15 November 1 May-November

Different licence classes apply to this fishery allowing vessels to trawl in specific zones. These classes are listed below (figures in brackets indicate 1999 endorsements): Class A Class B Class C Class D

Areas 1, 2 and 3 (4 vessels) Areas 2 and 3 (3 vessels) Area 2 (12 Exmouth Gulf vessels) Area 3 (12 Nickol Bay vessels)

Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total landings for the 1999 season were 93 tonnes, including 38 tonnes of king prawns, 26 tonnes of tiger prawns, 20 tonnes of endeavour prawns and 9 tonnes of banana prawns (Onslow Prawn Figure 2). Catches of all prawn species increased by comparison with catches of the previous season. Fishing effort Not assessed. Catch rate Not assessed. Stock Assessment The catches during 1999 were around the average for king prawns, at the lower end of the range for tiger prawns, and in the higher end of the range for endeavour prawns. Banana prawn catches remained lower than the five-year average (27.6 tonnes) at 9 tonnes, despite high recorded rainfall in the area over summer. Low rainfall commonly correlates with low recruitment for this species. Further work is under way to assess the relationship between summer rainfall and catches from Area 1 for this species. Breeding Stock Levels Not assessed. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Under current effort levels, the acceptable range of catches for the 2000 season based on the catches of the late 1990s are: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns Banana prawns

Bioregion - North Coast

During the 1999 season the areas were open during the following periods:

Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, average prices for 1999 were as follows: King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns Banana prawns Coral prawns

$14.70/kg $15.70/kg $9.80/kg $11.40/kg $4.17/kg

Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery targets primarily king and tiger prawns in most years and, occasionally, schooling banana prawns in the infrequent high rainfall periods. Within the extensive licensed fishing zone, relatively few discrete areas (less than 5% of the zone) offshore from nursery areas are fished. Consistent effort occurs mostly between the Ashburton River and Onslow for banana and king prawns, and in the Mangrove Passage area for tiger prawns. Trawling occurs over a very small proportion (< 5%) of the king prawn habitat, as densities in most areas are too low for economically viable trawling. In contrast, fishing covers a high proportion (50%) of the discrete banana prawn habitats associated with river estuaries. Bycatch from the fishery is typical of tropical trawl fisheries, however effort levels and spatial coverage are too low to impact bycatch species. Similarly, the impacts on target species and from discards are unlikely to have any significant ecological consequences. The fishery is restricted to sand and mud bottoms, where trawling has minimal physical impact. Overall the ecological impact from this fishery is assessed to be low. General Comments The monitoring of stocks in this fishery is undertaken using data from CAESS. The catches taken are, however, from a number of separate nursery areas and are highly variable from year to year. This is particularly the case for the rainfall-dependent banana prawn, which was the dominant species caught during 1997 yet provided the smallest component of the catch during 1999. Catches of tiger prawns from this fishery are also quite variable. It is likely that severe cyclonic activity impacts negatively on tiger prawns in some years, and moreover, the effect varies depending on whether juvenile prawns are still in vulnerable, shallow nursery areas at the time. Severe cyclones can impact directly on endeavour prawns. The king prawn catch has remained stable, indicating that environmental effects such as cyclonic activity (producing heavy rainfall) have little effect on the abundance of the king prawn stock. However, fishers report that there can be an indirect, short-term impact on the distribution of king prawns when heavy rainfall inland and subsequent river flooding appear to disperse the stock, affecting overall catches. At times, debris from flooding is reported to restrict fishing activities and hence landings for the year.

19-61 tonnes 5-39 tonnes 5-20 tonnes 2-91 tonnes

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

47

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries

116˚

Ons

20˚

118˚

120˚

low

20˚

3 Port Hedland Dampier

2 1 Onslow

22˚

22˚ 116˚

118˚

120˚

ONSLOW PRAWN FIGURE 1 Boundaries of the Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery.

Onslow Annual Prawn Catch 100 King

90

Tiger

Landings (tonnes)

80

Endeavour Banana

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

Year

ONSLOW PRAWN FIGURE 2 Annual landings for the Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery, 1990-1999.

48

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

98

99

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery targets banana prawns (Penaeus merguiensis), western king prawns (Penaeus latisulcatus), brown tiger prawns (Penaeus esculentus) and endeavour prawns (Metapenaeus spp.), with most prawn fishing activity occurring in inshore areas. A number of the Nickol Bay prawn trawlers also operate in the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery and the Onslow Prawn Managed Fishery. Management controls for the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery are based on limited entry, seasonal and area closures, gear controls and restrictions on boat size. In 2000, the fishing season opened on 1 May and will close on 15 November. Within the main fishing period, fishing area openings and closures allow access to tiger and banana prawn stocks at appropriate times. Catches in these fishing areas are closely monitored to ensure the prevention of growth and recruitment over-fishing. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Karratha Fisheries Officers conducted frequent licence and gear inspections as well as a number of in-port freezer inspections aboard vessels at Point Samson and Dampier. Sea patrols were also conducted aboard agency patrol vessels by Fisheries Officers who carried out catch, gear and licence inspections. A number of patrols, including those aboard agency patrol vessels, were carried out in the company of officers from the Department of Transport under the Joint Servicing Agreement. No major offences were detected within the fishery. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research for the management of this small fishery involves stock monitoring and assessment utilising monthly return data provided by industry, information from vessel skippers, and rainfall records. Stock assessment of the banana prawn stocks involves updating the catch–rainfall relationship. Research outcomes are reviewed at annual industry meetings which consider the status of the stocks and recommend changes to fishing operations. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Bioregion - North Coast

Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery

Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: 89-222 tonnes Catch current season (1999): Major penaeids 259 tonnes, comprising: Banana prawns 171 tonnes King prawns 69 tonnes Tiger prawns 13 tonnes Endeavour prawns 5 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $3.3 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Major penaeids 323-600 tonnes, comprising: Banana prawns 300-500 tonnes* King prawns 21-69 tonnes Tiger prawns 1-26 tonnes Endeavour prawns 1-5 tonnes (*using rainfall-catch relationship; others based on five-year range)

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all the waters of the Indian Ocean and Nickol Bay between 116º45´ east longitude and 120º east longitude on the landward side of the 200 m isobath’ (Nickol Bay Prawn Figure 1). During the 1999 season the areas were open during the following periods: Nickol Bay Nursery Extended Nickol Bay Nursery Depuch Nursery De Grey Nursery Onslow Area 3

1 May-1 August 1 May-15 November 1 May-1 August 1 May-15 November 1 March-15 November

There were 14 vessels licensed to trawl for prawns in Nickol Bay during 1999. Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

49

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries Landings The banana prawn landings of 171 tonnes for the 1999 season (Nickol Bay Prawn Figure 2) fell within the range of 150-250 tonnes projected on the basis of the high rainfall in the 1998/99 summer period.

trawl areas in Nickol Bay and off Depuch Island. The small number of full-time vessels and limited prawn nursery areas result in the fishery being focused on a few small areas making up less than 5% of the coastal habitat within the fishery.

Other prawn landings for the 1999 season were 88 tonnes, comprising 69 tonnes of king prawns, 13 tonnes of tiger prawns and 5 tonnes of endeavour prawns (Nickol Bay Prawn Figure 2).

Bycatch is minimal due to the method of targeted fishing. Habitat types on the trawl areas associated with banana and king prawns are mud and sand respectively, and not impacted significantly by trawl gear. Owing to the highly variable nature of banana prawn recruitment, positively related to cyclonic rainfall, any food chain impacts from fishing are likely to be negligible despite the relatively high annual exploitation rate. Overall environmental impact is considered to be low.

Fishing effort Not assessed. Catch rate Not assessed. Stock Assessment The relationship between banana prawn catch and rainfall is assessed annually. Other prawn stocks are insufficient to carry out a formal stock assessment. A relationship exists between the summer rainfall (December-March) and the catch of banana prawns in the same year (Nickol Bay Prawn Figure 3). Adjusting the forecast of banana prawns for the 572 mm of rain during the 1999/2000 summer period provides a catch projection of between 300 and 500 tonnes. Breeding Stock Levels Not assessed. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) With the current effort levels, the projections for the range of prawn catches for the 2000 season, based on the fiveyear range, are as follows: Banana prawns King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns

300-500 tonnes 21-69 tonnes 1-26 tonnes 1-5 tonnes

The total catch projection is between 323 and 600 tonnes. Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the grade and quality of the product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, average prices were as follows: Banana prawns King prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns Coral prawns

$11.40/kg $14.70/kg $15.70/kg $9.80/kg $4.17/kg

Environmental Risk Assessment The Nickol Bay prawn fishery operates predominantly on schooling banana prawns, which results in minimal bycatch and relatively low effort compared with other trawl fisheries. Only part of the fleet focuses on king and tiger prawns in a series of small, more offshore trawl grounds scattered along the coast. Closures to protect juvenile banana prawns operate on the main banana prawn

50

General Comments Minimum catch monitoring is completed for minor fisheries such as the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery. The majority of vessels in the prawn fleet of Nickol Bay are also licensed to fish finfish stocks offshore (the Pilbara Fish Trawl Fishery). Some also fish for prawns in the Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery. As such, the fishing effort in the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery is dependent on management measures taken elsewhere, and on the catch rates available in these other fisheries. Fishing for finfish has encouraged the construction of larger vessels with greater fishing power than would otherwise have been supported by fishing prawns alone. In recent years, however, concern about over-exploitation in the Pilbara Fish Trawl Fishery has led to time quotas and other restrictions. The impact of these restrictions and of falling finfish catches have forced some of the fishing effort back into the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery. Banana prawns usually dominate the catch from Nickol Bay. The catch of this species is positively correlated with rainfall in the months December to March. The relatively high catches of banana prawns in 1999 were anticipated because of high rainfall (394 mm) during this critical period. With 572 mm of rainfall recorded for this same period during 1999/2000 (the highest since data for the relationship have been examined), much improved landings of banana prawns are forecast. The king prawn catch has remained stable as environmental elements such as cyclonic activity (often producing heavy rainfall) have had little impact on the abundance and distribution of the king prawn stock. There are designated areas in Nickol Bay designed to protect the harvest of under-sized banana prawns. During 1999 these areas were opened for fishing on 1 March but immediately closed when fishing revealed that the prawns were still too small on average (large prawns are more valuable). The designated areas were reopened on 1 May when the prawns had reached a larger, more valuable size.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

118˚

120˚

De Grey Nursery

y ol Ba Nick

Nickol Bay Nursery

O ns

20˚

low

3

Extended Nickol Bay Nursery

Dampier

Bioregion - North Coast

116˚

20˚

Port Hedland

Depuch Nursery

Onslow

22˚

22˚ 116˚

118˚

120˚

NICKOL BAY PRAWN FIGURE 1 Boundaries of the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery.

Nickol Bay Annual Prawn Catch 250 King Tiger Endeavour Banana

Landings (tonnes)

200

150

100

50

0 90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

Year

NICKOL BAY PRAWN FIGURE 2 Annual landings for the Nickol Bay Prawn Managed Fishery, 1990-1999.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

51

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries Banana Prawn Catch vs Rainfall - Nickol Bay 600

500 67

2000

400

y = 0.7134x + 3.9546 R2 = 0.5218

572 mm

Landings (tonnes)

76

412 t

300 73 90

85 75 89

200

83

100

70

96 80

88 93 72 82 68 92 98 69 79 91 86 66

0 0

77 78

100

94 84

200

97 74 71 87 95

99

81

300

400

500

600

Rainfall (mm Dec-Mar)

NICKOL BAY PRAWN FIGURE 3 Relationship between banana prawn landings and rainfall between December and March for years 1966-1999.

Broome Prawn Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Broome Prawn Managed Fishery is a small trawl fishery off Broome, which generally coincides with the seasonal closures for the Northern and Kimberley prawn fisheries. The dominant species caught are western king prawns (Penaeus latisulcatus) and coral prawns (a combined category of small penaeid species). On 1 March 1999, the management plan for the Broome Prawn Managed Fishery came into effect. Essentially, the management plan encompasses the previous management arrangements for the interim managed fishery, with the addition of a provision for the Executive Director to direct licensees to install bycatch reduction devices if required, as well as equipment to allow vessels to be tracked by the VMS. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Fisheries Officers based in Broome control the operation of this fishery each year. Gear and licence checks as well as radar surveillance for boundary compliance were carried out during the season. No offences were detected within this fishery. It is anticipated that this fishery will move to the use of VMS as a management tool for the 2000/01 season.

RESEARCH SUMMARY Research data for managing this small seasonal fishery is provided by detailed research logbooks completed by all vessels. This data is used for stock assessment and monitoring which is discussed with industry at annual review meetings. The relationship between catch and moon phase was investigated during 1997/98, which has resulted in some ongoing modifications to the management arrangements. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. Broome Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: King prawns 36-164 tonnes (acceptable range)

This fishery continues to be generally self-regulating.

52

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $1.3 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): King prawns 36-164 tonnes (acceptable range) Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all waters of the Indian Ocean off the north-west coast of Western Australia east of 120º east longitude and west of 123º45´ east longitude on the landward side of the 200 m isobath’. Within this schedule, the permitted fishing area is ‘all Western Australian waters bounded by a line commencing at the intersection of 17º20´ south latitude and 121º50´ east longitude; thence east to the intersection of 17º50´ south latitude and 121º55´ east longitude; thence northeast to the intersection of 17º40´ south latitude and 122º east longitude; thence north to the intersection of 17º30´ south latitude and 122º east longitude; thence north-west to the intersection of 17º20´ south latitude and 122º55´ east longitude; thence west to the commencement point’. The permitted fishing area was opened for the 1999 fishing season on 10 June and closed on 10 August. Five Western Australian-based Northern Prawn Fishery (Gulf of Carpentaria) vessels are licensed to operate in this fishery. Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total landings for the 1999 season were 123 tonnes, including 73 tonnes of king prawns and 50 tonnes of coral prawns (Broome Prawn Figure 1). King prawn landings for 1999 were 11% lower than the five-year average (82 tonnes). Fishing effort Nominal effort recorded in the daily research logbooks for the fleet was 2,513 hours. Catch rate A catch rate of 29 kg/hr for king prawns and 20.2 kg/hr for coral prawns was recorded. Stock Assessment Catches for king prawns in the Broome Prawn Managed Fishery have fluctuated between 36 and 173 tonnes since 1991. Before that time this fishing area was used on a casual basis by vessels transiting to the Northern Prawn Fishery (NPF) in the Gulf of Carpentaria. The success of

Bioregion - North Coast

Catch current season (1999): Penaeids 123 tonnes, comprising: King prawns 73 tonnes Coral prawns 50 tonnes

this fishery depends on how the limited fishing season (approximately eight weeks) coincides with the king prawn recruitment and catchability, which is influenced by the lunar period. Historically, the timing of this fishery has been set by calendar to coincide with the NPF mid-season closure (six weeks) rather than the appropriate lunar period. Consequently, the timing of the fishing period has not always been optimal for exploiting the king prawn stock. Based on advice from the Fisheries Research Division, the timing for the opening and closing of the season is now adjusted annually to match the lunar-phase-driven recruitment and catchability patterns. This achieves the best catch rates available during the fishing period while keeping the season generally in line with the NPF midseason closure. The catch of king prawns for the 1999 season was below average, producing 73 tonnes for 52 days fished. The catch rates of king prawns for both June (30.3 kg/hr) and July (28 kg/hr) were lower than for the corresponding periods in 1998. A Delury depletion analysis was carried out on the 1999 logbook data to quantify the standing stock of king prawns in the Broome fishery. From this analysis, a standing stock of approximately 195 tonnes was estimated. This indicates that approximately 37% of the stock was taken by fishing, utilising the 2,513 hours of fishing recorded in this fishery. It is estimated that, at the rate of depletion observed, it would theoretically take approximately 6,800 hours to catch the whole stock (reducing the catch rate to zero). The approach of using a depletion analysis has great potential to examine variation in recruitment strength from year to year because the standing stock estimate for each year will reflect this. When sufficient years of data have been assembled, it will be possible to relate the proportion of the king prawn stock unfished at the end of each fishing season (a measure of residual spawning stock) and the recruitment of king prawns the subsequent year. Breeding Stock Levels Depletion analysis indicated that approximately 63% of the king prawn stock was left when fishing stopped. This stock could continue to breed. In addition, some females may have spawned prior to capture. These data indicate that the king prawn stock is well above the level of 20% of breeding stock biomass generally needed to sustain the fishery. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Under current effort levels, the acceptable range for the king prawn catch projection for the 2000 season is 36-164 tonnes, based on the recent range of catches. Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, prices for 1999 were as follows: King prawns Coral prawns

$14.70/kg $4.17/kg

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

53

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery targets non-schooling king prawns with a secondary catch of coral prawns (common name due to colour, not habitat association) in relatively deep water. The fishery is permitted to operate only in a discrete area offshore, north-west of Roebuck Bay which is the nursery area for this king prawn stock. The gazetted fishing area was surveyed by the Fisheries Research Division and industry divers prior to establishment of the management plan to ensure minimal impact on the adjacent pearl fishery habitat. Owing to the very short duration of the fishery, the limited number of vessels, the depth and the habitat type, this fishery is assumed to have a minimal impact on the region’s ecosystem.

General Comments This fishery has benefited from advice from Fisheries WA relating to the timing of the fishing season. The catch of king prawns is affected by the lunar phase, with lower catches occurring around the full moon. By bringing the timing of the season in line with lunar period, fishing efficiency has been maximised. This fishery is valuable, despite its short season, because it allows approximately eight to nine weeks of fishing by five vessels in a way that complements fishing activity in the NPF, and in other fisheries in Western Australia. The depletion method applied has provided a good insight into stock levels. It has the advantage of being a very direct assessment method, with the potential to carefully control exploitation rates. It is intended to continue its use as the primary assessment method for this fishery.

Broome Annual Prawn Catch 180 160

King Coral

Landings (tonnes)

140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

Year

BROOME PRAWN FIGURE 1 Annual landings for the Broome Prawn Managed Fishery, 1990-1999.

54

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

98

99

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The management controls for the Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery are based on limited entry, seasonal closures, gear controls and restrictions on boat replacements. The Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery operates off the north of the State adjacent to the Northern Prawn Fishery (NPF). Opening and closing dates are aligned with those of the NPF. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance activities for this fishery are limited to inspections of fishing vessels entering the port of Broome en route to the fishing grounds, and opportunistic inspections during sea patrols targeting other fisheries. The majority of vessels operating within this fishery are serviced from Darwin, and the distance between the ports of Darwin and Broome makes at-sea inspections of vessels operating on these grounds difficult and expensive. The licensing of crew is also an issue for vessels accessing the fishery from Darwin, as there is limited opportunity for them to purchase licences prior to entering the fishery. The increased presence of the joint Fisheries WA and Department of Transport patrol vessel Walcott in the northern waters has increased the opportunities for at-sea inspections. However, compliance resources available for this fishery are limited, and these inspections will continue to be conducted on an ad hoc basis as part of patrols dedicated to other fisheries. There were eight warning notices and one infringement notice issued for minor licensing offences within this fishery for 1999/2000. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research data for monitoring this fishery are provided by Western Australian fishers’ monthly returns, and by research logbooks collected by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) for NPF vessels licensed to operate in the Kimberley fishery.

Bioregion - North Coast

Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery

Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by E. Sporer and M. Kangas Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: 278-576 tonnes Catch current season (1999): Major penaeids 303 tonnes, comprising: Banana prawns 276 tonnes Tiger prawns 16 tonnes Endeavour prawns 11 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $3.5 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Major penaeids 301-645 tonnes, comprising: Banana prawns 275-525 tonnes* Tiger prawns 15-40 tonnes Endeavour prawns 11-80 tonnes (*based on rainfall-catch relationship; others based on five-year range)

Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this fishery are ‘all Western Australian waters of the Indian Ocean lying east of 123º45´ east longitude and west of 126º58´ east longitude’. Seasonal dates for the Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery are aligned with those of the adjacent Northern Prawn Fishery. Consequently, the 1999 season opened on 1 April and closed for the mid-season closure on 1 June. The fishery re-opened on 4 August and ran until the final season closure on 15 November.

Research assessments are provided to annual meetings of vessel operators and provide the basis for recommending changes to management arrangements each year.

Although a total of 134 vessels had access to the Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery under various licensing arrangements, only 46 vessels operated in the fishery during the 1999 season.

The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Annual Production Main fishing method Otter trawl. Landings The total landings for the 1999 season were 303 tonnes, including 276 tonnes of banana prawns, 16 tonnes of tiger prawns, and 11 tonnes of endeavour prawns (Kimberley Prawn Figure 1).

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

55

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries The banana prawn catch was within the range expected using the preliminary relationship between summer rainfall (December to March) and catches. The estimate has a wide range because of highly variable catches due to environmental conditions (summer rainfall), the large extent of coastline, the topography of the coastline, and large tidal fluctuations. The tiger and endeavour prawn catches were also within or close to the expected range for these species (15-46 tonnes and 13-80 tonnes respectively).

catch is banana prawns which school, the fishery is unlikely to have a significant bycatch. The overall impact of the fishery is assessed as low.

Fishing effort Not assessed.

The relationship between summer rainfall (December to March) and the catch of banana prawns is being investigated further. As banana prawns usually comprise the majority of the prawn catch from this fishery, this correlation will assist fishers and managers to make the best use of this fishery.

Catch rate Not assessed.

General Comments Minimum catch monitoring is completed for this relatively minor fishery. Data for vessels operating in this fishery come from both Western Australia’s monthly fishers’ returns and AFMA’s Northern Prawn Fishery logbook program.

Stock Assessment Although there has been no formal stock assessment based on catches and fishing effort for the Kimberley prawn stocks, nevertheless the relationship recognised from other fisheries between rainfall and catches of banana prawns (the dominant species taken in this area) may provide a degree of forecasting.

Squid catches continue to be very low, with only about 63 kg reported. In contrast, in 1993 there were 430 tonnes of squid landed. It is not known whether this dramatic reduction is due solely to environmental change or the normal range of cyclical variation in abundance, or whether in part it reflects the effects of fishing.

Preliminary investigations have shown promising relationships between early season rainfall (December to March) and the subsequent catch of banana prawns. Rainfall during the period December 1999 to March 2000 (1,258 mm at Derby and 1,737 mm at Kalumburu) was higher than during the same period in 1998/1999, which would indicate that banana prawn catches for 2000 should be in the range of 275-525 tonnes. Investigations on refining rainfall–catch relationships are continuing.

This fishery is used by relatively few stand-alone, Kimberley-only vessels for the complete fishing season. Boats from Nickol Bay and elsewhere in Western Australia use it at certain times of the year to complement catches in their local fisheries. Vessels fishing in the Northern Prawn Fishery in the Gulf of Carpentaria also use this fishery for periods each year, and in fact the Kimberley fishing season is set to mirror dates used in the NPF, to prevent the small Kimberley fishery from attracting too much fishing effort from its large neighbour.

Breeding Stock Levels Not assessed. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Under current effort levels, the catch prediction for the banana prawn is 275-525 tonnes. Similarly, the catch projections for tiger prawns and endeavour prawns are 15-40 and 11-80 tonnes respectively. Total catch range is 301-645 tonnes, based on a preliminary rainfall–catch relationship for banana prawns and the acceptable catch range for other species. Product Value for Year 1999 Wholesale prices for prawns vary depending on the type of product and the market forces operating at any one time. Generally, average prices were as follows: Banana prawns Tiger prawns Endeavour prawns

$11.40/kg $15.70/kg $9.80/kg

Environmental Risk Assessment The Kimberley prawn trawl fishery operates over a very limited sector, estimated to be less than 5% of the licensed area. Owing to the unusual nature of the environment, characterised by extreme (10 m range) tides, heavy mud substrates and high turbidity, the fishing is judged to have minimal impact on the habitat. As the majority of the

56

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - North Coast

Kimberley Annual Prawn Catch 500 450

Landings (tonnes)

400

King Tiger Endeavour Banana

350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99

Year

KIMBERLEY PRAWN FIGURE 1 Annual landings for the Kimberley Prawn Managed Fishery, 1980-1999.

Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery (KGBMF) extends from the WA/NT border to Eighty Mile Beach, south of Broome. It encompasses the taking of fish by means of gillnet and the taking of barramundi by any means. The species taken are predominantly barramundi (Lates calcarifer) and threadfin salmon (Eleutheronema tetradactylum). The main areas of the fishery are the river systems of the northern Kimberley, the Fitzroy River, Roebuck Bay and Eighty Mile Beach. Future management arrangements for this fishery are currently being considered. However, as a result of the resource-sharing conflict between the KGBMF licensees and the recreational fishing sector, the Minister implemented a Fisheries Adjustment Scheme in April 1998 for voluntary surrender of KGBMF licences. This reduced the number of KGBMF licences to seven by June 1999. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Limited resources coupled with the extensive geographical area of this fishery impose restrictions on compliance monitoring. Resource-sharing issues are increasing the demand for compliance activity, with the major areas of concern continuing to be the Lower Ord River and Roebuck Bay. In addition, many remote areas

which have traditionally been accessed by this fishery have now become frequently visited tourist destinations. This has resulted from the establishment of fly in/fly out remote fishing camps and the increasing use of helicopters as a transport medium for recreational fishing tours. The majority of compliance activities in this fishery relate to resource-sharing issues between the commercial sector and recreational, charter and indigenous fishing interests. Patrols were conducted in response to illegal activity reports in Roebuck Bay and the southern boundary of the fishery near Anna Plains. RESEARCH SUMMARY The data necessary to assess the status of the series of barramundi stocks taken by this fishery are provided from the CAESS database. The following status report is compiled annually and provided to industry and regional management. Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Only for barramundi (Lates calcarifer) Exploitation status: Barramundi fully exploited in some areas

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

57

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries Breeding stock levels: Adequate for barramundi Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: Barramundi 25-40 tonnes Catch current season (1998/99): All species 143.7 tonnes Barramundi 37.6 tonnes Estimated annual value for year 1998/99: All species $690,000 Barramundi $280,000 Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): Barramundi 25-40 tonnes Boundaries and Access The boundaries of this limited entry fishery are ‘all Western Australian waters lying north of 19º south latitude and west of 129º east longitude and within three nautical miles seawards of the low water mark of the mainland of Western Australia and the waters of King Sound of 16º21´38˝ south latitude’. Access to the fishery was by eight vessels during 1998/99. (Note: The distribution of barramundi catches in Western Australia extends further south to the Ashburton River near Onslow. These catches are outside of the boundaries of the managed fishery and are not included in this status report). Annual Production Main fishing method Gillnet. Landings Each of five principal fishing areas is considered separately because of differing histories of development, effort application, recreational interest and unit stock considerations: Cambridge Gulf/Ord River, Kimberley coast (six river systems), King Sound/Fitzroy River, Broome coast, and Pilbara coast to the Ashburton River, the last of which is south of the prescribed restricted entry fishery (below latitude 19ºS). Landings from the Pilbara coast are not included in the total catch figure. Total landings of barramundi for all four prescribed fishing areas were 37.6 tonnes for 1998/99 (Barramundi Figure 1). This catch of barramundi was greater than those of the previous two years. During the past seven years the total barramundi catch has remained stable between 32.3 tonnes and 43.8 tonnes. In addition to the barramundi catch, there was a reported catch of 106 tonnes of other fishes including approximately 2.6 tonnes of shark, 97.7 tonnes of giant threadfin, and 5.7 tonnes of other finfish. Fishing effort The fishing effort in this gillnet fishery is calculated as the total annual number of fishing days by all boats multiplied by the average daily total of 100 m lengths of gillnet used per boat. During 1998/99, the total effort across the four prescribed fishing areas was 1,028 units. This total effort is the lowest in the past 11 years (Barramundi Figure 1).

58

Catch rate The catch and effort for barramundi peaked in the late 1980s and since then total catch and effort have fallen, with an accompanying increase in catch per unit of effort. The current CPUE is the highest in the past 11 years (Barramundi Figure 1). Stock Assessment A biomass dynamics model was used to estimate equilibrium effort for the barramundi stock for each of the five principal fishing areas (including the Pilbara area which is outside of the managed fishery). The average annual equilibrium effort estimated from the model, for the past three years, is 630 units for the Cambridge Gulf/Ord River area and 550 units for the Broome area. The equilibrium effort level is higher for the Kimberley and King Sound/Fitzroy River areas at 3,600 and 9,700 units respectively. The 1998/99 reported fishing effort falls well below the equilibrium effort levels described by the models. This is the first time in the five years where the fishery has been modelled that effort has fallen below the equilibrium level in the Broome area. Increased catches under conditions of declining effort have resulted in higher catch rates, suggesting that fish are now more abundant. Breeding Stock Levels Assessment of the barramundi stocks indicates adequate levels of breeding stock to maintain recruitment to the fishery. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year 1999/2000 The expected catch range for barramundi under the current management regime is 25-40 tonnes. This projection is derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the annual catches up to 1998/99 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. The future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, management changes may need to be considered. Product Value for Year 1998/99 The landed value of the catch is approximately $690,000 from the managed fishery. Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery operates at a relatively low intensity over a wide area of the Kimberley, specifically targeting barramundi and threadfin salmon. The fishing gear, with large mesh sizes, does not generate a significant bycatch of species important to other sectors, but does take saw sharks, rays and some crocodiles. Because of the low effort levels, these impacts are unlikely to be significant to the stocks involved. Overall, this fishery with its low exploitation rate is likely to have little effect on the Kimberley ecosystem as a whole.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Resource sharing between commercial and recreational fishers on the Ord River is a current issue. However, recent and anticipated levels of commercial fishing by existing operators pose no threat to the viability of the

Fish catch (tonnes)

Since 1995/96, the catch of threadfin salmon has been considerable and higher than the catch of barramundi, making it the major species in this fishery in recent years (Barramundi Figure 2).

Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Fishery Barramundi

50

4,000

40 3,000 30 2,000 20 Catch - tonnes CPUE - kg/100 m net days Effort - 100 m net days

10

1,000

Effort (100 m net days)

5,000

60

CPUE (kg/100 m net days)

Bioregion - North Coast

resource. At current levels of fishing it is unlikely that the abundance of fish is being significantly impacted by the commercial sector. At this time there are no available figures on recreational catch and effort. Surveys of recreational catches in 1999/2000 and 2000/01 in this region will provide more detail on the impact of recreational fishing on stock levels. Estimates of the catch and effort from the recreational fishing sector have been added to the current models and were presented at a barramundi workshop in early 2000. This model is being peer-reviewed and will be presented in next year’s report.

General Comments An annual research report was made available for the annual management meeting held in Broome in March. Management needs to consider, at least, the five subdivisions of the barramundi stocks over such a large distribution, because of differing histories of development, effort application, recreational interest and unit stock considerations. Barramundi are fished on an open west coast fishing licence along the Pilbara coast. There are no specific management restrictions on these fishers.

0

0 89/90

91/92

93/94

95/96

97/98

Year

BARRAMUNDI FIGURE 1 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE, kg/100 m net day) for barramundi from the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery over the period 1988/89 to 1998/99.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

59

Fish catch (tonnes)

Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Fishery Threadfin 5,000

CPUE (kg/100 m net days)

120 Catch - tonnes CPUE - kg/100 m net days Effort - 100 m net days

100

4,000

80 3,000 60 2,000 40 1,000

20

Effort (100 m net days)

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries

0

0 89/90

91/92

93/94

95/96

97/98

Year

BARRAMUNDI FIGURE 2 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE, kg/100 m net day) for threadfin salmon from the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery over the period 1988/89 to 1998/99.

Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery (NDSIMF) was established on 1 January 1998. The boats with access to this fishery previously operated within the Kimberley Trap Fishery and the Kimberley Demersal Line Interim Managed Fishery. Several applicants seeking authorisation to operate within this fishery are involved in an objection tribunal process, which will determine their future access.

COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY The vessels in this fishery are based mainly at Broome, with some operating from Darwin at certain times of the year. During 1999/2000 seven boats utilised the 11 time access entitlements available to the fishery. The fishery is under interim management arrangements and is managed mainly under time, gear and area restrictions.

The fishery targets demersal scalefish through the use of both traps and line, although the management arrangements only allow for one gear type to be used at a time. The management methods for this fishery presently include a limited number of vessels, gear restrictions, size limits for some species and individual transferable effort allocations (monitored by the VMS).

The VMS is the major compliance tool used in this fishery, and compliance largely centres on the use of this system to manage access time for individual fishing units. Patrols were conducted to inspect catch during jetty unloads and at local processing establishments. Gear inspections were conducted during at-sea patrols using the joint agency patrol vessel Walcott, as well as inspections at processing establishments.

The fishery was established by the Minister following a report from a working group set up in August 1995 to develop recommendations on long-term management arrangements for northern demersal scalefish stocks. In April 1998, the Minister appointed a management advisory committee (MAC) for the fishery. It is anticipated that the fishery will move to fully managed fishery status at the cessation of the interim management arrangements (likely to be January 2001).

60

However, the timing of the implementation of full managed fishery status is dependent on the resolution of a number of objections related to access to the fishery.

RESEARCH SUMMARY A major three-year research project to assess the status of the major stocks which contribute to this fishery is due for completion at the end of 1999/2000. This project will provide the basis for setting a notional total allowable catch (TAC) and long-term effort levels to maintain catches. The following status report provides a synthesis of the current data from the fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Main Features Stock assessment complete: No Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Limited data Previous catch projections for year 1999: 600-1,000 tonnes Catch current season (1999): 577 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $ 2.98 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 600-1,000 tonnes Boundaries and Access The waters of the NDSIMF are defined as all Western Australian waters off the north coast of Western Australia east of longitude 120ºE. These waters extend out to the edge of the Australian Fishing Zone (200 nautical mile) limit under the Offshore Constitutional Settlement arrangements (Northern Demersal Scalefish Figure 1). The fishery is further divided into two fishing zones, an inshore zone (Zone 1) and an offshore zone (Zone 2) (see Northern Demersal Scalefish Figure 1). The demersal scalefish resources of the deeper waters of the offshore zone (greater than 200 m depth) are currently being investigated; these waters are shown on Northern Demersal Scalefish Figure 1 as the research fishing zone. The inshore waters in the vicinity of Broome are closed to commercial fishing. The closed area extends from Cape Bossut to Cape Coulomb, inside a line which approximates as closely as possible the 30 m bathymetric contour. Access to the NDSIMF is currently limited to 11 licences, although the access rights can be operated by a lesser number of vessels. Annual Production Main fishing method Fish trap and line techniques, mainly handline and/or dropline. Landings The reported catch in the NDSIMF declined in 1997 and 1998 after steady increases in reported catches from 1992 to 1996 (Northern Demersal Scalefish Table 1, Northern

Bioregion - North Coast

Northern Demersal Scalefish Interim Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Newman

Demersal Scalefish Figure 2). In the two years since the implementation of management controls, the reported catch has been relatively stable between 540 and 580 tonnes. The trap catch in 1999 was down slightly to 486 tonnes, while the line catch increased to 91 tonnes (Northern Demersal Scalefish Table 1, Northern Demersal Scalefish Figure 2). A number of operators within the NDSIMF are also involved in other fisheries in the region, such as the fishery for Spanish mackerel. The catches of pelagic fishes such as the mackerels are not included in the demersal scalefish catch. The catch of Spanish mackerel and other mackerels is presented on pages 71-75. Fishing effort The fish trap effort (in boat days fished) in 1999 increased from the 1998 level (Northern Demersal Scalefish Table 1). As in 1998, a large proportion of the allocated effort in the fishery remained unutilised. The line effort recorded in 1999 was up on that recorded in 1998, but was still less than 30% of the line effort level recorded in 1997 (Northern Demersal Scalefish Table 1). The line boats operating within the NDSIMF in recent years have not been economically viable. Fishers have attributed this to an absence of large snapper schools in the fishery, which has resulted in the reduced line effort during 1998 and 1999. Catch rate Catch per unit effort in the trap fishery was comparatively stable prior to 1997. The 1997 CPUE was down on previous years and suggested a slight downward trend. However, the implementation of management controls (i.e. a limitation on the available fishing effort) in 1998 and 1999 has corresponded to an increase in the trap CPUE. The CPUE of the line fishery has been relatively stable over the past three years. Stock Assessment The introduction of formal management procedures has restricted the number of vessels permitted to fish the NDSIMF. A target total allowable catch of 800 tonnes was adopted so that the industry will be well positioned when the results of the stock assessment are finalised. The control adopted to maintain a catch level of approximately 800 tonnes was a restriction on the number of trap or line days fished by each vessel exploiting the NDSIMF demersal scalefish resource. Trap and line effort units are allocated on the basis of historical catch rates to enable the target catch to be achieved. Decision rules have been introduced to manage variations in catch around the target TAC. The outcome from this process for the 2000 season is noted in the Acceptable Catch Range section below. A major three-year FRDC-funded research project began in 1997 and is to be completed in 2000. The primary objective of this research project is to undertake a formal stock assessment of the key demersal finfish species in the NDSIMF, principally red emperor and goldband snapper. Preliminary results to date suggest the fishery is fully exploited and may be operating above optimum levels for some species, noting that the TAC has not been achieved in recent years.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

61

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries Breeding Stock Levels Limited data are available on breeding stock levels for the key species in this multi-species fishery. Estimates of the size at maturity for female and male goldband snapper are 477 mm fork length and 455 mm fork length respectively. Estimates of the size at maturity for female and male red emperor are 435 mm and 459 mm fork length respectively. There is currently no legal minimum size for goldband snapper within the fishery and all fish landed are sent to market. The current legal minimum size for red emperor is 410 mm total length. This is below the size at maturity for these fish in Kimberley waters. Consideration needs to be given to increasing the legal minimum size of red emperor in the Kimberley region. Adoption of a legal minimum size for goldband snapper is not recommended due to the high mortality associated with the capture of these fish from depth as a result of the rapid expansion and rupture of their swim bladder.

the fishery has not achieved its TAC or effort levels in recent years, it is likely that the stock assessment will indicate a lower catch level in the future. Recreational fishing pressure in the Broome region is also increasing, and potentially involves thousands of anglers per year. A recreational creel survey began in December 1999 to determine the magnitude and composition of the recreational fishing catch between Exmouth and Broome. At present there is little recreational fishing effort directed towards deeper water fish species, which are the key species targeted in the commercial fishery.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The allowable effort in 2000 has continued to be adjusted to target a TAC of approximately 800 tonnes. The effort level set for the 2000 calendar year was a total of approximately 1,562 fishing boat days, which is equitably distributed among all licence holders within the fishery. If the 1999 CPUE is maintained and all allocated effort is utilised, the target TAC of 800 tonnes will be achieved in the 2000 calendar year. If the CPUE and associated catch in 2000 declines below that achieved in 1999, a review will be undertaken to determine whether management action is required. Product Value for Year 1999 The NDSIMF principally targets the high-value species such as red emperor and goldband snapper. The fishery landed a total of 577 tonnes of demersal scalefish in 1999, for a catch value of over $2.98 million. This value is higher than that reported in 1999 owing to the higher catch. The average price received by fishers in 1999 was marginally better than in 1998. Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery operates in relatively deep water using fish traps and lines, and targets discrete reef areas throughout its large fishing zone. A large inshore closure around Broome provides additional protection for the stocks. Owing to the nature of the fishery and the trap design, there is no significant bycatch and no impact on protected species. As a result of the gear design, the fishery has little impact on the habitat and ‘ghost fishing’ by traps is unlikely to be significant. Overall the ecological impact of the fishery is considered to be low. General Comments Currently, the demersal fishes of the Kimberley region are considered to be fully exploited and some species may be over-exploited. Detailed stock assessments of the key demersal finfish species to determine the stock exploitation status will be undertaken at the conclusion of the initial three-year research project in 2000. Noting that

62

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

124oE

Bioregion - North Coast

122oE

128oE

126oE

dary oun B Z AF

12oS

14oS Research fishing zone

Zo

ne

2

n Zo

16oS

e

1

Wyndham

Prohibited fishing zone

18oS

Research fishing zone

Broome

Zone 1 (inshore zone) Zone 2 (offshore zone) AFZ boundary

NORTHERN DEMERSAL SCALEFISH FIGURE 1 Boundaries and access zones of the NDSIMF.

1,000,000 Total Trap

Catch (kg)

800,000

Line

600,000

400,000

200,000

0 85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

Year

NORTHERN DEMERSAL SCALEFISH FIGURE 2 Catch of demersal scalefish in the NDSIMF.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

63

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries NORTHERN DEMERSAL SCALEFISH TABLE 1 o o Demersal finfish catches by method in the NDSIMF (longitude 120 to 129 E). Year

Line Catch (kg)

Fish trap Effort* (block days)**

Total catch (kg)

Catch (kg)

Effort (block days)**

1985

9,031

310

3,832

261

12,863

1986

10,985

219

1,092

111

12,077

1987

29,680

498

150

49

29,830

1988

11,015

572

11,186

203

22,201

1989

27,205

267

26,595

81

53,800

1990

5,826

91

203,941

395

209,767

1991

20,407

255

316,228

750

336,635

1992

30,693

433

695,954

1,776

726,647

1993

24,240

283

747,215

1,713

771,455

1994

76,930

453

656,937

1,349

733,867

1995

272,840

1,204

555,162

1,200

828,002

1996

243,863

1,319

706,063

1,412

949,926

1997

147,582

788

555,172

1,293

702,754

The NDSF came under full management in 1998 and effort levels have been limited in each year since. 1998+

44,703

79

498,984

845#

543,687

1999++

91,045

224

485,918

927#

576,963

* ** # + ++

Line methods that have been selected for the calculation of effort include handline, dropline and longline only. Block days are defined as the number of days on which fishing occurred in a particular block by a particular vessel (that is, block boat days). Trap fishing effort from 1998 onwards has been converted to standard trap fishing days for comparison with previous years. 1684 standard fishing boat days were allocated in 1998. 1716 standard fishing boat days were allocated in 1999.

Pilbara Demersal Finfish Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Since the early 1990s, the majority of demersal finfish taken off the North-West Shelf have come from fish trawling activities. Access to the fishery was previously provided for by a condition on fishing boat licences which provided a system of monthly access. However, in 1998 the fishery became an interim managed fishery (the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery). Fishing effort in this fishery is controlled through area closures, gear restrictions and time units monitored by the VMS. Owing to concerns about excess effort in this fishery, the time access available to the fishery has been decreased by 33% since the management plan was gazetted in January 1998. In the Pilbara Trap Managed Fishery new management measures were introduced on 1 January 2000. These measures will control effort through the allocation of transferable time/gear units, the use of which is monitored

64

by VMS, and will ensure that the catch taken by this fishery remains within sustainable limits. Management arrangements for the Pilbara Line Fishery are currently under review. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY The major compliance tool for the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery continues to be the VMS, which is monitored from a client station at the Fisheries WA Karratha district office. In addition, Fisheries Officers from the Pilbara region have carried out numerous landbased and sea patrols to inspect the Pilbara fish trawl fleet, concentrating mainly on ensuring that all crew and vessels are appropriately licensed and that only the permitted fishing gear is being used. Catches are also checked on a regular basis. Six offences have been detected within this fishery via use of the VMS system with prosecution action pending.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - North Coast

The Pilbara Trap Managed Fishery came under VMS management arrangements during the 1999/2000 financial year and is also monitored from Karratha. Fisheries Officers, with officers from the Department of Transport, completed at-sea patrols utilising the patrol vessel Walcott. At-sea inspections were carried out, as well as in-port checks on licences and catches at Beadon Creek.

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $8.8 million Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Trawl fishery 2,100-2,400 tonnes Trap and line fishery 300-400 tonnes Mackerel, tuna, shark Not available

No major offences were detected in this fishery. A number of checks on catches and licences were also carried out on Pilbara line fishery vessels, specifically at Port Hedland, Point Samson, Dampier and Onslow. No offences were detected. RESEARCH SUMMARY Baseline research for managing these important fish stocks was conducted in two FRDC-funded projects from 1993 to 1999, providing a basis for long-term research monitoring of the stocks. In addition, research surveys of the deeper areas adjacent to the existing trawl grounds have been completed under a separate FRDC-funded project. The following status report, which provides a synthesis of the data from the fishery, is based on the results of this research and monitoring. Pilbara Demersal Finfish Fisheries Status Report Prepared by P. Stephenson Main Features Stock assessment complete: Trawl fishery Yes Trap and line fishery No Exploitation status: Trawl fishery

Trap and line fishery

Recreational component (1999): Charter 47 tonnes General Unknown Boundaries and Access The Pilbara Trap Managed Fishery (Pilbara Figure 1) lies north of latitude 21º44′S and between longitudes 114º9′36″E and 120ºE on the landward side of the 200 m isobath and seaward of a line generally following the 30 m isobath. This has been a managed fishery since 1992. At present there are six licences with a total allocation of 78 fully transferable trap units. In the year 2000, effort quota will be allocated to each licensee. The boundaries of the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery (Pilbara Figure 1) are the waters lying north of latitude 21º35′S and between longitudes 114º9′36″E and 120ºE on the landward side of the 200 m isobath and seaward of a line generally following the 50 m depth contour. The trawl fishery consists of two zones. Zone 1, in the west of the fishery, is currently not being trawled. In Zone 2, the interim management plan in 1998 set down boundaries for six management sub-areas. There are 11 licence units with varying time allocations throughout Areas 1 to 6. Line fishing is unrestricted in all areas of the fishery, but planning for limiting access began with the release of a discussion paper in November 1997.

The most abundant, shortlived species range from under-exploited in some areas to fully exploited in other areas. The long-lived species are fully exploited and in some areas locally depleted.

Pilbara Figure 1 is a general diagram showing areas where specific fishing activities are permitted within this fishery. The exact latitudes and longitudes delineating the sectors of the Pilbara fishery are listed in the Pilbara Trap Managed Fishery Management Plan 1992 and the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery Management Plan 1997.

Fully exploited

Main fishing method Trawling is the dominant fishing method, with line fishing and trapping being relatively minor components.

Breeding stock levels: Majority of species - adequate Red emperor - recovering Previous catch projections for year 1999: Trawl fishery 2,300-2,600 tonnes Trap and line fishery Not available Catch current season (1999): Trawl fishery 2,230 tonnes Trap fishery 371 tonnes Line fishery 50 tonnes Shark (by trawl) 63 tonnes Netting (excluding shark) 16 tonnes

Annual Production

Landings Catch of the major species for 1999 is shown in Pilbara Table 1. The catches by different fishing methods for the years 1985 to 1999 are shown in Pilbara Table 2 and illustrated in Pilbara Figure 2. A summary for 1999 is given below. Demersal scalefish by trawl, trap and line - 2,651 tonnes Shark caught by fish trawl - 63 tonnes

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

65

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries The 1999 trawl fishery catch was 2,230 tonnes, compared to 2,512 tonnes in 1998. The reduced catch was due to reduction in effort allocation in 1999. The major species landed in 1999 (1998 catch in brackets) were blue spot emperor 445 tonnes (466 tonnes), red snapper 230 tonnes (309 tonnes), red emperor 78 tonnes (91 tonnes), flagfish 189 tonnes (197 tonnes), threadfin bream 217 tonnes (288 tonnes), jobfish 82 tonnes (104 tonnes) and Rankin cod 34 tonnes (33 tonnes). The catches of the larger, valuable species – red emperor, jobfish and scarlet perch – decreased in 1999 (as they did in 1998) due to effort redistribution and reduction. The catches of blue spot emperor, flagfish, and rosy threadfin bream were similar to last year’s catches. The trap fishery catch increased to 371 tonnes in 1999 (250 tonnes in 1998) due to increased interest prior to introduction of effort quota in 2000; line fishing catches were lower at 50 tonnes (78 tonnes in 1998). Major species taken by trap and line were spangled emperor, red emperor, jobfish, Rankin cod and scarlet perch.

Catch rate for the trap fishery (based on the reported number of days fished) was slightly lower in 1999 than in the last two years, but fluctuates as skilled operators move in and out of the fishery. The catch rates in the line fishery were low because there was little activity by dedicated operators.

In the trawl fleet there are the equivalent of seven fulltime vessels. The number of hours allocated to the fleet in each area of the fishery (measured by a satellite monitoring system), the number of hours used, and the percentage of the allocation used in 1998 and 1999 are shown in Pilbara Table 4.

Stock Assessment Trawl fishery: The effort reduction appears have arrested the decline in the catch rates. An age-structured model (using biological information, age structure, catch from 1989 to 1999 and catch rates from 1993 to 1999) was used to assess the red emperor and blue spot emperor stocks. The assessment criterion was that ‘the spawning biomass should not decrease below 25% of the estimated virgin level in the fishing area’. The assessment indicated that red emperor spawning biomass would be expected to decline to quite a low level in Area 1, level off at close to the reference point in Area 2, and rapidly increase in Area 3. Overall, in the western half of the fishery (Areas 1, 2, and 3) the spawning stock would be expected to slowly recover to the reference point in the next five years. Blue spot emperor spawning biomass would be expected to decline in Area 1 for the next few years, but then remain steady at a level above the reference point. There was no indication of decline for this species in Areas 2 or 3. For red emperor and blue spot emperor, there was insufficient information for an assessment to be made in Areas 4, 5 or 6. On the basis of this modelling, the 1999 level allocation was continued into 2000.

The management plan allows for some flexibility in the effort distribution between areas, which resulted in an effort over-run in 1999 of 12% in Area 2 and 5% in Area 4 (compared with 14% and 11% in 1998). There was no trawling in Area 6, the research zone, in 1999. The 2000 effort allocation will remain the same as in 1999.

Trap fishery: Catches increased in 1999 due to increased effort by dedicated operators. As a result, the trap catch for the year was higher than the recommended cap of 300 tonnes, however the introduction of an effort quota in 2000 should result in catch reductions to more appropriate levels in the next few years.

Five trap boats operating with approximately 13 traps each resulted in a fishing effort of 842 days in 1999 (compared with 503 days in 1998). Effort quota will be introduced in 2000, with a total allocation to the fleet of 5,867 trap days.

Line fishery: The line catch was low in 1999 with few dedicated operators and lower effort levels.

The shark catch by fish trawlers was 63 tonnes in 1999, while trap fishers reported an insignificant catch of shark (0.1 tonne). The catch of shark in this fishery by other methods is reported under the North Coast Shark Fisheries (pages 76-77). Troll catches are included in the report on Spanish mackerel stocks (pages 71-75). Fishing effort The fishing effort in the trap, line and trawl sectors of the commercial fishery is shown in Pilbara Table 3. The effort in days is from monthly catch and effort returns, however for the trawl fishery, the effort from 1991 to 1998 is also recorded as the net bottom time (hours) taken from skippers’ logbook data.

In 1999, line fishers reported operating for 453 days (693 days in 1998). Line fishing in the Pilbara is still unrestricted but this situation is under review. The fishing activities of trap and line fishers have continued to expand into the waters seaward of the 100 m depth contour.

66

Catch rate The catch rates (based on nominal effort) of red emperor have declined slightly in Areas 1, 4 and 5, but increased in Area 2. Rankin cod and blue spot emperor catch rates increased in all areas of the trawl fishery. No decline in catch rates is evident for flagfish or rosy threadfin bream. However, the efficiency of the fish trawl fleet has probably continued to increase because of improving skipper efficiency and use of electronic equipment to target fish. This expected efficiency increase means that the catch rates are likely to be biased upwards in future years.

Breeding Stock Levels Breeding stocks of the short-lived species have been assessed as adequate overall in the fishing area. The spawning biomass of red emperor was, however, estimated to have fallen below the reference point in Area 1 in the period 1997-1999. However, this represents a local depletion, as Area 1 consists of only one-eighth of the area where this species occurs in the Pilbara fishery. Recovery of the spawning stocks in the west of the fishery is expected with the 1999 effort reductions. Careful ongoing

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) In the trawl fishery, with effort quota being the same as 1999, the catch projection is 2,100-2,400 tonnes. The effort quota in the trap fishery is expected to result in a catch of 300-400 tonnes. Line fishing is in a dynamic state and a catch projection is not possible. Product Value for Year 1999 $8.9 million. There has been little overall increase in prices in the last 12 months. The value of the trawl fish catch varies depending on the species mix of the catch, which consists of low-valued species such as blue spot emperor and threadfin bream (landed value $2/kg), and higher-valued species, like red emperor and jobfish, with a landed value of $5-$8/kg. The trap and line catch is dominated by the valuable species such as red emperor and jobfish. The estimated value of the production of each sector in 1999 is: Trawl Trap and line Total

2,293 t @ $3.10/kg $7.1 million 421 t @ $4.25/kg $1.8 million $8.9 million

Bioregion - North Coast

monitoring to ensure compliance with effort reductions is required to maintain satisfactory breeding stock levels of the long-lived species within the fishing zone.

Recreational Fishing The reported recreational fishing charter catches are for vessels operating around the offshore islands in the west Pilbara out of Exmouth and Onslow. The reported catches from charter operators have increased in the last two years. General Comments There was decreased activity in the line fishery in 1999 but increased interest in trapping in the lead-up to the introduction of effort quota in 2000. The Pilbara fish trawl fleet catches declined in 1999 and it is likely that there will be a slow recovery of the stocks of long-lived species like red emperor and Rankin cod. The smaller species such as flagfish and threadfin bream are probably under-exploited. Development of fishing methods which increase catches of these species without increasing catches of the large, long-lived species could increase the economic return from the fishery. Research is needed to obtain more detailed information on habitat distribution, recovery times and recruitment to assist in future decisions on redistribution of trawl effort. In the deep-water zone (100-200 m depth), the fish species are concentrated between the depths of 100 m and 140 m and are likely to be highly vulnerable to overfishing. Industry surveys monitored by the Research Division suggest that stocks in this zone are limited and should only be subjected to low levels of effort in future.

The prices above may contain some component of freight and handling and landed prices may in some cases be lower. Environmental Risk Assessment The fish trawl fishery operates with standard stern trawling (single net with extension sweeps) within an area previously trawled by a Taiwanese fleet. In the portion of the fishery between 50 m and 100 m depth, where fish and benthic habitat are most abundant, approximately 60% of the area is presently trawled due to area closures in Area 3 and west of 116ºE. Owing to the relatively large mesh size used, the fishery has a small fish bycatch, but does take some sessile benthic species such as sponges. Over most of the trawled area the benthic mortality is estimated at approximately 10% of the stock per year, with higher mortality in the west where effort is greatest. It is not known if this rate exceeds the rate of regrowth. The area landward of 50 m is permanently closed to trawling and Area 6 (seaward of 100 m) has zero effort allocation in 1999 and 2000. The fishery also involves the occasional capture of dolphins which are apparently attracted to the trawl while it is operating. The significance of these accidental captures, relative to the population size and natural mortality of the North-West Shelf dolphin stock, needs to be assessed further. There is an extensive area of the North-West Shelf east of the Pilbara fishery which is not trawled, but it is not known if there are differences in benthic community along the North-West Shelf.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

67

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries 115˚ 18˚

117˚

119˚

Key Tw = Trawl fishing Tp = Trap fishing

Area 6

Tw & Tp

Zone 1 Zone 2

Area 5

19˚ Area 4

Area 2

INDIAN OCEAN

Tp

Area 3

Area 1

20˚

Port Hedland

Tp Point Samson

Tw 21˚

Tp

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Onslow

PILBARA FIGURE 1 Demersal scalefish fisheries of the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Areas 1 to 6 refer to the management regions in Zone 2 of the trawl fishery.

3,500 Scalefish catch by line

3,000

Scalefish catch by trap Scalefish catch by fish trawl

Catch (tonnes)

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

Year

PILBARA FIGURE 2 Catches of demersal scalefish (tonnes) in the Pilbara fishery by trap, line and trawl.

68

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

1998

1996

1994

1992

1990

1988

1986

1984

0

Bioregion - North Coast

PILBARA TABLE 1 Commercial catches in tonnes and the percentages of each major species taken by trawl, trap and line in the Pilbara fishery in 1999.

Fish trawl catch

Trap catch

Line catch

Total catch

tonnes

%

tonnes

%

tonnes

%

tonnes

Red emperor

78

56

55

40

6

4

139

Rankin cod

34

37

52

57

5

6

91

Scarlet perch

72

76

22

24

0

0

94

Red snapper

230

91

22

9

1

0

253

Jobfish

82

67

38

32

1

1

121

Spangled emperor

28

27

63

61

12

12

103

Blue spot emperor

445

94

27

6

1

0

473

Flagfish

189

98

3

2

-

-

192

Threadfin bream

217

100

1

0

-

-

217

Frypan snapper

59

97

2

3

-

-

61

Other species

797

75

86

8

24

17

1,060

All demersal

2,230

80

371

13

50

7

2,806

PILBARA TABLE 2 Summary of reported commercial catches (tonnes) of demersal scalefish by line, trap and trawl, total demersal scalefish, scombrid catch by trolling, shark catch by all methods, and the reported charter catch, in the Pilbara fishery. In 1999, mackerel catch, and shark catch by methods other than trap and trawl, are reported elsewhere.

Year

Demersal scalefish Trawl

Troll

Shark

Charter

Line

Trap

Total

1985

180

168

-

348

132

22

-

1986

65

113

-

178

97

25

-

1987

67

192

3

262

119

19

-

1988

136

243

3

382

79

24

-

1989

104

457

124

685

116

29

-

1990

157

407

421

985

209

57

-

1991

107

119

754

980

196

132

3

1992

63

148

1,413

1,624

125

273

7

1993

67

178

1,724

1,969

160

143

7

1994

79

207

2,506

2,792

144

144

12

1995

95

222

2,821

3,138

131

67

15

1996

136

302

3,201

3,639

119

123

33

1997

109

234

2,630

2,973

152

96

22

1998

78

250

2,512

2,840

121

333

36

1999

50

371

2,230

2,651

-

63

47

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

69

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries PILBARA TABLE 3 Summary of effort in the Pilbara fishery. The trap, line and trawl effort (days) is from monthly catch and effort returns. The line effort for 1985 to 1998 includes trolling; in 1999, trolling effort is reported elsewhere. The trawl effort (hours) is nominal effort from operators’ logbook data.

Year

Line (days)

Trap (days)

Trawl (days)

Trawl (hours)

1985

809

709

-

-

1986

655

548

19

-

1987

614

507

17

-

1988

985

804

32

-

1989

863

1,198

310

-

1990

1,332

1,321

698

-

1991

740

472

1,132

8,660

1992

514

681

983

10,030

1993

876

696

832

10,725

1994

732

545

1,484

22,087

1995

852

608

1,571

21,529

1996

814

513

1,550

25,246

1997

809

483

1,389

19,810

1998

692

503

1,291

20,555

1999

453

842

1,139

15,963

PILBARA TABLE 4 The number of hours allocated, the number of hours used and the percentage of the allocation used in 1998 and 1999 in each area of the Pilbara trawl fishery.

70

Area 1

Area 2

Area 3

Area 4

Area 5

total

1998

time allocation time used % of time used

17,136 15,076 88%

3,360 3,842 114%

0 0 -

3,360 3,736 1.11%

5,712 4,955 87%

29,568 27,609 93%

1999

time allocation time used % of time used

11,481 10,237 89%

3,360 3,767 112%

0 0 -

3,057 3,213 1.05%

5,198 4,973 96%

23,096 22,190 96%

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Commercial catches of Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson) are mainly obtained between May and October, by fishers operating from Geraldton through to the NT border. Limited catches are also made through summer by fishers operating in the Pilbara region. The recreational fishery extends as far south as Geographe Bay, where fish may be captured between January and May. The main method for capturing Spanish mackerel is by trolling baits and lures, with up to seven lines trolled at a time. Baits and lures drifted or cast from an anchored or drifting boat are also used to target mackerel, whilst incidental catches may occur when using handlines and droplines. Commercial fishing for Spanish mackerel was reported by 75 licensed fishing boats during 1999 (21% of the total wetline fleet for 1999). Most of these catches were made opportunistically by fishers who operate within other fisheries, and at present there are only about 10 fishers who specifically target mackerel. Owing to concerns over increased catches and anecdotal evidence to suggest that the species may be over-fished, an interim management plan (IMP) is currently in preparation. This plan is designed to restrict the fishery to dedicated mackerel fishers who meet certain fishing history and catch criteria. Each of these fishers should receive a transferable permit to fish for Spanish mackerel that will be renewable on a yearly basis. The capture of Spanish mackerel by nonpermit-holders will be considered bycatch and subject to tight restrictions. The IMP will be in place for up to five years while a stock assessment of the fishery is completed and more formal management arrangements are developed. In addition to the IMP, the capture of Spanish mackerel by commercial and recreational fishers is also subject to a minimum legal size, which was increased on 21 December 1999 from 75 to 90 cm total length to reflect the estimated size at sexual maturity for females (based on data from Queensland). A recreational bag limit of four fish per angler per day is also in place to provide further protection to the stock. RESEARCH SUMMARY In 1998, a joint WA/NT/Qld FRDC-funded research project to determine the stock structure of Spanish mackerel in these States commenced, using genetic markers, stable isotope ratios and parasitic fauna. In 1999 a second FRDCfunded project began aimed at determining the status of Spanish mackerel stocks in WA waters. During 2000/2001 the main focus of this research will be to gather biological information on Spanish mackerel. A preliminary evaluation of the status of Spanish mackerel stocks has been undertaken using the CAESS records provided by industry to Fisheries WA, and from interviews with commercial and recreational fishers and fish processors. In order to improve the catch and effort data for the fishery a volunteer logbook scheme will be initiated in 2000. Results from the stock assessment should be available at the conclusion of the current project in June 2002. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Bioregion - North Coast

Spanish Mackerel Stocks

Spanish Mackerel Stock Status Report Prepared by M. Mackie Main Features Stock assessment complete: Not assessed Exploitation status: Not assessed Breeding stock levels: Not assessed Previous catch projections for year 1999: Not applicable Catch current season (1999): Total 336.7 tonnes Kimberley 170.4 tonnes Pilbara 93.9 tonnes West Coast 72.4 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: Total $1,750,000 Kimberley $828,000 Pilbara $508,000 West Coast $414,000 Acceptable catch range next year (2000): Kimberley 150-200 tonnes Pilbara 60-100 tonnes West Coast 50-90 tonnes Recreational component (1999): Kimberley approx. 20 tonnes Pilbara approx. 25 tonnes West Coast approx. 35 tonnes Boundaries and Access The Spanish mackerel fishery may be divided into three sectors based on overall catches, fishing methods, and likely boundaries of the IMP. Kimberley sector: The use of dories (5-6.5 m dinghies) is restricted to this sector, which extends east of longitude 120ºE to the NT border. Dories troll two to three lines and work to a motherboat that is about 20 m in length. Fishing gear used in this sector is relatively heavy (8-10 mm rope with a 200+ kg mono line and wire trace), crews number between three and five, and fishing trips generally last between one and three weeks. Mackerel captured in this sector are usually filleted, boxed and frozen. However, in an effort to increase the quality (and value) of the catch, a carrier boat licence was issued in 1999 and should commence operation in 2001. This boat will be used to transport fresh, iced fish to Broome for sale overseas. Pilbara sector: This sector extends from longitude 114ºE to 120ºE. Vessels used in this area are between 9 and 15 m in length (no dories), with one to two crew

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

71

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - North Coast

using 180 kg mono line and wire trace. In recent years the main catches from this sector have come from the Port Hedland area. Fishing trips usually last less than a week, and the product is trunked, brined, and sold locally or sent to Perth markets. West coast sector: This sector extends south of NorthWest Cape. Vessels used in this area are between 7 and 15 m in length and are crewed by one to two persons for trips lasting one to five days. Gear used is rod and reel with 20-30 kg line and wire trace. Fish caught by Carnarvon- and Quobba-based fishers are usually kept whole in brine for export, whilst fish landed at other ports are usually trunked and sold locally or sent to Perth markets. Most of the catch for this sector comes from the Gascoyne region with few commercial catches made south of Geraldton. Annual Production Main fishing method Trolling. Landings Annual catches in the Kimberley sector rose slowly between 1978 and 1990, before a jump in catches from 50.6 tonnes in 1990 to 168.9 tonnes in 1991 when two of the main present-day operators entered the fishery (Spanish Mackerel Figure 1, Spanish Mackerel Table 1). From 1991, average catches increased in this sector, reaching a peak of 235.1 tonnes in 1997, but have since dropped to 170.4 tonnes in 1999. Catches within the Pilbara sector have remained relatively steady since 1980 (Spanish Mackerel Figure 1, Spanish Mackerel Table 1). Catches in this sector peaked in 1984 at 138.2 tonnes, with 93.9 tonnes caught in 1999. Catches in the west coast sector peaked in 1987 at 124.4 tonnes before dropping to a low in 1991 of 19.5 tonnes (Spanish Mackerel Figure 1, Spanish Mackerel Table 1), but have increased steadily in recent years to 72.4 tonnes in 1999. Monthly catches vary substantially each year due to the seasonal migration of most mackerel into and away from coastal waters. In the Kimberley sector 81.7% of the pooled catch for the period 1990-1999 was taken between June and October, with a peak in August of 20.8%. In the Pilbara sector for the same period, 72.1% of the catch was taken between May and September (peak of 21.5% in August), while in the west coast sector 80.2% of the catch was taken between May and August (peak of 30.2% in July). These data show that Spanish mackerel are generally caught earlier in the southern region and later in the northern region of the State. Annual catches of other species of mackerel, including the grey or broad-barred mackerel (Scomberomorus semifasciatus), school mackerel (S. queenslandicus), spotted mackerel (S. munroi) and shark mackerel (Grammatorcynus bicarinatus), are shown in Spanish Mackerel Table 1. These species are usually captured while the fishers are targeting Spanish mackerel. Grey mackerel are sometimes captured in large numbers but are usually present in the fishery for only one or two months each year. This species makes up approximately 80% of

72

the ‘other mackerel’ catch, whilst the school and shark mackerel species make up approximately 7% each. Annual fluctuations in the catch of other mackerel are thus mainly due to variability in the capture of grey mackerel. In 1999 the capture of other mackerel was high in the west coast sector (77.6 tonnes) compared with previous years for this sector, and also by comparison with catches in the Kimberley (27.8 tonnes) and the Pilbara (10.1 tonnes) for the same period. Catches in the latter sectors were unusually low in 1999. Note that the conversion factors used to convert landed weights (filleted, trunked and gutted/gilled weights) to live (whole) weight of Spanish mackerel in this report are based on length and weight data obtained during the stock assessment project. These weights may differ from (and are more accurate than) those recorded in previous publications, which were based on approximated conversion factors. Weights for other mackerel species in this report are also based on the conversion factors used for Spanish mackerel. Catches of grey mackerel will be recorded separately from other mackerel species in the CAESS database from 2000. Fishing effort The annual number of boats recording catches of Spanish mackerel has varied substantially since 1978, from 2 to 22 boats in the Kimberley sector (13 in 1999), 12 to 35 boats in the Pilbara sector (14 in 1999), and 44 to 133 boats in the west coast sector (48 in 1999). The monthly pattern of fishing effort is similar to that for catches: 70.3% of the annual fishing effort (days per month in which Spanish mackerel were captured) by all vessels within the Kimberley sector for the period 1990-1999 (data pooled) was expended between June and October, with a peak of 16.2% in August. In the Pilbara sector for the same period, 68.9% of effort occurred from June to October (peak of 19.7% in August), whilst in the west coast sector 72.4% of effort occurred between April and August (peak of 17.7% in July). Catch rate Analysis of catch per effort is complicated by the fact that many fishers who catch Spanish mackerel do not normally target them, and thus the effort they expend doing so is likely to be combined with the effort spent catching other species. The catch rate of vessels known to target Spanish mackerel is therefore used to estimate catch rates of all vessels in the fishery in the following analysis. Catch rates (kg/day) in the Kimberley sector rose sharply between 1989 and 1990 and reached a peak of 549 kg/day in 1994 (Spanish Mackerel Figure 2). Catch rates in this sector have since remained between 360 and 510 kg/day, with 436 kg/day captured in 1999. In the Pilbara, catch rates have varied from 213 to 430 kg/day between 1989 and 1998, with a sharp rise to 545 kg/day recorded in 1999. Catch rates in the west coast region have been relatively steady since 1989, with 158 kg/day captured in 1999. Stock Assessment A formal assessment of the stock status will be undertaken as data accumulate over the next three years.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Acceptable catch ranges for the 2000 season are broad because of uncertainty associated with implementation of the interim management plan. Recreational Component Data are currently unavailable for the recreational catch in the Kimberley and Pilbara sectors, although it is likely to be relatively low compared with the commercial catch given the high values for the latter and low population densities. This is particularly so for the Kimberley sector, where the recreational catch may be approximately 10% of the commercial catch. High recreational fishing effort in Dampier and areas near Onslow mean that the Pilbara recreational catch may be 25% of the commercial catch for this sector. Some data for the west coast sector are available (Sumner, Williamson & Malseed, in prep.), indicating that recreational catches for Shark Bay/ Carnarvon during 1998/99 were 21.4 tonnes, or 33.5% of the commercial catch for the same area. Similar statistics for other areas are lacking, although it is likely that in certain areas, such as Exmouth, Kalbarri and Perth, the recreational catch is substantially higher than the commercial catch. In areas such as Geraldton and Shark Bay the recreational catch is expected to be lower than the commercial catch. For the purpose of this report, the recreational catch for the west coast sector is estimated to be 50% of the commercial catch for that sector.

mackerel fishing will be introduced in 2000, which should provide more accurate and relevant catch and effort data for this fishery. This information will, in turn, be used to monitor the status of the fishery and, with proper consultation with fishers, to manage the fishery.

Bioregion - North Coast

Breeding Stock Levels No specific data are available.

The recreational fishery for Spanish mackerel also requires assessment, as this is a growing sector and the schooling behaviour of this species makes it vulnerable to over-fishing. The species also has low tolerance to capture because of the energy expended during capture and the type of fishing gear that is usually used (ganged hooks). Consequently, many individuals that are returned to the water may not survive. This is particularly pertinent to the recreational fishery where the fish are often ‘played’ using light line and are exhausted when landed. The usefulness of a minimum size for this species may therefore be limited. Another important issue in the Spanish mackerel fishery is the high loss rate of hooked mackerel to sharks. This is a problem that should be considered in future management plans, as it may account for up to 80% of the mackerel captured by fishers (based on discussions with commercial and recreational fishers). An average loss rate of 50% is possible in the recreational fishery, but less for commercial operators who usually move on if sharks are a problem. Approximately half of the Spanish mackerel captured by Fisheries WA research staff at Dampier and Carnarvon for tagging and release were also lost to sharks. Ultimately, this means that the current bag limit of four fish per person per day may often include the mortality of 10 or more fish and may therefore need to be reviewed.

Product Value for Year 1999 Prices for Spanish mackerel vary according to market and time of year. Fish caught in the Kimberley sector are mainly filleted and sold to Perth processors for approximately $8/kg. In the Pilbara sector, the fish are usually trunked and sold locally or to Perth markets. Prices for this product vary between $6 and $10.50/kg, depending on the time of year and subsequent demand (average of about $6.50/kg). In the west coast sector, mackerel may be exported whole through Carnarvon for about $6/kg (whole fish), or sold to Perth processors for about $5.50/kg (trunk weight). Environmental Risk Assessment Fishing for Spanish mackerel is undertaken by specialised troll lines, has little impact other than on the target species, and involves relatively little bycatch. Fishing for this top-end predator may result in increased survival of prey species, although this is probably limited due to the likely increase in numbers of competing predators such as sharks. General Comments Spanish mackerel and associated species are important commercial and recreational species, and implementation of the interim management plan will provide timely regulation of the commercial fishery that is needed for the long-term conservation of this species. Future management of the commercial fishery will require ongoing cooperation between Fisheries Research staff and mackerel fishers to ensure that the required biological and fishery data are obtained. In particular, a new logbook that is specific to

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

73

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries 500,000 Kimberley

Catch (kg)

450,000

Pilbara

400,000

West Coast

350,000

Total

300,000 250,000 200,000 150,000 100,000 50,000 0 1979

1981

1983

1985

1987

1989

1991

1993

1995

1997

1999

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

Year

SPANISH MACKEREL FIGURE 1 Annual catch of Spanish mackerel in Western Australia.

600 Kimberley

Catch rate (kg/day)

500

Pilbara West Coast

400 300 200 100 0 1989

1990

1991

1992

1993

1994

Year

SPANISH MACKEREL FIGURE 2 Estimated catch per unit effort (kg/day) for vessels catching more than one tonne of Spanish mackerel within the Spanish mackerel fishery.

74

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - North Coast

SPANISH MACKEREL TABLE 1 Catches of Spanish and other mackerel within each sector. The main species included under ‘other mackerel’ are grey mackerel (Scomberomorus semifasciatus), school mackerel (S. queenslandicus), spotted mackerel (S. munroi), and shark mackerel (Grammatorcynus bicarinatus).

Year

Spanish mackerel (t) Kimberley

Other mackerel (t)

Pilbara

West Coast

Total

Kimberley

Pilbara

West Coast

Total

1980

2.8

56.8

39.7

99.3

-

8.7

2.2

10.9

1981

28.8

88.0

91.6

208.4

2.0

0.4

8.8

11.2

1982

31.1

88.8

80.8

200.7

3.3

3.7

17.6

24.6

1983

50.2

124.6

77.6

252.4

-

2.2

17.9

20.1

1984

25.7

138.2

85.8

249.7

0.4

1.2

5.1

6.7

1985

76.7

121.2

75.1

273.0

13.2

4.3

14.4

31.9

1986

39.2

71.6

86.7

197.5

16.7

11.4

19.4

47.5

1987

40.8

88.8

124.4

254.0

12.3

2.4

9.9

24.6

1988

62.2

48.1

91.6

201.9

59.0

15.7

37.2

111.9

1989

49.2

63.4

56.8

169.4

20.4

32.5

70.8

123.7

1990

50.6

64.7

51.7

167.0

25.8

99.9

49.8

175.2

1991

168.9

113.0

19.5

301.4

51.1

50.6

27.9

129.6

1992

164.9

70.0

20.4

255.3

37.7

31.7

23.9

93.3

1993

196.0

94.4

35.6

326.0

28.6

37.2

19.4

85.2

1994

208.3

93.5

32.9

334.7

69.1

10.0

12.7

91.8

1995

180.2

90.0

43.2

313.4

31.5

13.3

22.2

67.0

1996

187.3

62.7

80.8

330.8

35.8

30.6

30.6

97.0

1997

235.1

100.5

93.9

429.5

67.2

31.7

26.0

124.9

1998

213.9

89.3

67.2

370.4

26.4

18.4

39.6

84.4

1999

170.4

93.9

72.4

336.7

27.8

10.1

77.6

115.5

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

75

Bioregion - North Coast

Commercial Fisheries North Coast Shark Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Western Australian-controlled sector (officially titled the North Coast Shark Fishery) is managed by a notice implemented under section 43 of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994. This notice was first gazetted in May 1993 and covers the taking of shark in all waters off the north coast, from longitude 114º06′E to 123º45′E with longline, and from 114º06′E to the WA/NT border with dropline. The taking of shark by longline and gillnet between 123º45′E and the WA/NT border is controlled by a Joint Authority between Western Australia and the Commonwealth. This sector is officially titled the Joint Authority Northern Shark Fishery. In light of the jurisdictional and areal changes to this fishery resulting from the most recent Offshore Constitutional Settlement arrangements in February 1995, Fisheries WA plans to implement a management strategy with the main aims being: •

shark species sustainability;



minimisation of bycatch of non-target species; and



consideration of the issues related to shark finning.

There is a lack of knowledge regarding the dynamics of the target species in these fisheries, and the lack of information in this area is a direct result of low fishing activity. The paucity of knowledge on northern shark species is not a problem unique to Western Australia, and to address this concern Fisheries WA is part of a cooperative approach to shark research across northern Australia that includes CSIRO and the Northern Territory and Queensland fisheries agencies. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Limited fisheries compliance activities were directed at these fisheries in 1999/2000. In view of their overall low level of production, they are likely to continue to have a low priority. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research to monitor the status of the northern shark stocks has been undertaken as an extension of the south and west coast shark research project. A three-year research project, partly funded by the FRDC and beginning in July 2000, will provide an improved understanding of these fisheries and of northern shark stocks generally. The following status report has been prepared based on CAESS data from industry and a general knowledge of tropical shark stocks from the scientific literature.

76

North Coast Shark Fisheries Status Report Prepared by R. McAuley and M. Moran Main Features Stock assessment complete: No Exploitation status: No assessment Breeding stock levels: No assessment Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: Not made Catch current season (1998/99): Western Australian area 257.9 tonnes (shark and ray only) 32.3 tonnes (scalefish) Joint Authority area 18.0 tonnes (shark and ray only) 0.2 tonnes (scalefish) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: Approximately $690,000 from the two managed sectors (approx. $1 million from the fishery overall, including estimated value of shark fins) Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): Not available Boundaries and Access The management boundaries of the north coast shark fisheries depend upon the type of gear used. Western Australia controls dropline fishing from longitude 114º06′E to the WA/NT border (129ºE) and longline fishing from longitude 114º06′E to 123º45′E. Longline and gillnet fishing from longitude 123º45′E to the WA/NT border is managed by Joint Authority between Western Australia and the Commonwealth. Gillnet fishing is not permitted west of longitude 123º45′E or within 12 nautical miles of the coast east of longitude 123º45′E. A total of 13 fishers have licensed access to one or more of these zones. In previous editions of this report, the catch of shark by the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery has also been considered. Following clarification of the licensing of several vessels, the quantity of shark caught by this latter fishery is now thought to have been overestimated by the inclusion of catch from vessels not actually part of the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery. From now on, this status report will note all shark caught in northern Western Australian waters, whether by the two specific shark fisheries, as bycatch from other managed fisheries, or on open west coast fishing licences. (Exceptions to this are the Pilbara Fish Trawl and Pilbara Trap Managed Fisheries, which report their shark catches separately.)

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Environmental Risk Assessment Not available.

Main fishing method Dropline, longline and gillnet. Landings Western Australian area: Shark and scalefish 290.3 tonnes (by North Coast Shark Fishery operators only) Joint Authority area: Shark and scalefish

Bioregion - North Coast

Annual Production

18.2 tonnes (by Joint Authority Northern Shark Fishery operators only)

Non-specific/open west coast catch from east of NW Cape (114ºE) to the WA/NT border (129ºE): Shark and ray 53.4 tonnes

General Comments A large portion of the shark catch from the State’s northern sector is taken by vessels fishing for other target species. This factor, in addition to the multispecies nature of the tropical shark fishery, makes formal stock assessment processes particularly difficult. However, a new research project, funded in part by the FRDC and aimed at conducting a stock assessment of thickskin (sandbar) sharks, Carcharhinus plumbeus, will improve understanding of several northern shark stocks as well as providing a clearer picture of the shark catch by other fisheries.

Other limited entry fisheries’ bycatch from east of NW Cape (114ºE) to the WA/NT border (129ºE): Shark and ray 15.3 tonnes Although catches of shark are reported by species, the categories used in CAESS, and fishers’ ability to accurately distinguish species, are insufficient to reflect fully the range of species taken in these diverse fisheries. As a result, catch by species is not reported here, though it is known that thickskin (sandbar) shark is a major component of the catch, particularly in the WA-managed area. Fishing effort There are 13 vessels with specific licensed access to these stocks. In addition, 18 non-managed fishery (open west coast) vessels also reported shark catch in CAESS returns, the majority of which was caught by longline or gillnet. Catch rate Not calculated. Stock Assessment No assessment. Breeding Stock Levels No assessment. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) Not available. Product Value for Year 1998/99 The overall value of shark catches in the two sectors making up the managed shark fishery is approximately $690,000 (or $780,000 including the catch from other fisheries). This figure does not include the value of shark fins, which are not reported on catch returns. Fins from the northern shark fisheries are generally larger than those from the southern shark fisheries and command a higher price per kilogram. At approximately 5% of live weight and a value of $40/kg, the estimated fin production value for these fisheries could be in excess of $200,000, taking the estimated total value of the catch to around $1 million.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

77

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries South Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview Management arrangements in the South Coast Purse Seine Fishery were dominated by the after-effects of the 1998/99 mortality event, believed to be caused by a Herpesvirus. The decline in stock levels resulting from the virus has led to zero quotas being set for three of the four zones in the fishery in 2000/01. South Coast Estuarine Fishery issues have also been prominent with an ongoing review and a voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Scheme put in place. The salmon and herring fisheries have also been subject to voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Schemes. Other significant commercial fisheries in this bioregion harvest southern rock lobsters and deep-sea crabs, abalone, and shark and associated finfish, in both coastal and estuarine waters.

South Coast Rock Lobster Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Esperance Rock Lobster Managed Fishery: The Esperance Rock Lobster Managed Fishery has 11 vessels which operate between longitudes 120º and 125ºE, catching the southern rock lobster, Jasus edwardsii, and a small quantity of various deep-sea crabs. A maximum pot entitlement of 10 pots per metre applies to any boat and there is a restriction of 90 pots on the overall pot entitlement on any licence. Favourable rock lobster habitat supports a small but significant and relatively secure rock lobster fishery. Other south coast rock lobster fishing endorsements: In addition to the Esperance fishery, southern rock lobster and deep-sea crabs are also taken by vessels endorsed to fish for lobsters on the south coast outside the Esperance managed fishery zone. These vessels operate in two zones, catching predominantly southern rock lobster, although catches of western rock lobster, Panulirus cygnus, are also taken in the western part of the fishery, particularly in the area adjacent to the Windy Harbour/Augusta Rock Lobster Managed Fishery. Effort in these areas adjacent to the Esperance fishery is controlled by a limitation on the number of endorsements issued and constraints on the number of rock lobster pots that a boat may carry. However, the fluctuating nature of recruitment into the fishery and scarcity of favourable rock lobster habitat mean that this fishery tends to be exploited on an opportunistic basis in accordance with variations in available stock. The fishery does not lend itself to full-time specialist rock lobster fishing; instead, rock lobster fishing operations in these areas are generally part of more diversified fishing activities with the level of operation (pot lifts) and catch varying from year to year. Deep-sea crab stocks are thinly spread over the fishing grounds but exploitation rates are increasing. This is likely to result in catches that fluctuate widely from season to season, as fishable stocks are rapidly fished

78

down in times of abundance, and then rebound following periods where the scarcity of legal-size specimens makes it less economic to target them. Windy Harbour/Augusta Rock Lobster Managed Fishery: There are only two licensees in this fishery and the public disclosure of total catch data would breach the confidentiality policies of Fisheries WA by allowing one licensee to calculate the catch of the other. Accordingly, this catch data is included in the published total catch data of the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery. Both western and southern rock lobsters, together with small quantities of deep-sea crabs, are taken from this fishery. The fishery is located where the southern limits of the main population of western rock lobster and the western limits of the range of southern rock lobster meet. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY One prosecution brief was submitted for the south coast rock lobster fisheries in 1999/2000, indicating a reasonable level of compliance. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research in this sector involves assessing the current status of the stocks in the area based on commercial catch returns and information from south coast rock lobster fishermen. This information is reflected in the following status report. South Coast Rock Lobster Fisheries Status Report Prepared by R. Melville-Smith Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited, with some areas locally depleted Breeding stock levels: Adequate, noting that breeding stock levels in Western Australia are not critical to the stock Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: 50-80 tonnes Catch current season (1998/99): 76 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: $1.6 million Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 50-80 tonnes Boundaries and Access The boundaries of the Esperance Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (ERLMF) are between longitudes 120ºE (near

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Boundaries for the neighbouring southern rock lobster fishery zones are defined as: Great Australian Bight (GAB) zone: being the Australian Fishing Zone adjacent to the south coast of Western Australia, from longitude 125ºE to longitude 129ºE to the 200 m depth contour. Albany zone: being the waters of the Australian Fishing Zone adjacent to the south coast of Western Australia, from longitude 116ºE to longitude 120º E to the 200 m depth contour. In 1998/99, 31 vessels were endorsed to fish in the GAB and Albany zones. Endorsements have been frozen since October 1994 and fishermen without ongoing catch history have been asked to show cause why their related rock lobster pot entitlements should not be cancelled. While the agency’s intention is to reduce the number of pot entitlements as the opportunity arises, it is recognised that the Albany/GAB zones will never be a significant rock lobster fishery and will be best managed as an adjunct to fishers’ other diverse operations. Annual Production Main fishing method Rock lobster pots. Landings A catch of 40 tonnes of southern rock lobsters was taken in the ERLMF in 1998/99, a decrease of 23% on the catch made in the 1997/98 season (52 tonnes). The combined catch for the GAB and Albany southern rock lobster fishery zones in 1998/99 was 36 tonnes, an increase of 20% on the 1997/98 figure (30 tonnes). Catches in the western sector of the open access area decreased from 11 to 6 tonnes, but in the eastern sector of the fishery catches increased from 19 to 29 tonnes. Fishing effort The ERLMF experienced an 11% decrease in nominal fishing effort levels from 62,500 pot lifts in 1997/98 to 55,500 pot lifts in 1998/99. Total effort for the Albany and GAB zones in the 1998/99 season was 93,000 pot lifts, a increase of 4,400 pot lifts (5%) on the previous season’s 88,600 pot lifts. Fishing effort decreased in the Albany zone, from 29,100 pot lifts in 1997/98 to 21,600 pot lifts in 1998/99, and increased in the GAB zone, from 59,400 pot lifts in 1997/98 to 71,600 pot lifts in 1998/99. Effort figures are confounded in the Albany zone, because an unknown amount of the effort recorded there may have targeted deep-water crabs rather than lobsters. Catch rate The catch per unit of fishing effort for the 1998/99 season in the ERLMF decreased by 14%, from 0.84 kg/pot lift in 1997/98 to 0.72 kg/pot lift in 1998/99. The combined catch per unit of fishing effort for the GAB and Albany zones in the 1998/99 season was 0.38 kg/pot lift, a 12%

Bioregion - South Coast

Hopetoun) and 125ºE (near Point Culver) seawards to the 200 nautical mile Australian Fishing Zone outer limit. In 1998/99, 11 vessels were licensed to fish in the area.

increase from the 0.34 kg/pot lift for the 1997/98 season. Catch rates decreased from the 1997/98 value in the Albany sector of the open access fishery by 24%, from 0.38 to 0.29 kg/pot lift, but increased in the GAB by 32%, from 0.31 to 0.41 kg/pot lift. Stock Assessment Indications from production modelling of the Western Australian portion of the southern rock lobster resource, and from a postal survey in which commercial fishers were asked to quantify the amount of available ground colonised by lobsters, suggest that the western and eastern zones are not suited to southern lobster colonisation. The survey of fishers showed that the western and eastern zones only have about 10% of the amount of ground available for lobster colonisation compared with what can be found in the optimal fishing areas inside the ERLMF. Production modelling results have been supportive of these subjective assessments in that the unfished biomass estimates for the two outer zones were indicated by the model to be substantially smaller than those for the ERLMF prior to exploitation. The Esperance area has a long history of sustained exploitation (South Coast Rock Lobster Figure 1) and model results, though inconclusive, would suggest that the virgin biomass for this part of the fishery was substantial (of the order of 600-1,000 tonnes). Stock assessments for the GAB and Albany zones show that sustainable yields in both zones are small and, at the fishing levels of recent years, both areas have been rapidly depleted. Should the rates of exploitation that have been experienced in recent times persist in the future, they will probably lead to lobster fishing in the GAB and Albany zones becoming uneconomic. The unsustainable fishing pressure in the neighbouring zones should not affect the ERLMF, as recruitment to that zone is not considered to be dependent on egg production from Western Australian waters. Breeding Stock Levels The stock of southern rock lobster in Western Australian waters is at the western edge of its distribution. Puerulus settlement to this region is probably derived from the bulk of the stock in South Australian, Tasmanian and Victorian waters and, as such, the broodstock in Western Australian waters probably makes an insignificant contribution to the southern rock lobster larval pool. Available evidence would suggest that recruitment may be sporadic and driven by large-scale environmental factors rather than localised breeding stock levels. Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) 50-80 tonnes. Product Value for Year 1998/99 $1.6 million. Environmental Risk Assessment Rock lobster potting has a very low impact on the largely granite habitat over which the fishery operates. The design of the pots is such that little bycatch occurs (aside from the secondary target of deep-water crab species), and the pots do not ‘ghost fish’ if lost. As the

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

79

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - South Coast

rock lobsters and crabs taken represent a very small biomass, any impact of fishing on the general food chain is expected to be minimal. General Comments If the management objective was to fish the eastern and western zones to economically viable levels, then current effort levels would need to be drastically reduced. However, it has been accepted that reducing fishing effort in these zones to such levels is unattainable in the medium term and the agency has therefore adopted a policy whereby it will reduce the number of pot entitlements as the opportunity arises and manage the fishery as an adjunct to fishers’ other activities. The ERLMF is a more productive fishery than the outer zones. It would appear to be reasonably stable in the short to medium term, but landings are in the upper bounds of what is predicted to be sustainable by the model. There are indications that the catch per unit of effort (CPUE) may be declining and these trends will need to be closely monitored in the future.

70,000 60,000

Esperance Managed Fishery Albany Zone

Catch (kg)

50,000

Great Australian Bight Zone

40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 75/76

79/80

83/84

87/88

91/92

Season

SOUTH COAST ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 1 Seasonal catches of southern rock lobster by management area, 1975/76 to 1998/99.

80

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

95/96

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The Abalone Managed Fishery exploits three abalone species: Greenlip abalone (Haliotis laevigata), brownlip abalone (Haliotis conicopora) and Roe’s abalone (Haliotis roei). The large greenlip and brownlip abalone are confined to the lower south-west and south coasts of the State, while Roe’s abalone are found in commercial quantities from the South Australian border to Shark Bay, although they are not uniformly distributed throughout this range. Prior to 1 April 1999, the fishery was divided into three zones. In Zone 1, licence holders took greenlip, brownlip and Roe’s abalone east of Shoal Cape. In Zone 2, licensees took the same species between Shoal Cape and Busselton jetty. In Zone 3, divers were only licensed to take Roe’s abalone. The management arrangements in place at that time restricted the number of licence holders in the fishery and imposed minimum legal shell sizes, total allowable catches in each zone, and individual quotas. Special rules also applied to commercial fishers who fished in the metropolitan area of the fishery (Moore River to Cape Bouvard). On 31 March 1999 a major amendment to the Abalone Managed Fishery management plan was implemented. The notable changes brought about by the amendment included a change to the licensing period, with the result that all licence holders now operate within the same licensing period, i.e. 1 April in any year to 31 March in the following year. Also, ‘zonal management’ changed to ‘area management’, with the number of managed areas increasing from three to eight. Each area is allocated an area catch limit, with the sum of the combined area catches equal to the total allowable catch (TAC) for the fishery. Each managed fishery licence is endorsed with a number of tradeable units of entitlement to a specific area, which may be permanently or temporarily traded between existing licence holders or permanently sold to new licence holders subject to minimum holding requirements. Each licence in the fishery must be permanently endorsed with a minimum unit holding of 800 units for Roe’s abalone and 450 units for greenlip/brownlip abalone. Following implementation of the amendment to the management plan, one unit of entitlement became equivalent to 5 kg of abalone in any area for the 1999/2000 quota year. The new arrangements also mean that commercial divers fishing in the metropolitan area must now cease fishing two weeks prior to the commencement of the recreational abalone fishing season and must not fish at all during the weeks that span the recreational fishing season. However, fishing can recommence on the Monday following the closure of the recreational fishing season. (Fishing on weekends and public holidays in the metropolitan area remains prohibited.)

Bioregion - South Coast

Abalone Managed Fishery

Divers and processors are required to provide daily catch and disposal records with details of all abalone landed and consigned in Western Australia to facilitate catch monitoring and enforcement. Processors are also required to lodge returns which provide Fisheries WA with details of all abalone received. A combined management/research and industry meeting was held in November 1999 to discuss management and research issues of concern to Fisheries WA and members of the Abalone Managed Fishery and industry. The Abalone Management Advisory Committee (AbMAC) met six times during 1999/2000. Chaired by Mr Ian Taylor, the AbMAC provides advice to the Minister for Fisheries on matters relevant to the Abalone Managed Fishery. It also publishes a newsletter for public distribution outlining AbMAC business. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance issues in the commercial sector have increased during the past year, with reports of breaches in 1999/2000 of management rules relating to annual quota management and minimum size limits. Poaching activity by unlicensed operators running illegal commercial operations continues to be a significant issue within this fishery. These operations have extended to the illegal take and shipment of product overseas and interstate. Strategies employed by the agency over the past few years, which include focusing the Serious Offences Unit on this particular problem, have again resulted in a number of successful abalone poaching apprehensions The media attention given to these high fines and penalties has ensured that the general public is aware of the activities of fish thieves, and serves as a deterrent to other thieves. The development of a uniform national approach to compliance monitoring of the abalone industry by fisheries agencies around Australia will also assist in addressing this problem. A National Docketing System is now operational for abalone across all other abalone-producing States. Western Australia is currently developing a similar audit and monitoring system. RESEARCH SUMMARY The 1999 quota period saw amendments made to the abalone fishery legislation to allocate species-specific quotas to a series of ‘new’ zones. Prior to the 1999 quota period the fishery was divided into three zones. The fishery is now separated by species into a greenlip abalone fishery, brownlip abalone fishery and Roe’s abalone fishery, with transferable units of quota allocated over eight areas throughout the State (Abalone Figure 1). Although the TAC in each area remains similar to what was previously taken when the fishery was divided into three zones, in some cases it is difficult to compare 1999 catch rates with historical data.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

81

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - South Coast

The new management plan also introduces individual greenlip and brownlip quotas. Previously brownlip abalone, which have a lower value than greenlip abalone, were usually caught as incidental catch while fishing greenlip abalone. The separate quotas may result in an increased effort while divers search specifically for brownlip abalone habitat. An advantage of the new arrangement is that fisheries managers will be able to manipulate quotas more accurately to reflect changes in the abundance of particular abalone stocks.

projects. In each of the eight areas, the fishing effort required to achieve the catch is examined annually to ensure that the quota level is sustainable. The quota period for all areas in the first season of the new management arrangements was 1 April 1999 to 31 March 2000. (Note: for simplicity data will be reported against the quota period for the year in which it began. For example, for the 1999/2000 quota period, data will be reported as taken in the 1999 season.) The approximate total value of the Western Australian commercial abalone fishery in 1999 was $13 million. The following status report utilises the research findings for the greenlip, brownlip and Roe’s fishery from the eight fishing areas.

Basic research monitoring for the eight abalone catch areas is undertaken annually utilising industry data from the daily catch records, information from processors, fishers’ monthly returns and data collected during specific research

SA Border

NT Border

Area 4

Area 8 Moore River

Area 7 Area 6

Cape Bouvard Busselton Jetty

Point Culver Shoal Cape

Cape Leeuwin

Area 3

Area 5

Area 2

Area 1

Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3

ABALONE FIGURE 1 General map showing old zonal arrangements and new area management regime of the commercial abalone fisheries of Western Australia.

82

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - South Coast

Greenlip and Brownlip Abalone Status Report Prepared by K. Friedman and C. Syers

Fishing effort Total effort for 1999 was 1,121 days fished for greenlip and brownlip abalone.

Main Features Catch rate In 1999 the catch rate was 185.8 kg whole weight per diver day (68.5 kg meat weight per diver day).

Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited

Stock Assessment Presently greenlip and brownlip abalone stocks are assessed by analysing industry data from the daily catch records, information from processors, fishers’ monthly returns and data collected during specific research projects.

Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch and effort projections for year 1999: First year of new management plan: Greenlip abalone 189.75 tonnes (whole weight) (quota) Brownlip abalone 28 tonnes (whole weight) (quota) Effort not projected Catch and effort current season (1999): 1,121 days fished for: Greenlip abalone 180.62 tonnes (whole weight) Brownlip abalone 27.67 tonnes (whole weight) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $9.1 million Acceptable catch and effort range next season (2000): Greenlip abalone 200.75 tonnes (whole weight) if full quota is fished Brownlip abalone 34.87 tonnes (whole weight) if full quota is fished 1,110-1,520 diver days for combined species Recreational component (1999): Believed to be less than 5% of commercial catch Boundaries and Access The greenlip/brownlip abalone fisheries include Areas 1, 2 and 3, which extend from the SA/WA border to Busselton jetty (Abalone Figure 1 left). The quota period for all areas was 1 April 1999 to 31 March 2000. Annual Production Main fishing method Diving. Landings Catches are currently controlled by quotas, with the TAC for the 1999 quota year being 189.75 tonnes whole weight (69 tonnes meat weight) for greenlip abalone and 28 tonnes whole weight (11.2 tonnes meat weight) for brownlip abalone. The greenlip catch was 180.62 tonnes whole weight (65.68 tonnes meat weight) and brownlip catch was 27.67 tonne whole weight (11.07 tonnes meat weight) for the 1999 season (Abalone Table 1).

Industry reports suggest significant isolated populations of stunted greenlip abalone stocks in Area 1 which limit harvests in this part of the fishery. Fisheries Research conducted limited research surveys in this region during 1974 and 1994, and plans to further assess the standing stock in Area 1 during the 2000 season with industry co-operation. In Area 2, average greenlip meat weights have remained stable since 1995 following previous concerns over declining meat weights between 1989 and 1994 (identified in last year’s report). The recent improvement of this situation has been partially attributed to relieving fishing pressure (and effort) from traditionally fished stocks by taking close to three tonnes of greenlip (meat weight) from ‘stunted’ stocks (under direct supervision by Fisheries Research) from a previously unfished area at Point Malcolm. The controlled harvesting of product within stunted stocks has proved to be a valuable stock management tool. Anecdotal reports from divers indicate that stocks of brownlip abalone in Area 2 are in good shape. This is supported by consistent increases in average meat weights of brownlip abalone in catch data. Stocks of greenlip abalone in Area 3 have recovered as a result of a combination of temporary quota reductions, closures/openings of the most productive locations (Augusta) and raising minimum size limits (by industry agreement). Information on brownlip abalone stocks in Area 3 is limited as divers in the past have primarily targeted greenlip abalone. However, observations from industry divers suggest that there are substantial areas which are not traditionally fished which could contain under-exploited stocks of brownlip abalone. The quota for brownlip abalone in Area 3 for the 2000 season has been increased by two tonnes. Research will be monitoring brownlip catches closely to see whether divers actively target new brownlip habitat, and whether meat weights remain high or increase as a result of finding new habitat. Breeding Stock Levels The breeding stock for both species is considered adequate, noting that the legal minimum size is well above the size at maturity. A new finer-scale reporting system initiated by Fisheries Research in 2000 should give a clearer picture of localised depletion of stocks, which was difficult to assess with the previous 10 x 10 mile grid reporting system.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

83

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries Acceptable Catch and Effort Range Next Year (2000) To be fished at a historically sustainable level, the quota for greenlip/brownlip abalone should be taken within the five-year range (1994-1998) of 1,110-1,520 diver days. The mean (±SD) catch rate (based on total annual catch divided by days dived that year) within the five-year range was 158 ± 20 kg whole weight per day for greenlip/brownlip abalone. Although effort in number of days fished may vary due to variations in total catch in the more remote parts of the fishery, the season’s mean kg/day catch rates should not fall significantly below the average presented. Product Value for Year 1999 Estimated average prices were about $44/kg (whole weight) for both species or $120/kg (meat weight) for greenlip and $110/kg (meat weight) for brownlip abalone. On the basis of the average prices, the greenlip and brownlip abalone fishery was worth approximately $9.1 million in the 1999 season. Environmental Risk Assessment The commercial abalone fishery is stable, with extensive habitat for greenlip and brownlip abalone. Commercial

abalone diving is relatively benign in its effect on the environment. Abalone divers operate from small fishing vessels (generally < 9 m), taking small catches (generally < 400 kg/day) from a well dispersed fishery. Divers have the ability to target abalone of choice (species, sizes and quality of abalone) and do not inadvertently harvest any bycatch in their normal fishing activities. There is minimal direct impact on the sea floor and benthic fauna from the activity of divers, which occurs over a small proportion of the total abalone habitat of the Western Australian coastline. As a consequence of the relatively low exploitation rates and judicious targeting of the stock, it is considered unlikely that the fishery has any significant effect on the food chain in the habitat. Overall the fishery is considered to have minimal effect on the shelf ecosystem. General Comments A new industry catch reporting system, which is on a finer scale than previous catch report systems, has been initiated by Fisheries Research for all greenlip/brownlip abalone fishing areas in the 2000 season. This data will enable more effective assessment of these increasingly valuable stocks, and will improve the reliability of management in the future.

ABALONE TABLE 1 Greenlip and brownlip abalone catch and effort by quota period. Quota period

Greenlip TAC kg whole weight

Brownlip TAC kg whole weight

Greenlip caught kg whole weight

Brownlip caught kg whole weight

Combined catch kg whole weight

1990

126,500

0

114,414

18,768

133,182

809

1991

148,500

0

131,266

14,660

145,926

1,145

1992

192,500

0

175,054

30,285

205,339

1,284

1993

197,450

0

178,794

31,155

209,949

1,347

1994

200,750

0

177,166

32,223

209,389

1,522

1995

187,264

0

151,863

27,263

179,126

1,327

1996

189,750

0

176,668

21,933

198,601

1,113

1997

207,350

0

187,993

26,298

214,291

1,259

1998

200,750

0

187,644

22,198

209,842

1,246

1999

189,750

28,000

180,620

27,673

208,293

1,121

Notes 1. Data source: quota returns. 2. Standard conversion factors for meat weight to whole weight were 2.75 for greenlip abalone and 2.5 for brownlip abalone. 3. The length of quota period has varied with management changes, and for simplicity has been recorded against the nearest calendar year. 4. Greenlip/brownlip split in the TAC fixed for the first year in 1999. Previously the TAC was for the two species combined.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Diver days

Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes

Bioregion - South Coast

Roe’s Abalone Status Report Prepared by B. Hancock and K. Friedman

Stock Assessment Presently stocks of Roe’s abalone are assessed by analysing industry data from the daily catch records, information from processors, fishers’ monthly returns and data collected during specific research projects. The population structure has now been assessed through genetic analysis (gel electrophoresis). Results demonstrate moderate levels of connection between populations throughout the species distribution. This occurs despite mixing within each generation occurring on a scale of < 13 km. This means that although the majority of recruitment occurs as a local event on continuous reef complexes, there is sufficient gene flow between areas to allow Roe’s abalone to be dealt with on a State scale.

Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch and effort projections for year 1999: First year of new management plan: 126 tonnes (whole weight) Roe’s abalone Effort projection of 750-950 diver days Catch and effort current season (1999): Roe’s abalone 757 days fished for 108.3 tonnes (whole weight) Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $3.8 million Acceptable catch and effort range next season (2000): Roe’s abalone 740-990 diver days for 115.9 tonnes (whole weight) if full quota is fished Recreational component (1999): Metropolitan region catches (Area 7) presented on page 114. Catches in other areas believed to be less than 5% of commercial catch Boundaries and Access The Roe’s abalone fishery includes Areas 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and extends from the SA/WA border to the NT border, though commercial quantities of Roe’s abalone finish at Steep Point, Shark Bay (see Abalone Figure 1). Annual Production Main fishing method Diving. Landings Catches are currently controlled by quotas, with the TAC for the 1999 quota year being 126 tonnes (whole weight) for Roe’s abalone. The catch was 108.3 tonnes (whole weight) for the 1999 season after a voluntary reduction of 6 tonnes (Abalone Table 2). Fishing effort Total effort in 1999 was 757 diver days (dedicated Roe’s abalone divers only). Catch rate The Roe’s abalone catch rate in 1999 was 143 kg (whole weight) per diver day.

In general the stock assessment indicates that the Roe’s abalone fishery is in good condition. In 1999 there has been some concern at the condition of the commercial stocks at specific locations at the margins of the fishery. In Area 1 there was evidence of localised depletion of Roe’s abalone in the vicinity of the launch area at Twilight Cove. This concern has been somewhat allayed by an increase in the minimum size limit for Area 1, from 70 mm to 75 mm shell length. Although the abundance of Roe’s abalone is not of concern at other locations on the south coast, a portion of the quota consistently remains unfished due to the remoteness of the fishing locations and unpredictable nature of the weather (Area 1), or licensees from the former Zones 1 and 2 not effectively fishing their Roe’s allocation. This situation is less likely to occur next year as industry participants are likely to transfer unused quota units between fishers. In Area 8, the most northerly margin of the fishery, catch information and observations from divers suggested that the quota setting for 1999 was not sustainable due to losses of abalone as a result of environmental factors outside the control of the commercial fishery. These losses occurred in shallow water areas where unusually hot weather coincided with extreme low tides. A voluntary reduction in TAC from 30 tonnes to 24 tonnes was agreed upon by commercial fishermen during the quota period due to concerns that the quota was not sustainable. A further reduction to 20 tonnes has been set for the 2000 quota period. Breeding Stock Levels The breeding stock is considered adequate, noting that the legal minimum size (60 mm shell length) is well above the size at maturity. Additional protection is afforded by a higher legislated minimum length in certain areas, as well as a voluntary minimum of 70 mm around the coast, ensuring that even at locations where quotas are being reduced (e.g. Area 8) there is an adequate abundance of broodstock. Acceptable Catch and Effort Range for 2000 As a consequence of new management arrangements, particularly the removal of the daily catch limit in Area 7 (metropolitan area), the historical effort range is no longer applicable. A new estimation of the acceptable range for Area 7 has been calculated for this report by varying the 1999 catch rate by ±16.5%, the mean annual variation of catch rate (between 1994 and 1998) recorded within other areas of the fishery where Roe’s abalone are taken.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

85

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - South Coast

With the inclusion of this variation in catch rate for Area 7, the full quota for the Roe’s abalone fishery should be achieved between 740 and 990 days of fishing. Product Value for 1999 Quota Periods Estimated average prices were about $35/kg (whole weight) for Roe’s abalone. On the basis of the average prices the fishery was worth approximately $3.8 million.

minimal direct impact on the sea floor and benthic fauna from the activity of divers, which occurs over a small proportion of the total abalone habitat of the Western Australian coastline. As a consequence of the relatively low exploitation rates and judicious targeting of the stock, it is considered unlikely that the fishery has any significant effect on the food chain in the habitat. Overall the fishery is considered to have minimal effect on the shelf ecosystem.

Environmental Risk Assessment The commercial Roe’s abalone fishery is stable, with extensive habitat. Commercial abalone diving is relatively benign in its effect on the environment. Abalone divers operate from small fishing vessels (generally < 9m), taking small catches (generally < 200 kg whole weight/day) from a well dispersed fishery. Divers have the ability to target abalone of choice (size and quality of abalone) and do not inadvertently harvest any bycatch in their normal fishing activities. Divers are prohibited from harvesting from the reeftop where juvenile habitat predominates. There is

General Comments The 1999 quota period saw several major management changes within the metropolitan area (Area 7). The 100 kg maximum daily limit was removed, along with the restricted two-month fishing season; subsequently effort was greatly reduced due to larger daily catch rates and decreased diver days in the water. A new industry-agreed catch reporting system, which is on a finer scale than previous catch report systems, has been initiated by Fisheries Research for all Roe’s abalone fishing areas in the 2000 season.

ABALONE TABLE 2 Roe’s abalone catch and effort by quota period.

∆ * +

Quota period

Roe’s TAC kg whole weight

Roe’s caught kg whole weight

Diver days ∆

1990

105,000

117,558

1114

1991

101,000

110,334

1005

1992

105,000

112,275

942

1993

128,000

116,390

1058

1994

125,960

119,849

1146

1995

125,960

115,218

1206

1996

125,960

122,065

1176

1997

126,790

119,080

970

1998

93,960*

86,530

799

1999

119,900+

108,278

757

Diver days from dedicated Roe’s abalone divers only. Reduced quota for a six-month season. Industry-instigated voluntary 6-tonne reduction in quota for 1999 year.

Notes 1. Data source: quota returns. 2. Standard conversion factor for meat weight to whole weight was 2.5 for Roe’s abalone. 3. The length of quota period has varied with management changes, and for simplicity has been recorded against the nearest calendar year.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Management arrangements for this fishery include gear restrictions, seasonal and time closures, area closures and boat restrictions. Many of the seasonal and time closures are designed to provide equitable sharing arrangements for both temporal and fish resource access. Estuarine fishing areas, fishing practices and resourcesharing issues are increasingly becoming the subject of community interest. In order to maintain a basic level of commercial presence and production while effecting a resource shift towards the recreational sector, specific estuarine voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Schemes have been initiated. These schemes allow fishers to negotiate surrender of their estuarine authorisation. In addition to the adjustment schemes, management issues, particularly those addressing resource-sharing issues, have been debated in various degrees of detail in the recently released Fisheries Management Paper no. 124 (Fisheries WA 1999a). This management paper proposes the target (or optimum) number of fishing units that should be reached in each estuary before transferability is considered. Consultation for the review of the South Coast Estuarine Fishery continued in 1999/2000. It is anticipated that new management arrangements will be implemented in the 2000/01 year. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance within the South Coast Estuarine Fishery was generally good, apart from some public complaints about some fishers continuing to set nets beyond the daytime set net closure times. Fisheries Officers monitored licences, gear restrictions, closed-water boundaries, fish size limits and the setting and retrieval limits in these fisheries. A major review of management arrangements in this fishery is being finalised and is likely to lead to further education and compliance requirements for 2000/01. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research monitoring of fish stocks in the south coast estuaries is primarily based on CAESS returns provided by industry. These data are interpreted using the extensive scientific knowledge of the fish stocks in estuaries derived from research by Fisheries WA and Murdoch University scientists during the 1970s and 1980s. This database from commercial fishermen provides a valuable and consistent source of information for monitoring recreationally important stocks where they are harvested by both groups.

Bioregion - South Coast

South Coast Estuarine Fishery

The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery. South Coast Estuarine Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Preliminary assessment for black bream Exploitation status: Target species: Black bream Cobbler King George whiting

Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed

Breeding stock levels: Target species: Black bream Cobbler King George whiting

Adequate Adequate Adequate

Previous catch projections for year 1999: South coast estuaries 220-480 tonnes Catch current season (1999): South coast estuaries 280 tonnes (includes fish, molluscs and crustaceans) Black bream 24.8 tonnes Cobbler 68 tonnes King George whiting 28.6 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for 1999: South coast estuaries $1,021,000 (includes fish, molluscs and crustaceans) Acceptable catch range next year (2000): South coast estuaries 200-500 tonnes Boundaries and Access The following estuaries and inlets located between Cape Beaufort and the WA/SA border are reported under the South Coast Estuarine Fishery (SCEF): Oyster Harbour, Wilson Inlet, Irwin Inlet, Broke Inlet, Princess Royal Harbour, Parry’s Inlet, Beaufort Inlet, Wellstead Inlet, Gordon Inlet, Dempster Inlet, Hamersley River, Culham Inlet, Oldfield River, Torradup River, Stokes Inlet and Jerdacuttup. The level of access has decreased to 31 fishing units. South coast licensees have access to each of the individual south coast estuaries, except Beaufort Inlet where only three licensees a year are granted entry. The SCEF comprises many finfish species. This report presents specific data for three of the most important estuarine fish stocks, namely black bream, cobbler and King George whiting.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

87

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries Annual Production Main fishing method Gillnet/haul net. Landings The reported catch from south coast estuaries shows a stable history between 1993 and 1997, with an increase in catches reported in 1998 followed by the decline to 1999 figures (SC Estuarine Figure 1). In 1999, Princess Royal Harbour, Oyster Harbour, Wilson Inlet, Irwin Inlet, Parry’s Inlet, Beaufort Inlet, Gordon Inlet and the Oldfield River reported decreased catches from 1998 levels. Increased catches from 1998 levels were recorded during 1999 from Broke Inlet, Stokes Inlet and Wellstead Inlet. No fishing was reported in Culham Inlet, Dempster Inlet, Hamersley River, Jerdacuttup Lakes or Torradup River. While over 50 species of sharks, rays, finfish and invertebrates are represented in the annual catch from south coast estuaries, the predominant finfish species are cobbler, King George whiting, sea mullet, yellow-eye mullet, Australian herring and black bream. In order to more accurately reflect the finfish catches from the SCEF, the 1999 reported catches follow the same format as the 1998 catches, which excluded King George Sound while continuing to incorporate Princess Royal Harbour (South Coast Estuarine Figure 1). This change provides a more accurate reflection of the production from this fishery for future management purposes. Black bream: During the past five years the catch has been concentrated in Stokes Inlet, Beaufort Inlet and Oldfield Inlet. In 1999, the reported catches of black bream in south coast estuaries increased slightly from 1998 levels, which were the lowest in the past decade (South Coast Estuarine Figure 2). Other than high overall catch figures reported during the early 1990s, which were attributed to the large catches in Culham Inlet (64 tonnes in 1992), the catches have remained fairly stable. Cobbler: During 1999, the catch was concentrated in three south coast embayments/estuaries, namely Princess Royal Harbour, Oyster Harbour and Wilson Inlet, with the highest catches reported from Wilson Inlet. In a number of estuaries, special regulations specific to the target fishing of cobbler have been introduced to protect spawning aggregations and areas. The 1999 catches from Wilson Inlet decreased by 8 tonnes from the 1998 catch (South Coast Estuarine Figure 3). Generally, there has been a trend of increased catches during the 1990s. King George whiting: Historically, the catch has been concentrated in two south coast embayments/estuaries, namely Oyster Harbour and Wilson Inlet. Prior to 1997 the catch from the Wilson Inlet was only a small proportion of the State’s total estuarine catch, however in 1997 and 1998 the Wilson Inlet catch was greater than the combined total catches from all other Western Australian estuaries. During 1999, there were also catches reported from Irwin and Broke Inlets. The King George whiting catch from Wilson Inlet for 1999 was 22.9 tonnes, approximately half of the 1998 value but well above the

88

catch during the early 1990s (South Coast Estuarine Figure 4). The very high 1998 catches resulted from high juvenile recruitment into Wilson Inlet several years earlier. Fishing effort Fishing effort has been reported as the average number of boats fishing per month. This measure of effort gives only a very general indication of effort changes. The number of days fished is also recorded, but it is difficult to determine targeted effort from this measure. Since 1992, the fishing effort in the SCEF has declined in most commercially fished estuaries between Albany and Augusta (South Coast Estuarine Figure 1). In particular, Wilson Inlet and Irwin Inlet are reporting effort declines for 1999. East of Albany, the major estuarine system regularly fished each year is Stokes Inlet. In this system, fishing effort increased in 1999. Catch rate CPUE has closely followed the trend in catches overall in south coast estuaries. The catch rate for the south coast estuaries decreased in 1999. Stock Assessment Black bream: A preliminary yield-per-recruit stock assessment was developed for the black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) fishery in the Wellstead estuary using biological data for the Wellstead estuary population from research by Sarre (1999). Preliminary results indicate that the limit biological reference point should not exceed F0.1 = 0.24*. Further evaluation of the current status of this fishery cannot be achieved until there is an understanding of the level of targeted fishing effort in each estuary or a catch curve for this species. Cobbler: The multi-species targeting aspects of the effort data from Wilson Inlet make a formal assessment of the State’s major cobbler fishery in this estuary difficult. However, the current level of catch, which is at the upper end of the historical range, and average catch per vessel operating, indicates that this valuable stock is being harvested sustainably. King George whiting: A large proportion of the south coast catch of King George whiting is fished from Wilson Inlet. The inlet provides critical nursery habitat for King George whiting to the age of 3+ years. The recent improvement in catch during 1998 (five-fold increase) and 1999 is most likely related to a substantial increase in recruits entering the estuary over the past two to three years, and not to changes in the overall fishing effort level in this estuary which, although at the maximum end of the historical range, has been relatively steady during the 1990s. * F0.1: this fishing mortality is a widely accepted value of the level of fishing mortality that might result in the optimum economic return from the fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Cobbler: The breeding stock for cobbler in the Wilson Inlet fishery is contained within the estuary. The legal minimum length for the capture of cobbler is 430 mm total length. Research by Laurenson et al. (1993b) on cobbler in Wilson Inlet demonstrated a length at maturity of approximately 425 mm, which corresponds to an age of 3+ to 4+ years. Further evaluation of the breeding stock levels of cobbler in Wilson Inlet cannot be completed until there is an understanding of the level of fishing effort or a catch curve for this species. In this estuary, the breeding size and the legal minimum length are very similar. This important species is afforded some level of protection from over-exploitation by a closed fishing area in Wilson Inlet. Cobbler possess different growth rates in different south coast estuaries, however the size at maturity is less than the legal minimum length of 430 mm, affording protection to the breeding stock.

Bioregion - South Coast

Breeding Stock Levels Black bream: A preliminary eggs-per-recruit model was developed for the black bream fishery in the Wellstead estuary using biological data for the Wellstead estuary population from research by Sarre (1999). The age at maturity for this population of black bream is 2+ years with a corresponding length of L50 = 157 mm for females and 145 mm for males. The minimum legal length is 250 mm. The approximate age of these fish is 4 years for females and 5 years for males. Preliminary results from the model indicate that the limit biological reference point for eggs per recruit at 30% of the number of eggs of the virgin stock is F@30%eggs = 0.31.** An evaluation of the current status of breeding stock levels of this species cannot be completed until there is an understanding of the level of fishing effort or a catch curve for this species. However, because the size at maturity is lower than the legal minimum length, it is believed that breeding stock levels are adequate. As with the west coast stocks of black bream, this estuarine species exhibits different growth rates in different south coast estuaries. In all cases the size at maturity is lower than the legal minimum length, affording protection to the breeding stock.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The acceptable catch range under current management arrangements is 200-500 tonnes (rounded to the nearest 50 tonnes). The acceptable catch ranges are derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the past annual catches through to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, changed management arrangements may need to be considered. Product Value for Year 1999 The 1999 value of the fisheries in the south coast estuaries is $1,021,000. Environmental Risk Assessment Not available. General Comments To enhance the stock assessment of the key estuarine species, there is a need to gain a better understanding of targeted fishing effort and to gather the data to be able to develop a catch curve for these species. Some of this information will be collected as a part of the FRDCfunded project to develop a methodology for a long-term annual index of recruitment for finfish species from southwestern Western Australia.

King George whiting: In the past two years the Wilson Inlet catch of King George whiting has surpassed the catch in other Western Australian estuaries. This population has received attention to better understand these catches. Young-of-the-year King George whiting enter Wilson Inlet and reside there for the first 3+ years of life. Four-year-old fish breed in the open ocean during winter and early spring. Migration into and out of the inlet to the ocean depends on the timing of the bar opening at the mouth of the estuary, which typically is between August and sometime during the summer or autumn. There is little fishing pressure for this species outside of Wilson Inlet. The recent high commercial catches of King George whiting from the inlet indicate a successful ocean spawning and subsequent settling of juveniles. This indicates that the breeding stock is adequate for this species. ** F@30%eggs:

the fishing mortality that would not decrease the egg production of the stock, at equilibrium, to a level less than 30% of the unexploited egg production.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

89

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries Total catch (tonnes) 50

500

40

400

30

300

South Coast Estuaries 1,200

Effort

800 600 20

200 400

10

100

0

0

Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

CPUE (kg)

1,000

200 0

81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year SOUTH COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 1 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the South Coast Estuarine Fishery over the period 1980-1999. Note that prior to 1993, the south coast estuarine catch figures included King George Sound, which was not strictly part of the SCEF. From 1993, when a separate fishing block was created for Princess Royal Harbour, the catch figures include Princess Royal Harbour but not King George Sound.

50

100

40

80

30

60

20

40

10

20

0

0

Black Bream South Coast Estuaries 200

Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

150

100

CPUE (kg)

Effort

Fish catch (tonnes)

50

0 81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

SOUTH COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 2 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) fishery in south coast estuaries over the period 1980-1999.

90

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

80

800

12

70

700

60

600

50

500

40

400

30

300

8 6 4

200

20

2

10

0

0

CPUE (kg)

Effort

Cobbler Wilson Inlet

14

10

Bioregion - South Coast

Fish catch (tonnes)

Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

100 0 93

95

97

99

Year SOUTH COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 3 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the cobbler (Cnidoglanis macrocephalus) fishery of Wilson Inlet over the period 1974-1999.

Fish catch (tonnes) 14

King George Whiting Wilson Inlet 350

50

12

300 40

Effort

8 6

30

200 Catch CPUE - Mean monthly catch per fishing unit Effort - Mean monthly number of fishing units

20

4

150

CPUE (kg)

250

10

100

10 50

2 0

0

0 75

77

79

81

83

85

87

89

91

93

95

97

99

Year

SOUTH COAST ESTUARINE FIGURE 4 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE) for the King George whiting (Sillaginodes punctata) fishery of Wilson Inlet over the period 1974-1999.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

91

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries Western Australian Salmon Managed Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Western Australian salmon (Arripis truttaceus) are taken primarily during their annual east-to-west migration between February and April each year, by fishing teams using a beach seine net from small boats. Salmon may also be taken outside this period, particularly on the south coast. There are two managed salmon fisheries: •



The South Coast Salmon Managed Fishery permits authorisation holders to operate from specifically assigned beaches between Shoal Cape and Cape Beaufort. The South West Coast Salmon Managed Fishery operates north of Cape Beaufort, comprising specific beaches that are shared by the authorisation holders through priority of netting rules.

The initial catches for the year 2000 salmon season were lower than usual, with spasmodic catches along the south coast. This is believed to be due to a greater than usual influx of warm water along the south coast which resulted in an unusual catching pattern compared with previous years. It was not until mid-season, i.e. mid- to late March, that significant catches occurred. With respect to the South West Salmon Managed Fishery, the warmer waters are believed to deter a significant quantity of salmon from migrating around to the west coast. Management issues and Ministerial advice relating to these fisheries are discussed at meetings of the Australian Salmon and Herring Industry Advisory Committee. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY The South Coast and South West Coast Salmon Managed Fisheries are monitored by staff located at Bunbury, Busselton, Augusta and Albany. Compliance has remained high in both fisheries. Compliance activities for this shore-based seine net fishery included beach inspections for block nets, checking commercial fishing licences, monitoring penning time periods and compliance with designated fishing zone boundaries.

92

Western Australian Salmon Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: 1,800-4,900 tonnes Catch current season (1999): 1,725 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $827,000 Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 1,300-3,600 tonnes Boundaries and Access As at April 1999, each of 18 licensed south coast teams has access to a nominated beach in this sector, the boundaries of which are ‘Western Australian waters below high water mark from Cape Beaufort to the waters up to the eastern boundary of the State on the south coast of Western Australia’. A further 12 licensees collectively have access to beaches in the west coast sector, the boundaries of which are ‘Western Australian waters from the eastern boundary of the State on the north coast of Western Australia to Cape Beaufort on the south-west coast of Western Australia’. Three licensees have access to the west coast sector north of the Busselton jetty. Annual Production Main fishing method Beach seine.

In recent years some recreational/commercial conflict has been reported in relation to the beach-based fishing activity, particularly with respect to designated fishing zones. This year no reports were received. This may be attributed to the proactive media campaign educating both the general community and licensees on recreational and commercial salmon fishers’ rights and wishes in designated fishing zones.

Landings Between March and May 1999, the south coast catch of salmon was 1,018 tonnes (CAESS data). There were 394 tonnes caught in the ‘back run’ between June and December. The January and February catch was 27 tonnes, which would have been part of the back run from the previous year. The south-west and west coast catch for 1999 totalled 286 tonnes (CAESS data). For these two areas almost all of the catch was taken between March and May.

RESEARCH SUMMARY The main information used to monitor this important commercial and recreational stock is from industry CAESS data and historical biological research.

The highest proportion of the 1999 south coast catch (612 tonnes, 42.5%) was taken from the western region of the fishery (from west of Albany to Windy Harbour). A total of 568 tonnes (39.4% of overall catch) was taken in the central sector of the fishery (from east of Albany to

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Fishing effort There are 18 south coast and 15 west coast fishing teams. Catch rate During 1999, the average catch per south coast fishing team was 79.9 tonnes, and the average catch per west coast team was 19 tonnes. Stock Assessment The preliminary yield-per-recruit and egg-per-recruit analyses indicate that, while many smaller salmon are being caught by the fishery, the fishing effort has not impacted on the number of eggs available. Research to date has shown that environmental factors exert a dominant influence on year-class strength and subsequent recruitment to the Western Australian commercial fishery. However, this annual level of recruitment is a function of the relative size of contributions from Western Australian and South Australian nursery areas to the overall recruited year classes. Hence there is a need for some index of the relative contribution of South Australian and Western Australian recruitment to the Western Australian commercial catch. Although more complex yield-perrecruit or egg-per-recruit analyses are needed to account for this variability in recruitment before an accurate determination of the status of the stock can be completed, there are insufficient resources available to undertake this research. Breeding Stock Levels Current commercial catches indicate the breeding stock is still at an acceptable level. However, egg-per-recruit analysis indicates that the current exploitation level on the western Australian salmon population is high, owing to the nature of the fishery. Any further increase in the catch from either commercial or recreational fishers, or significant reduction in recruitment due to unusual environmental effects, could take the stock below a limit biological reference point of 30% of virgin egg biomass. This result is consistent with that from the yield-perrecruit analysis.

Bioregion - South Coast

Cape Riche). Fewer fish (260 tonnes, 18.1%) were taken from the eastern sector of the fishery (from Cape Riche to Point Charles, east of Bremer Bay). The total State catch for the year, of 1,725 tonnes, was about 1,076 tonnes less than the previous year (Salmon Figure 1).

Product Value for Year 1999 The landed value of the catch is approximately $827,000 from the managed fishery. The south coast catch in 1999 was received by five processors: Albany Bait Producers, Princess Royal Seafoods, Allerton’s Bait Supply, Bremer Bay Fish Processors and Bevan’s Fish Supplies. Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery uses beach seine nets to specifically target schooling salmon primarily during the annual spawning migration. The fishery is restricted to 18 specific beaches along the south coast, and a sector of the south-west corner and lower west coast. The remainder of the south coast is protected from commercial fishing. As a result of the fishing method and the design of the gear used, the fishery does not involve any bycatch or protected species impacts. As salmon are a top-end predator in the marine food chain of the lower west and south coasts, the fishery has the potential to reduce the mortality on salmon prey species. However, given the naturally occurring variability in Australian salmon biomass, the fishery effect is likely to be less than the natural variation on prey species. Overall, the ecological impact of the fishery is assessed as low. General Comments The 1999 catch of 1,725 tonnes was 75 tonnes lower than the lower limit of the catch projection for 1999. As Salmon Figure 1 demonstrates, the annual catches in this fishery have varied considerably since 1974. It is felt that the variation is due, in part, to environmental factors and market values. In order to begin resolving stock assessment difficulties, preliminary sampling was undertaken in Western Australian nursery areas in late 1994 with a view to developing a recruitment index for Western Australian salmon comparable to the existing South Australian recruitment index. This sampling is continuing at key sites along the lower south-west coast of Western Australia.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The expected catch range under the current management regime is 1,300 to 3,600 tonnes (rounded to the nearest 50 tonnes) of salmon. This projection is derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the past 35 years of annual catches to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals have been set at 85%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, changes to the management arrangements to protect the stock may need to be considered.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries 4,500 Total WA South coast WA West coast WA

4,000

Catch (tonnes)

3,500

South Australia

3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500

1998

1996

1994

1992

1990

1988

1986

1984

1982

1980

1978

1976

1974

0

Year

SALMON FIGURE 1 Australian salmon catches for South Australia and Western Australia for the period 1974 to 1999. Catches prior to 1977 for South Australia are unavailable.

Australian Herring Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The majority of the commercial catch of herring (Arripis georgianus) is taken using herring trap nets (also known as ‘G’ trap nets) from south coast beaches. A relatively small quantity of herring is taken by beach seine and set net. Fish traps are only permitted to be used by specific endorsement on specifically assigned south coast beaches for a specified period (10 February to 25 March each year). Herring caught in Cockburn Sound are managed under the Cockburn Sound (Fish Net) Managed Fishery. Apart from these restrictions, herring may be commercially caught by beach seine and set net by any licensed commercial fisher holding an unrestricted fishing boat licence. Herring is also a very important recreational fishing resource. In recognition of this, the South Coast Herring Fishery Voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Scheme was introduced for the period February 1998 to 30 June 2000. In this process, fishermen were able to offer the surrender of their herring trap endorsement to the scheme and be compensated by a negotiated amount.

COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance activities related to this fishery tend to concentrate on the duration of the season and the period of time each day for which nets may be set. There were no compliance problems encountered, with all fishers abiding by the season and time closures. No significant conflicts were reported for this beach-based fishery during 1999/2000. RESEARCH SUMMARY The annual assessment of the status of the herring stock has historically been undertaken utilising primarily CAESS data supplied by industry. As a result of a major downturn in herring catches during the early 1990s, a national research project, involving Fisheries WA, the South Australian Research and Development Institute and Murdoch University, was funded by FRDC and commenced in 1996/97. The project research report will be finalised and available to the public by mid-2000 and will provide more detailed biological information for future stock management. The following status report summarises the research findings for this fishery.

Management issues and Ministerial advice relating to the herring fisheries are discussed at meetings of the Australian Salmon and Herring Industry Advisory Committee.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1999: South coast only 430-1,220 tonnes Catch current season (1999): South coast only 642 tonnes Total WA 765 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: South coast only $260,000 Acceptable catch range next year (2000): South coast only 450-1,200 tonnes Boundaries and Access All licensed commercial fishers are permitted to take Australian herring in any Western Australian waters open to commercial fishing. However, there are only 13 licensees (most are also Australian salmon fishers) permitted to take herring using ‘G’ trap nets set on 12 nominated south coast beaches during a short six-week season each year. Annual Production

Bioregion - South Coast

Australian Herring Stock Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara

Stock Assessment Two age-structured stock assessment models have been developed, one for the west coast of Western Australia and one for the southern coast of Australia, using historic information and data gathered during the three-year Australian herring research project. The results of the age-structured models suggest that the stock on the west coast of Western Australia is smaller than the stock on the southern coast of Australia. The Australian herring populations in all regions appear to be at satisfactory levels, and above a prudent biological limit reference point of 40% of the total virgin biomass (Quinn & Deriso 1999, p. 474). At this time, further analyses are continuing to improve model estimates and to reduce uncertainty around some of the results of the model. Breeding Stock Levels As is the case with Australian salmon, virtually the entire commercial herring catch consists of mature individuals with peak seasonal catches being taken during the annual spawning migration. Increasingly, evidence suggests that the influence of factors other than fishing may be largely responsible for fluctuations in the catch and, therefore, breeding stock levels (see General Comments). Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) The acceptable catch range for the south coast herring fishery under the current management regime is 450-1,200 tonnes (rounded to the nearest 50 tonnes). This projection is derived by double exponential smoothed forecasting of the past annual catches to 1998 and the variation of observations around the predictions. The confidence intervals are set at 80%. Future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values occur outside of the range, management changes to protect the stock will need to be considered. Product Value for Year 1999 The landed value of the south coast herring catch for 1999 is approximately $260,000.

Main fishing method Trap (‘G’) net and beach seine. Landings The total catch of Australian herring for the State in 1999 was 765 tonnes, an increase of approximately 25 tonnes from the 1998 catch (Herring Figure 1). The annual south coast catch was 642 tonnes, which comprises 84% of the total State catch. The south coast catch to the end of May 1999 (end of the trap net fishing season) was 611 tonnes, or 95% of the annual south coast catch (CAESS data). This is 17 tonnes less than the 1998 catch to that date. Fishing effort There are 13 south coast fishing teams with access to the trap net fishery. Catch rate The average annual catch per south coast fishing team during 1999 was 49.4 tonnes.

Environmental Risk Assessment This fishery operates primarily through fixed net traps which are manned daily during the short autumn fishing season. As the fishery is restricted to 12 beach locations, the remainder of the southern coastline is effectively closed apart from recreational fishing. As the gear used specifically targets Australian herring, there are no bycatch or related protected-species issues for this fishery. While Australian herring is a significant species in the marine food chain of the south-west, the presence of a variety of similar species suggests that fishing of this stock is unlikely to have a major impact. Overall, the ecological effect of this fishery is assessed as low. General Comments The catch trend to 1991 was towards increasing commercial catches of herring. As is the case with Australian salmon, a proportion of the resource is recruited from South Australian nursery areas. However, it is thought that on a year-to-year basis, ‘local’ recruitment is far more important to the Western

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

95

Commercial Fisheries Bioregion - South Coast

Australian fishery than recruitment from South Australia. This is likely to be particularly true for the west coast sector of the resource, where it is believed that protected marine habitats, such as Geographe Bay, are substantial nursery areas and can be a source of significant recruitment. Indeed, historical catch records clearly indicate that the size of the west coast catch is unrelated to the size of the south coast catch, which is consistent with the above view. A correlation coefficient of 0.38 was found between the south and west coast catches using catch data between 1976 and 1998.

fishery has been characterised by large fluctuations in catch, effort and CPUE over the past 10 years. The fluctuations in catch appear related to several factors, including significantly lower Australian herring catches in years of high Australian salmon catches, and declining fishing effort (in terms of boat-days fished) due to decreased demand for bait from the western rock lobster industry, which is increasingly using imported bait. Additionally, the variation in the CPUE (believed to be a valid indicator of relative abundance) could be explained by the variation in recruitment strength to the fishery, which was linked to variation in the environmentally determined pre-recruit index from as far away as eastern South Australia.

Over the first half of the 1990s there was a marked decline in the overall catch of Australian herring by the commercial sector (Herring Figure 1). One of the objectives of the Australian herring research project was to examine this decline and determine whether fishing or factors independent of fishing caused the decline in commercial catches being experienced across the range of this species. The Western Australian south coast trap net

The Australian herring research project has been finalised and will be published by mid-2000. The agency’s Fisheries Research Division undertook this project in collaboration with Murdoch University and the South Australian Research and Development Institute.

1,600 South coast

1,400

Total WA

Catch (tonnes)

1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200

1999

1997

1995

1993

1991

1989

1987

1985

1983

1981

1979

1977

0

Year

HERRING FIGURE 1 Catches of Australian herring from the south coast and the total Western Australian catch for the period 1976 to 1999.

96

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

MANAGEMENT SUMMARY This fishery is based on the capture of pilchards (Sardinops sagax) and other small pelagic fish by purse seine nets in the waters off the south coast of Western Australia between Cape Leeuwin and the WA/SA border under the provisions of the South Coast Purse Seine Management Plan 1994. Pilchards have a variety of uses, being sold for human consumption, angling bait, commercial bait, tuna food and pet food. The recreational angling bait market is currently the main focus. The spread of a Herpesvirus throughout the pilchard population in 1995 and again in 1998/99 has had a serious impact on the stock. Knowledge of the pathogen has increased significantly since the first outbreak, but there are still important knowledge gaps, such as the source of the virus, and the possibility of a further outbreak represents a real threat to the industry.1 Commercial fishing is controlled by the setting of total allowable catches (TACs) that represent the combination of transferable quota units within each of the five zones. With the exception of Zone 4 (Esperance region), TACs have been reduced to zero for the 2000/01 season. The TAC for Esperance is 1,060 tonnes. The TAC-setting process is coordinated through the Purse Seine Management Advisory Committee, an expertisebased committee established to advise the Minister on matters relating to the management of purse seine fishing in Western Australia. 1

The investigation into the cause and effects of the 1998/99 pilchard mortality event is coordinated by the Joint Pilchard Scientific Working Group, a national group composed of experts in the field of animal and fisheries health

COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Compliance activity in the South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery is based in the Albany and Esperance districts. Traditionally, a significant component of the compliance function is auditing quota and administering the quota monitoring system. The pilchard mortality event, however, led to a significant downturn in fishing activities particularly in the Albany and Bremer Bay zones. Subsequently, quota levels were reviewed, and while the Esperance zone was reopened and continued to catch pilchards, the Albany and Bremer Bay zones had zero quotas from 1 April 2000. The closures and associated regional effects required more time to be spent on liaison with fishers, processors and the general community, rather than specific compliance work. RESEARCH SUMMARY Data for setting catch quotas is derived from fisheryindependent spawning biomass surveys, quota returns and biological monitoring of the catch composition. Data on quantities of pilchards killed during the mass mortality event were also utilised.

Bioregion - South Coast

South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery

Research during 2000 will focus on fishery-independent spawning biomass surveys, which will continue for the next six years as part of an FRDC-funded project to examine regrowth of the pilchard stocks in Western Australia. Detailed monitoring of catches will continue in regions with pilchard catches, given that TACs of zero tonnes have been set for Albany and Bremer Bay. These data together allow the annual review of stocks in each major zone and compilation of the following status report. South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery Status Report Prepared by D. Gaughan Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Poor overall. Seriously depressed at Albany and Bremer Bay Previous catch projections for year 1999: Quota levels set prior to the mortality event were: South coast total 5,200 tonnes Albany zone 1,500 tonnes Bremer Bay zone 1,900 tonnes Esperance zone 1,800 tonnes Quota levels following the mortality event were reduced to: South coast total 2,090 tonnes Albany zone 420 tonnes Bremer Bay zone 630 tonnes Esperance zone 1,040 tonnes Catch current season (1999): South coast total 734 tonnes Albany zone 139 tonnes Bremer Bay zone 185 tonnes Esperance zone 410 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: $0.7 million Acceptable catch/effort range next year (2000): South coast total Quota: 1,060 tonnes Albany zone Quota: 0 tonnes Effort: Nil Bremer Bay zone Quota: 0 tonnes Effort: Nil Esperance zone Quota: 1,060 tonnes Effort: Not available Boundaries and Access The South Coast Purse Seine Managed Fishery consists of three primary management zones, with separate quota units for each zone. The Albany zone extends from Point D’Entrecasteaux to Cape Knob. The King George Sound

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

97

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries zone is a subset of this area and the two zones are reported together. The boundaries of the Bremer Bay zone are Cape Knob and Point Charles. The boundaries of the Esperance zone are Point Charles and the WA/SA border. A further zone between Cape Leeuwin and Cape D’Entrecasteaux exists, but, to date, has not been significantly fished.

Catch rate Albany zone: The catch rate using fuel consumption for 1999 decreased to 9.3 kg/L from 11.4 kg/L in 1998, continuing the trend following the decrease from 17.1 kg/L in 1997. The CAESS data for 1999 likewise indicated further decreases to only 536 kg/day from 1,332 kg/day in 1998, 1,443 kg/day in 1997 and 1,653 kg/day in 1996.

The access to the fishery is under a limited entry system with each vessel having individually transferable quota.

Bremer Bay zone: The catch rate for 1999 using fuel figures was 16.6 kg/L, a large decline from 29.7 kg/L in 1998, and continuing on from a more modest decline from 35 kg/L in 1997. The CAESS data indicated that the catch rate was 693 kg/day, a significant reduction compared with estimates of approximately 2,000 kg/day for the previous two years.

Annual Production Main fishing method Purse seine net. Landings Using data from the quota returns, the catch of pilchards (Sardinops sagax) on the south coast in 1999 was 734 tonnes, with 139 tonnes from the Albany zone, 185 tonnes from the Bremer Bay zone and 410 tonnes from the Esperance zone (South Coast Purse Seine Figure 1). This is the lowest total catch of pilchards from the south coast for many years and is substantially less than the total TAC across the south coast of 2,090 tonnes. Part of this decrease for Esperance was due to the need to close the fishery as a result of the mortality event which passed through the region during the peak catching period. The mass mortality event of 1998/99, possibly combined with reduced vulnerability to fishing of pilchards due to shifts in distribution of the stock following warmer than average water temperatures associated with the La Niña climate pattern of 1999, led to the substantial reduction in annual catches at Bremer Bay and Albany.

Esperance zone: The catch rate in Esperance was 5.9 kg/L, very similar to the estimate of 5.7 kg/L in 1998, following the marked fall from around 25 kg/L in 1997. Likewise, the CAESS data showed a remarkably steady trend with the 1999 catch rate of 1,224 kg/day almost the same as the 1998 estimate of 1,261 kg/day.

Fishing effort Owing to extreme changes in the industry in 1999, resulting from the scarcity of pilchards for much of the season and including the need to adjust quota levels during the season, even traditionally simple estimates of effort, such as number of fishing days, will need very careful scrutiny before any inferences on abundance can be made. Thus, while a higher level of cooperation (e.g. sharing of information) while searching for pilchards was reported between industry members in some regions, this has not been quantified and, therefore, the magnitude of the influence of this factor on decreasing fishing effort is unknown.

Albany zone: The assessment model indicated that the biomass at Albany has been declining since 1994 and, as of December 1998, was at its lowest recorded level. Following the mass mortality, the stock was considered to be critically low and in a severely depressed state. Both estimates of catch rate show major declines over the past three years; given the hyperstability of catch rates for small pelagic species, these declines support the other evidence for a small distinct adult stock in this area.

Albany zone: The number of days fished (247 CAESS days) during 1999 was significantly lower than in 1998 (1,565 CAESS days). Likewise, reported fuel use decreased from 182,300 litres in 1998 to only 14,980 litres in 1999. Bremer Bay zone: The number of boat days fished was 267, about one quarter of that in 1998. Fuel use in 1999 was 11,408 litres, about 15% of that in 1998. Esperance zone: The recorded number of CAESS days in 1999 was about 335, 60% of that in 1998.

98

Stock Assessment The south coast population of pilchards is considered to consist of a single breeding stock, but with functionally distinct adult stocks at Albany, Bremer Bay and Esperance. Estimates of quantities of pilchards killed in the 1998/99 mass mortality indicate that possibly 70% of the stock died. This substantial loss from the south coast pilchard stock was expected to cause serious declines in catches, which has been the case at Albany and Bremer Bay, but not at Esperance. Likewise, the severe cuts in TACs expected for 2000/01 also eventuated.

The quality of the catch-at-age data for Albany in 1999 was less than in previous years because of the smaller overall catch and fewer months of the year from which samples were obtained. This is obvious from the extremely high proportion of one-year-olds, which, while seemingly indicative of good recruitment in 2000, could predominantly be attributed to a single school in King George Sound. These fish were not targeted once it was obvious that they were not of marketable size. Indeed, it was their small size which caused them to become meshed in purse seine nets and thus preclude live release. The apparent level of recruitment of two-year-olds in 1999 was reasonable. However, it should be noted that high levels of recruitment would have been required if the Albany stock of adults was to stop declining in size and increase, even without the advent of the virus mortality.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Esperance zone: Esperance again had a high level of recruitment in 1999. The proportion of two-year-olds in the catch (38.8%) was the highest recorded for the fishery and suggests that the biomass should not decrease in size from the 1999 season to the 2000 season. The relatively stable nature of the biomass at Esperance can be attributed both to fewer years of poor recruitment than in the other south coast regions, and to a history of much lower exploitation rates. Although Esperance was similar to Albany in that catches in 1999 were much lower than expected, this had not yet given cause for concern because of the history of lower exploitation and because this fishery was not reliant on older age-classes of fish. Current exploitation rates are less than 10% of the spawning biomass and appear to be sustainable. However, given the impact of the virus event and uncertainties over the level of interchange of pre-recruit-aged pilchards between the south coast zones, the level of exploitation may need to be reviewed. While the estimated biomass decreased during the period 1994 to 1998, the good recruitment in both 1998 and 1999, along with the relatively consistent recruitment over the period of the fishery, had been enough to maintain the biomass above 15,000 tonnes. Thus there is no significant change to the TAC for 2000.

Bioregion - South Coast

Bremer Bay zone: Bremer Bay had reasonable recruitment compared with the previous three years. The decrease in the contribution to the catch in this region by four-year-olds, which was seen in 1996 and 1997, was again evident in 1998. The increases in average length, weight and age (otolith weight) of pilchards from Bremer Bay recorded in 1997 were again evident in 1998, indicating that the fishery in this region has continued to become more reliant on older age-classes as a result of poor recruitment in recent years. The reasonably good contribution of three-year-olds in 1998 has, as expected last year, flowed through as four-year-olds in 1999, making this one of the dominant age-classes for the first time since 1996. However, as with the Albany stock, the integrated model indicated that the Bremer Bay stock has been declining since the mid-1990s. While the history of lower exploitation rates in this region than in Albany previously suggested that the stock decline at Bremer Bay was unlikely to be as severe as that which occurred at Albany, the impact of the mass mortality and poor catches/catch rates in 1999 have negated this view; the Bremer Bay stock currently appears to be severely depressed.

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (2000) Given the large reduction in stock size across the south coast and the significant decreases in the TACs at Albany and Bremer Bay, the south coast pilchard catch in 2000 is expected to be around 1,000 tonnes, but mainly from the Esperance zone. Environmental Risk Assessment Not provided due to impact of disease outside of this State’s management control. Product Value for Year 1999 The higher value angling blocks/trays and individually quick frozen (IQF) fish represented about 90% of the total catch processed. The different product types for each zone are shown in South Coast Purse Seine Table 1. In line with the very low catch, total catch value for 1999 was only $0.7 million. General Comments Following the loss of stock due to the mass mortality event, serious concerns about the sustainability of pilchard stocks in Western Australia have continued. In particular, these concerns led to TACs of zero tonnes for Albany and Bremer Bay during the 2000/01 quota season. Because there are still significant gaps in our knowledge of the pilchard Herpesvirus, it is not known if or when there may be another outbreak of the disease. Although the stock is likely to recover, the rebuilding process is expected to be relatively slow and the future viability of the fleet is in question. The short- and medium-term viability of the purse seine fisheries off southern Western Australia currently remains a problem. The gap left in the angling bait market by the decreased volume of Western Australian pilchards has been filled by Sardinops sagax imported from overseas, particularly from California, which presents a degree of risk to the local pilchard stocks.

Breeding Stock Levels Breeding stock for the entire south coast pilchard population decreased by approximately 70% due to the disease event in the first two months of 1999. Removing 70% from the estimates of vulnerable biomass (which closely reflects spawning biomass), estimated as of December 1998, gives estimates of stock size for each zone during 1999 of 2,413, 4,827 and 7,240 tonnes for Albany, Bremer Bay and Esperance respectively. Estimates of spawning biomass obtained using the daily egg production method during 1999 were 89, 4,156 and 17,396 tonnes for these same three regions. Although concordance is not particularly high for both types of estimates, the trend for major decreases in the breeding stock from the estimates made in 1998 are obvious.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

99

Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries SOUTH COAST PURSE SEINE TABLE 1 Processing details (in tonnes) from Albany, Bremer Bay and Esperance for 1999.

Product

Albany

Bremer Bay

Esperance

Total south coast

Trays

39.5

123.4

303.0

465.9 (63.5%)

IQF

46.5

53.1

92.0

191.6 (26.1%)

Pet/tuna food

53.0

8.5

15.0

76.5 (10.4%)

139.0

185.0

410.0

Total

South Coast total

8,000

Catch (tonnes)

734.0

Albany Bremer Bay Esperance

6,000

4,000

2,000

0 1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

Year

SOUTH COAST PURSE SEINE FIGURE 1 Annual catch of pilchards on the south coast.

100

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

1995

2000

Bioregion - South Coast

0.5

0.5 1990

0.4 0.3

1995

0.4 0.3

0.2

0.2

0.1

0.1

0

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

8

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

0.5

0.5

1991

0.4 0.3

1996

0.4 0.3

0.2

0.2

0.1

0.1 0

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

0.5

2

3

4

5

6

7

0.5

1992

0.4 0.3

1

1997

0.4 0.3

0.2

0.2

0.1

0.1

0

8

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

0.5

8

2

3

4

5

6

7

0.5

1993

0.4 0.3

1

1998

0.4 0.3

0.2

0.2

0.1

0.1

0

8

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

0.5

7

8

2

3

4

5

6

7

0.5

1994

0.4 0.3

1

1999

0.4 0.3

0.2

0.2

0.1

0.1

0

8

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

SOUTH COAST PURSE SEINE FIGURE 2 Annual catch-at-age curves (proportions by age-class) for the Albany zone including King George Sound.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fisheries MANAGEMENT SUMMARY Joint Authority Southern Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery (JASDGDLF): During 1996/97, the Minister for Fisheries approved the implementation of a five-year management package for this fishery. This package was developed by the WA Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery Management Advisory Committee (WADGDLFMAC) in response to an identified need to restore and maintain targeted shark stocks at 40% of their original biomass. The fishery has implemented the last of the scheduled effort reductions specified in the five-year package, and the results of scientific monitoring indicate that the reductions made to date have arrested the decline and are setting the fishery on track to achieving its biomass targets. Having developed good stock assessment models, Fisheries WA will continue to monitor the effectiveness of management arrangements in the fishery in close association with the WADGDLFMAC. West Coast Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Interim Managed Fishery (WCDGDLIMF): Extensive research carried out on the commercially important shark species off the Western Australian coast indicates that this fishery shares a unit stock with the Joint Authority Southern Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery. The biomass targets for the south coast fishery also apply to the west coast fishery, and the declaration of a management plan was an important part of the management of the key species throughout their distribution. Fisheries WA plans to progress management of this fishery from interim managed fishery status to managed fishery status upon completion of what has been a lengthy objections process. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY Fisheries Officers from the Albany, Bunbury, Busselton and Esperance districts undertake compliance monitoring activities in these fisheries. These activities include monitoring time/gear units and net length controls. Some commercial/recreational/general community conflict continues in the Geographe Bay and mid-south coast areas. Community and industry liaison by local Fisheries WA staff has assisted each sector to develop a better understanding of other sectors’ concerns and needs. RESEARCH SUMMARY A major FRDC-funded study of the shark fishery on the south and west coasts of Western Australia, undertaken over the period 1993/94 to 1998/99, has provided a detailed basis for managing the fishery. The extensive information from these studies has been incorporated in two FRDC final reports, and the data sets incorporated into the Fisheries WA research data records. A new three-

102

year FRDC-funded project commenced in July 2000 focusing on the thickskin (sandbar) shark component of the fishery. Research monitoring of the fishery involves analysis of CAESS data and biological sampling of commercial catches. These research data are used to provide the following status report on the fishery. JASDGDLF and WCDGDLIMF Status Reports Prepared by R. McAuley and M. Moran Main Features Stock assessment complete: Completed for three species - whiskery, dusky whaler and gummy sharks Exploitation status: Whiskery shark Over-exploited Dusky whaler Fully exploited Gummy shark Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Whiskery shark Slowly declining Dusky whaler Not readily determined Gummy shark Adequate Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: Whiskery shark 200-250 tonnes Dusky whaler 400-500 tonnes Gummy shark 275-325 tonnes Catch current season (1998/99): Total shark catch 1,303 tonnes Whiskery shark 212 tonnes Dusky whaler 425 tonnes Gummy shark 316 tonnes Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: Total of shark and scalefish in JASDGDLF and WCDGDLIMF: $4.3 million ($5.7 million including estimated value of shark fins) Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): Whiskery shark 200-250 tonnes Dusky whaler 400-500 tonnes Gummy shark 275-325 tonnes Boundaries and Access Joint Authority Southern Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery: The JASDGDLF was declared a limited entry fishery in 1988, managed under a joint authority with the Commonwealth Government. It covers the waters from latitude 33ºS to the WA/SA border. For the purposes of management, the fishery is composed of two zones: (a) Zone 1, the western zone located between latitude 33ºS and longitude 116º30′E; and (b) Zone 2, the eastern zone located between 116º30′E and the WA/SA border (129ºE).

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

West Coast Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Interim Managed Fishery: An interim management plan for the demersal gillnet and demersal longline fishery between latitude 33ºS and North-West Cape was introduced in 1997/98, and is currently in the ‘objections process’. The fishery is currently managed using effort controls in the form of time/gear units, with each unit allowing a net length of 540 m. Access to the WCDGDLIMF during 1998/99 was limited to 38 fishers who had powered-net drum endorsements. Substantially fewer vessels are expected to have access after objections are finalised and the final management plan is introduced. Shark fishing between Shark Bay and North-West Cape has been prohibited since 1993 to protect breeding stocks of whaler sharks. Annual Production Main fishing method Demersal gillnet. Landings JASDGDLF: Total shark catch Total scalefish catch Whiskery shark catch Dusky whaler catch Gummy shark catch Other shark catch

906.4 tonnes 124.6 tonnes 154.6 tonnes 264.4 tonnes 311.7 tonnes 175.7 tonnes

WCDGDLIMF: Total shark catch Total scalefish catch Whiskery shark catch Dusky whaler catch Other shark catch

396.6 tonnes 75.6 tonnes 57.8 tonnes 160.2 tonnes 178.6 tonnes

Fishing effort JASDGDLF: WCDGDLIMF:

189,951 kilometre gillnet hours 155,402 kilometre gillnet hours

Effort is expressed as kilometre gillnet hours, with longline effort being converted to gillnet equivalent effort.

Bioregion - South Coast

The fishery is currently managed using effort controls in the form of time/gear units. One unit allows a fisher to use one ‘net’ for one month. When management was introduced a net length was 600 m, but a 10% effort reduction in 1992 brought it down to 540 m. In June 1994, further effort reductions were put in place. A 30% net length reduction in Zone 2 reduced the amount of net associated with one unit to 378 m, while in Zone 1, units were reduced by 20%, allowing 432 m of net per unit. The 20% and 30% effort reductions were maintained in the 1995/96, 1996/97 and 1997/98 seasons. In 1998/99, Zone 1 net lengths were further reduced (by 10% of their 1992 level), bringing them into line with Zone 2 units which remained at 378 m. The effects of net length reductions, aimed at reducing effort directed at whiskery sharks, were offset by southern fishery operators being permitted to use 20-drop mesh nets, which increase the catch rates of other shark species. Zone 1 fishers still using 15-drop mesh nets were permitted to continue using 432 m per unit.

Catch rate See Stock Assessment section below. Stock Assessment Stock assessment is carried out for the three main shark species caught by the fishery - whiskery, dusky whaler and gummy sharks. Details of the stock assessment are contained in ‘Fisheries status and stock assessment for the Southern and West Coast Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fisheries and Northern Shark Fisheries’, no. 7, June 2000, provided by Fisheries WA researchers to the WADGDLFMAC. A summary of the results of the stock assessments follows. Whiskery shark: Although whiskery shark landings in Zone 1 of the JASDGDLF were up by 65% from the previous year, decreased catch in Zone 2 of the JASDGDLF and in the WCDGDLF led to an overall decline of 8% in the catch in 1998/99. Catch rates of whiskery sharks decreased substantially during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Since reaching these low levels, the catch rates have declined only slowly and seem to have stabilised in recent years. Estimates of the current level of total biomass (relative to the virgin level) range from 19% to 45%, with the best estimate at 34.8%. Estimates of current biomass levels are substantially higher than in years prior to 1998, as a result of an improved method of assessing the status of the stocks. At this level of biomass, the whiskery shark stock is still considered over-exploited. The 1998/99 level of effort is approximately 17% higher than in 1997/98 and 3% greater than in 1996/97. This is primarily related to delays in implementing the most recent agreed effort reductions. Dusky whaler: The catch of dusky whalers in 1998/99 was slightly above that of the previous year. Catch rates of dusky whalers are difficult to interpret because of the long period between entering the fishery and attaining maturity. The difficulties with interpreting the catch and effort information make estimation of current biomass levels impossible. To overcome the limitations of using catch and effort data in the assessment of the dusky shark stock, a tagging study is used to estimate the age-specific exploitation rate. Demographic analyses incorporating these results indicate the current level of fishing is not over-exploiting the stock, provided the exploitation rate of mature animals does not exceed 4%. There is growing concern over possibly unreported catch of adult dusky whalers in other Commonwealthmanaged fisheries in particular. Gummy shark: The total catch of gummy sharks in 1998/99 was very similar to that for the previous three seasons. Catch rates of gummy sharks have remained relatively stable since the early 1980s, before which catch rates had declined. Estimates of the current level of biomass (relative to the 1975 level) range from 22.6% to 60.2%, with the best estimate at 42.7%. At this level of biomass, the gummy shark stock is considered fully exploited. Risk assessment was used to calculate the probability of attaining the stock target set by the WADGDLFMAC (40% or greater of the 1975 level of biomass by 2010). To achieve this target the effort level in the fishery needs to be less than 70% of the 1993/94

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - South Coast

Commercial Fisheries level to ensure that the stock target of 40% of original biomass is met. The 1998/99 level of effort is approximately 9% lower than in 1997/98 and 36% of the 1993/94 level of effort. Breeding Stock Levels For both whiskery and gummy stocks, total stock biomass is used as a proxy for breeding stock levels. Whiskery shark Dusky whaler

Gummy shark

Best estimate 34.8% of virgin level Not measurable, but considered likely to be above 40% of the virgin level as the fishery only targets juveniles Best estimate 42.7% of 1975 level and stable at current levels of fishing

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) Whiskery shark 200-250 tonnes Dusky whaler 400-500 tonnes Gummy shark 275-325 tonnes Product Value for Year 1998/99 JASDGDLF: $3.14 million (shark and scalefish) WCDGDLIMF: $1.15 million (shark and scalefish)

the next two years. Assuming these measures are effective, the gummy shark stock is expected to stabilise and its breeding stock to gradually recover to a level above the minimum acceptable level. The probability of the whiskery shark stock achieving the biomass target under current levels of effort decreased in 1998/99, and this species will need to be closely monitored in coming seasons to ensure the stock does not decline further. However, in multispecies fisheries such as this it may not be possible to keep all species at or above the individual breeding stock target levels, with the result that minor species, i.e. whiskery sharks, may stabilise at a lower stock size. The current level of exploitation of dusky whaler sharks appears to be sustainable provided the exploitation of mature animals does not exceed 4% annually. However, anecdotal evidence seems to suggest that significant numbers of large dusky whaler sharks are now being taken by Commonwealth-managed tuna longlining vessels. There is thus an urgent need to quantify the take of sharks by the tuna longlining fleet, which would provide a basis to determine the exploitation rate of mature dusky whaler sharks.

The estimate of the value of the fishery declined substantially in 1997/98 by comparison with previous years, owing largely to a review of the prices that fishers obtain for product. The value of the fishery in 1998/99 is similar to that in 1997/98. Product values for these fisheries do not include the value of shark fins, which are not reported on catch returns. At approximately 5% of live weight, and a price of $20/kg, the estimated value of fins produced by these fisheries is $1.4 million. Environmental Risk Assessment The fishery uses sunken large-mesh gillnets to target primarily bottom-dwelling (demersal) sharks. The level of effort is such that the gear is deployed infrequently over approximately 60% of the target species’ habitat. A significant closure north of Steep Point (26ºS) and west of North-West Cape (114ºE) provides significant protection for adult whaler populations. A small percentage of the catch is now target finfish species which are generally retained for sale. There is little discarded bycatch and little impact on protected species owing to the demersal deployment of the nets. The physical impact of the gear on the bottom is minimal and the low exploitation levels permitted on the target species indicate that food chain effects are likely to be low. Overall the environmental effect of the fishery is medium to low, although competition with other users of the resources is a feature of this fishery in some sectors. General Comments Stock assessment indicates the need for further effort reductions to meet or maintain the long-term breeding stock biomass targets for whiskery and gummy sharks respectively. Management measures addressing these concerns are planned for introduction in the fisheries over

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - Northern Inland

Northern Inland Bioregion

Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1998/99: $515,000

Regional Management Overview The only commercial fisheries in the northern inland bioregion are the Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery and the riverine component of the Kimberley Gillnet and Barramundi Managed Fishery (covered under the north coast bioregion, page 57). Future management arrangements for the Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery are currently under examination.

Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The only commercial freshwater fishery in Western Australia is in Lake Argyle in the Kimberley. This fishery specifically targets catfish (silver cobbler) and is managed through a set of licensing conditions. There is a twomonth closure during the wet season breeding period of November and December. Future management measures for this fishery will include a review of the possible impact of latent effort within the fishery and a shift in the seasonal closures to better accommodate the wet season breeding period. COMPLIANCE AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUMMARY There is limited compliance activity within this fishery and compliance continues to be a low priority. There were no compliance problems encountered during 1999/2000. RESEARCH SUMMARY Data for assessing the status of this fish stock are derived from CAESS returns provided by industry. These data are analysed annually using standard fisheries models to enable the following status report to be provided for management. Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery Status Report Prepared by S. Ayvazian and G. Nowara Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited Breeding stock levels: Decreasing Previous catch projections for year 1998/99: 102-142 tonnes Catch current season (1998/99): 194.3 tonnes

Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 100-140 tonnes Boundaries and Access The fishery is contained in the impounded waters of the Ord River at Lake Argyle and on part of Lake Kununurra. During 1998/99 there were six licensees who had access to the Lake Argyle catfish fishery. Annual Production Main fishing method Gillnet. Landings The fishery developed from 1979 with increasing catches to 1988/89 (133 tonnes), then fluctuated at a lower level until 1993/94. Since 1993/94 there has been a trend towards increasing catches in this fishery, with the catch in 1998/99 being the highest catch on record. Fishing effort Nominal effort in this gillnet fishery is calculated as the total number of fishing days by all boats multiplied by the average daily total per boat of 100 m lengths of gillnet used. The fishing effort during 1998/99 was 11,321 units, which is much higher than the previous year. Catch rate Since 1983, the catch rate has remained fairly constant, although it declined in the three years from 1993/94 to 1995/96. During the past four years the CPUE has remained fairly constant at this lower level. Stock Assessment A biomass dynamics model using the catch and effort data from monthly returns is undertaken annually. A sustainable catch of approximately 120 tonnes, at 4,000 units of effort, has been estimated from the equilibrium point of the catch and effort. This assessment suggests that the stock is now being exploited at an unsustainable level by the fishing effort applied in the current year. According to the biomass dynamics model, the Lake Argyle catfish stock is considered to be unsustainable in the long term with the current levels of effort now in the fishery. However, the model makes a number of assumptions, and the available data are not sufficiently detailed to determine whether or not the assumptions are being met. Therefore, there is a high degree of uncertainty around the results of the model. The only way to reduce this uncertainty is to allocate more resources to the gathering of the necessary data from the fishery, and to gain an understanding of some key characteristics of both the fishery and biology of the species. Breeding Stock Levels Assessment of the current stock indicates that the breeding stock level may not be sufficient to maintain existing recruitment to the fishery if fishing continues at the current level.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

105

Acceptable Catch Range Next Year (1999/2000) The acceptable catch range under the current management regime is 100-140 tonnes of Lake Argyle catfish. This estimate is based on the 80% confidence limits around the average of the observed catches for the 10 years up to 1997/98. The future annual catch values which fall outside of this range will be investigated. Where consecutive values fall outside this range, alterations to management arrangements may need to be considered.

General Comments An annual research report was made available for the annual management meeting with operators in Kununurra in March 1999. The 1998/99 annual catch figure of 194 tonnes is approximately 50 tonnes above the upper limit of the catch projection. This increased level of catch reflects the dramatic increase in effort between 1997/98 and 1998/99 (Lake Argyle Figure 1). The catch per unit effort has remained stable during the past decade. If the 1999/2000 catches are outside of the acceptable catch range for next year, management action may need to be considered.

Product Value for Year 1998/99 The landed value of the catch is approximately $515,000. Environmental Risk Assessment Owing to the artificial nature of the lake environment, the environmental effect of the fishery is not significant. Similarly, although the fishery occasionally meshes protected freshwater crocodiles, this population has been ‘enhanced’ by the creation of the lake, with the result that the fishery cannot be considered to have had any significant impact on the natural population. Overall the fishery is considered to have no environmental effect.

Fish catch (tonnes)

With the introduction of licence transferability, the unused (‘latent’) effort in this fishery is of biological concern because of the specialised reproductive behaviour and the low fecundity of the species, which predisposes the stock to recruitment over-fishing. Anecdotal evidence from sectors of the Lake Argyle catfish fishing industry has indicated a decline in fish size during recent years. Until more quantitative biological and fishery data are able to be collected, the results of the model should be treated with a great deal of caution. While the current catch and effort levels are of concern, the information gained from this higher effort will enable the model outputs to be tested, but at an economic risk to the operators.

Lake Argyle Freshwater Catfish Fishery 12000

CPUE (kg/100 m net days)

250

200

Catch - tonnes CPUE - kg/100 m net days Effort - 100 m net days

10000 8000

150 6000 100 4000 50

0 87/88

2000

Effort (100 m net days)

Bioregion - Northern Inland

Commercial Fisheries

0 89/90

91/92

93/94

95/96

97/98

Year

LAKE ARGYLE FIGURE 1 The annual catch, effort and catch per unit effort (CPUE, kg/100 m net day) for the Lake Argyle Catfish Fishery over the period 1987/88 to 1998/99.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Recreational Fisheries General Overview ..............................................108 West Coast Bioregion ........................................110 Gascoyne Coast Bioregion................................119 North Coast Bioregion ......................................123 South Coast Bioregion ......................................124 Northern Inland Bioregion ................................125 Southern Inland Bioregion ................................126

General Overview

Recreational Fisheries General Overview The Recreational Fisheries Program is responsible for the management of Western Australia’s recreational fisheries and the delivery of program outcomes identified through strategic, business and operational planning. The program’s key strategic objective is to maintain or improve the quality, diversity and value of recreational fishing and ecotourism based on fish and fish habitats in Western Australia through partnerships with the community. Other major program objectives include: •

the conservation of fish stocks and their habitats of importance to recreational users;



improved individual responsibility and community support for sustainable recreational fishing; and



improved quality and diversity of opportunities for recreational fishing and activities associated with fish and the aquatic environment.

Community advice on planning and operational priorities is provided through the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RFAC) and a network of 12 Regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committees. Additional advice on specific management issues is provided through community-based working groups and public submissions collated during planning processes. Revenue raised from licence fees is credited directly to the Recreational Fishing Fund to support recreational fisheries management, research and community education activities. Licence fees contributed approximately 20% of the total operating costs of $9 million for the Recreational Fisheries Program.

Western Australia’s Recreational Fisheries Western Australia’s 12,000 km coastline, 200 nautical mile fishing zone and inland regions support nine major recreational fisheries. These are distributed between the State’s four broad marine and two inland biogeographic regions (north, Gascoyne, west and south coasts, northern inland and southern inland). From a biological perspective the boundaries of these regions are largely consistent with (or represent subsections of) the major coastal and climatic zones of Western Australia, and consequently the distribution of fish species and stocks. In addition, these regions also coincide with discrete tourism regions of the State, and visitor fishing activity tends to focus within these areas during identifiable seasons. The major recreational fisheries comprise four marine and estuarine multi-species finfish fisheries, a temperate and a tropical freshwater finfish fishery, and licensed single-species fisheries for western rock lobster, abalone and marron.

108

Recreational fishing activity occurs in four main zones: creeks and estuaries, shore-based fishing, inshore marine fishing in waters generally within the inshore reef system or three nautical miles of the coast, and an offshore fishery which targets demersal fish and pelagics such as billfish and tunas. Recreational catch and target species in each region vary significantly, as does the fishing pressure.

Threats and Opportunities Western Australia’s recreational fisheries are a major community asset, and contribute in excess of $500 million a year to the State’s economy. Since 1987 participation in recreational fishing of all kinds has more than doubled from 284,000 people to about 600,000 people a year, or from 27% to 34% of the population over 4 years old. The estimated fishing effort has also risen from an estimated 3 million fishing days to over 10 million fishing days, with the mean number of trips per fisher per year in the same period rising from 9.5 to 18. In the State’s licensed recreational fisheries a total of 60,509 people obtained licences in 1999/2000, as follows: Marron Rock lobster Abalone Netting South-west freshwater angling

22,275 licences 36,678 licences 17,481 licences 15,828 licences 14,209 licences

Of these, 10,232 people took out all categories of licence available. (All licence figures are given as at 30 June 2000.) Recreational fishing contributes to the quality of life of thousands of Western Australians and provides the basis for an important domestic market for the fishing tackle, bait, boating and vehicle manufacturing industries. Major threats to the sustainability of Western Australia’s recreational fisheries come from population growth, coastal development, improved fishing and fish storage technology, a low participation cost, and the opening of access to areas previously protected from significant levels of exploitation by their remoteness. These factors are placing unprecedented pressure on many fish stocks at all stages in their life cycle. This is compounded by human-induced environmental change, including the eutrophication of rivers and estuaries. Opportunities for maintaining and developing recreational fishing as an important community activity and regional tourism drawcard occur through growing community support for fishing as a quality experience, rather than focusing on taking large quantities of fish. Other opportunities are provided by the multi-species, regional nature of recreational fishing activities, a demand by fishers to be involved in all aspects of resource management, and fishery enhancement opportunities provided through the developing aquaculture industry, particularly for inland and some estuarine habitats.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Recreational Fisheries

Each regional strategy is being developed by a community-based working group comprising fishing, conservation and tourism interests and will include recommendations for a detailed research and management program specific to that region.

Recreational Fisheries Management A key outcome of the strategic planning process jointly carried out by Fisheries WA’s Recreational Fisheries Program and the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee is the development of four regional marine recreational fisheries management strategies, based on the State’s major biogeographic regions (Recreational Fisheries Figure 1).

This process has commenced with the Gascoyne and west coast regions and reviews of the north and south coast regions will commence in 2000/01.

These five-year strategies aim to ensure that the quality of recreational fishing available in WA is maintained or enhanced in the face of growing population pressures, and will complement management already in place for the licensed recreational fisheries and commercial fisheries.

A major review of charter fishing and associated ecotourism was undertaken by an industry-based working group established by the Minister for Fisheries. Their final report was released in November 1998 (Fisheries WA 1998).

Key elements in each strategy include the clear identification of those fish species, stocks and areas of most importance for recreational fishing, and the development of a set of ‘fishing quality’ indicators against which each plan can be reviewed.

Initial expressions of interest for applications for fishing and aquatic tour operator licences called for in early 2000 numbered over 500. At this stage over 250 licence applications have been received and are undergoing preliminary assessment.

114o 50' E

North Coast

Kununurra

Broome

Gascoyne Coast Port Hedland Onslow As

hb

Exmouth

urt o

nR i ve

Northern Inland r

Carnarvon Denham 27o S

27o S

Kalbarri Geraldton

Southern Inland West Coast

Eucla

Perth Esperance Augusta

Black Point

Albany

South Coast

115o 30' E

RECREATIONAL FISHERIES FIGURE 1 Map showing Western Australia’s major biogeographical regions.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

109

Bioregion - West Coast

Recreational Fisheries Key Achievements •

Release of draft Gascoyne regional recreational fisheries management strategy and final recommendations to Minister, including Shark Bay inner gulf pink snapper.



Completion of initial phase in fishing tour and ecotour management and licensing of operators.



Release of draft management strategy for west coast region.



Review of management arrangements for recreational abalone, marron, and trout fisheries.



Review of compliance and education strategies.



Completion of catch surveys for the Gascoyne and the south-west blue swimmer crab fisheries, and commencement of surveys for the Pilbara and inner Shark Bay.

West Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview The west coast, between Kalbarri and Augusta, attracts the highest level of recreational fishing activity in the State, with around 380,000 anglers fishing an estimated four million fishing days a year. The total effort in this area for the boating sector was estimated at 453,000 angler fishing days in 1996/97 (Sumner & Williamson 1999). Within this region the metropolitan coastal waters between Yanchep and Mandurah attract about 227,000 fishers, generating an estimated 2.4 million fishing days a year. Major species in the shore and inshore boat catch include Australian herring, whiting (several species including King George whiting), skipjack trevally, blue swimmer (manna) crabs, tailor, garfish and squid, while dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper dominate boat fishers’ target list. Estuaries including the Swan-Canning, Peel-Harvey, Leschenault and Hardy Inlet are highly popular recreational fishing areas and produce catches of black bream, cobbler, tailor, mulloway, flathead, flounder and a suite of marine species. King and river prawns also provide a highly seasonal and variable fishery in the Swan-Canning and PeelHarvey estuaries. Blue swimmer crabs are the target of WA’s largest recreational fishery, with over 80,000 participants. Major fishing areas include the Peel-Harvey Inlet, Leschenault Inlet, Cockburn Sound, Geographe Bay and Swan River. Catch surveys for these areas indicate that the total recreational catch is likely to be between 400 and 500 tonnes per year (two million crabs), with over half of this coming from the Peel-Harvey Estuary.

110



Commencement of Statewide catch survey (WA component of National Recreational Fishing Survey).



Development of recruitment indices for key west and south coast species, and biological descriptions for black snapper and Spanish mackerel.



Development of integrated management approach for coastal fisheries and initial community consultation.



Resource-sharing and management arrangements for barramundi.



Investigation of potential for restocking as a management strategy for marine or estuarine fisheries.

The recreational rock lobster fishery is concentrated in inshore regions, in depths of less than 20 m, with most fishing activity around the Perth metropolitan area and Geraldton. Fishing controls include gear restrictions, bag and size limits and protection of breeding females. In addition, a restricted fishing season operates between 15 November and 30 June and a recreational rock lobster licence is required. Recreational fishing for Roe’s abalone (Haliotis roei) takes place mainly on the inshore reef platforms between Geraldton and Augusta during the early spring and summer months when tide and weather conditions allow easy access to the reefs. Reeftops are generally regarded as nursery areas for abalone, which tend to migrate over the reef edge into deeper gutters as they mature. Consequently, there are always large numbers of under-size abalone present among the legal-size animals in the main areas where recreational fishing occurs. The Perth metropolitan and Greenough recreational abalone season commenced on Sunday 7 November 1999 and continued each Sunday only from 7.00 a.m. to 8.30 a.m. until 12 December. Fishing controls include licensing, closed seasons, closed waters, possession and size limits and gear controls. A recreational abalone licence is required to take abalone. South of Cape Naturaliste, the larger species of greenlip and brownlip abalone (Haliotis laevigata and Haliotis conicopora) are also taken in deeper water, with most fishing activity occurring from Hamelin Bay round to the south coast. Key issues facing Western Australia’s west coast recreational fisheries revolve around the growth in recreational fishing pressure, particularly on demersal fish and the inshore reef system, coastal development and environmental degradation in estuaries and nearshore waters, and competition for the available resource with the commercial wetline and demersal gillnet fleet, commercial crab fleet and commercial estuarine fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

A review of recreational fisheries management arrangements for the west coast is currently under way. A discussion paper (Fisheries Management Paper no. 139) prepared by a community-based working group was released in June 2000 for public comment (Fisheries WA 2000). Following consideration of public submissions, a final recreational fishing management strategy will be prepared for consideration by the Minister for Fisheries.

Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview Recreational compliance activities in this region targeted peak fishing periods including the rock lobster, marron and abalone seasons. Good catches of finfish were seen throughout the region, with the mid-west growing in popularity as a fishing competition destination. An increase in the level of gamefishing in the Abrolhos has seen competitors from intrastate and interstate participating in a growing national competition. Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officer activities expanded with a consolidated membership this season. Two independent teams were established in Jurien and Dongara. Mid-west volunteers attended the Abrolhos Islands and conducted liaison activities there for the first time. The inaugural Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officer (VFLO) conference was held in Jurien with over 30 people attending. The event was highly successful and followed the opening of a disabled ramp for fishers at Dongara sponsored by the Irwin Shire and the Regional RFAC. In spite of this increased VFLO presence, the general level of compliance for 1999/2000 within the recreational western rock lobster fishery was significantly down on previous seasons. Prosecution action was undertaken against a number of recreational fishers, including two charged for possession of 66 and 20 tails respectively. The take of under-size lobsters, excess bag limits, failure to tail-clip and excess pots continue to be of concern. Non-compliance appears to be in part the result of a significant increase in the number of new fishers. The management of the short recreational abalone fishery season again involved a major operation for Fisheries Officers supported by a large number of VFLOs. While the majority of the more than 10,000 licensed fishers complied with the rules, there continues to be a significant proportion who do not fish responsibly. This lack of compliance is reflected in an ongoing level of unlicensed fishing, and fishers taking abalone below minimum size or in excess of the bag limit. Nineteen persons were issued with infringement notices, and two were charged by Fisheries Officers with possession of 116 Roe’s abalone.

Research Overview Scientific information to underpin recreational fisheries management in this bioregion is provided by dedicated

Bioregion - West Coast

Additional requests have also been made in recent times for specific management controls for the proposed Jurien Bay Marine Park, Abrolhos Islands Fish Habitat Protection Area, prawn drag netting in Peel-Harvey and Leschenault inlets, and crabs in Cockburn Sound and Geographe Bay.

research projects on specifically licensed high-value species (rock lobster and abalone), and research based on commercial fisheries in the finfish sector. In addition, the estuarine and beach species have been the focus of a number of extensive studies, some undertaken by Fisheries WA researchers and others in collaboration with postgraduate students, mainly of Murdoch University. These studies have provided biological data on herring, whiting (including King George whiting), blue swimmer crabs, prawns, tailor, cobbler, black bream and other minor species. For west coast offshore boat angling species – whiting (other than King George whiting), wrasse and groper (various species), Western Australian dhufish and snapper – some biological data is also available from previous Fisheries WA studies based on the commercial fisheries, and from collaborative postgraduate research projects. Estimates of abundance for most of these recreational species are also provided by statistical information from commercial fishing recorded in the long-run CAESS database. To estimate total recreational catch and recreational/commercial catch shares in order to assess the overall status of these stocks, recreational creel survey data is required. Historically, there have been two surveys, one targeting herring in the 1970s (Lenanton & Hall 1976) and another which assessed beach angling for the lower west coast (Perth to Cape Leeuwin) (Ayvazian et al. 1997). A 12-month survey of recreational boat-based fishing from Augusta to Kalbarri was completed in 1997 (Sumner & Williamson 1999). This survey estimated the recreational catch and fishing effort for the region. The main marine species caught by boat-based fishers are (in order of number caught) whiting species (other than King George whiting) (564,000), Australian herring (425,000), blue swimmer crabs (255,000), skipjack trevally (123,000), King George whiting (94,000), squid (88,000), southern sea garfish (79,000), various species of wrasse and groper (66,000) and Western Australian dhufish (29,000) The size of the recreational catch for many of these species was of a similar magnitude to the commercial catch. These findings have highlighted the importance of proper management for recreational fisheries. A survey of recreational fishing in the Leschenault Estuary was completed in 1998 (Malseed et al. 2000). Similar surveys of the Swan-Canning and Peel-Harvey estuaries focusing mainly on the recreational catch of blue swimmer crabs were completed in 1999 (Sumner et al. 2000). Annual surveys of recreational rock lobster fishers are also undertaken, as reported by Melville-Smith and Anderton (2000). These combined surveys indicate that blue swimmer crabs and rock lobsters are the most commonly taken recreational species in this bioregion, followed by the finfish species reported by Sumner and Williamson (1999). These survey-based data, integrated with the long-run datasets from the commercial CAESS database, will provide the core information necessary for management of the most important recreational fish stocks in future.

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Bioregion - West Coast

Recreational Fisheries Recreational Western Rock Lobster Fishery RESEARCH SUMMARY General research for managing the rock lobster stock is undertaken through the Commercial Fisheries Program and reported in that section. For the recreational component of this fishery, an annual survey of participants is used to estimate the recreational catch and to produce the following status report. Recreational Western Rock Lobster Fishery Status Report Prepared by R. Melville-Smith and S. Anderton Main Features Catch current season (1998/99): 626 tonnes (estimated) Participation rate for year 1998/99: 32,768 people purchased licences to fish for lobsters, but only an estimated 26,051 utilised their licence Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 600-700 tonnes (estimated) Previous catch projection (1998/99): 550-600 tonnes (revised estimate - see General Comments) Boundaries and Access The recreational western rock lobster fishery has no specific boundaries; however, fishing is concentrated in inshore regions in depths of less than 20 m. The Perth metropolitan region and Geraldton experience the greatest fishing activity. A recreational rock lobster licence is required to take lobsters, and in the 1998/99 season 32,768 licences were sold. The 1998/99 season operated between 15 November and 30 June inclusive, except at the Abrolhos Islands where the waters were closed to diving for rock lobsters, but open for potting, between 15 March and 30 June. Catch Main fishing method Pots and diving. Landings Estimated at 626 tonnes, with 457 tonnes by potting and 169 tonnes by diving. Comparative (revised) catch estimates for 1997/98 were 346 tonnes by potting and 140 tonnes by diving. Fishing effort The average pot and diving fishers (excluding all those who held a licence but failed to use it) used their licences on 38 and 16 days respectively during the 1998/99 fishing season. Potters and divers fished on average 34 and 13 days respectively in the 1997/98 fishing season.

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Catch rate The average pot and diving catches were 1.4 and 1.8 lobsters per person per fishing day in the 1998/99 fishing season. In the 1997/98 fishing season potters and divers caught 1.2 and 2.1 lobsters per person per fishing day respectively. Stock Assessment The recreational catch is a relatively small proportion of the commercial catch (around 5%). For this reason overall stock assessments are an important focus of western rock lobster research and this information is given in the commercial fishery status report (page 5). Breeding Stock Levels See the commercial fishery status report (page 5). Acceptable Catch Range for Year 1999/2000 600-700 tonnes (estimated). Environmental Risk Assessment The environmental effects of this fishery are covered the commercial fishery status report (page 5). General Comments Recreational rock lobster catch estimates in previous State of the Fisheries reports have attempted to take into account catch reporting bias and illegal fishing activity by inflating the recreational mail survey catch data by a correction factor. However, this correction factor, originally based on a detailed catch and compliance evaluation undertaken in the 1988/89 season, is no longer directly applicable owing to a series of education programs conducted over the intervening period. These adjustments therefore are no longer being applied to the data, and consequently catch estimates reported in previous State of the Fisheries reports will not be comparable with those reported this year or in the future. The recreational rock lobster catch estimate of 626 tonnes for the 1998/99 season was the highest on record and substantially higher than the 485 tonne catch estimated for the 1997/98 season. The differences in the catches can mostly be attributed an 8.6% increase in the number of fishers using their recreational lobster licences, combined with a substantial increase in the number of days on which licence holders fished per year (up from averages of 34.5 days fished per year for pot fishers in 1997/98 to 38.1 in 1998/99, and from 13.2 days fished per year by divers in 1997/98 to 15.6 in 1998/99). In the past season, those randomly selected rock lobster licence holders who were sent mail surveys were asked to supply more information than in the past about themselves (e.g. age, gender, years of lobster fishing experience), as well as information about their ownership of or access to a boat and equipment such as GPS, echo sounders, pot winches and viewing buckets. It is anticipated that this information will continue to be collected in the future in order to monitor changes in fishing efficiency resulting from improvements in gear technology and fishing experience.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

A decade of recreational lobster surveys has shown that the season-to-season catch estimate trends closely mirror those of the southern zone of the commercial fishery (Recreational Rock Lobster Figure 1), which is not surprising given that most recreational western rock lobster fishing takes place in the area between Mandurah and Two Rocks. The most significant factors explaining this correlation are the abundance variation and the fact that recreational rock lobster licence sales fluctuate according to the strength of the year-class entering into the fishery as well as having a long-term upward trend. As might be expected, sales and associated usage figures are substantially higher in years of good recruitment, which in turn results in those years producing a higher overall recreational rock lobster catch due to a combination of increased abundance and higher fishing effort (Recreational Rock Lobster Figure 2).

Puerulus settlement indices at Alkimos, which have been shown to be a reliable predictor of future recruitment in the southern region of the commercial fishery (see page 6), have been used to predict the recreational rock lobster catch in 1999/2000. Based on exceptionally high settlement indices in 1995/96 and 1996/97, it is predicted that if the number of licences used remains at a similar level to the 1998/99 season, then the recreational rock lobster catch will increase to a record catch of around 680 tonnes in 1999/2000, with an expected decline in 2000/01 and 2001/02.

Commercial catch (tonnes)

7,500 7,000 6,500 6,000 5,500 5,000 4,500 4,000 3,500 3,000 200

400

600

Recreational catch (tonnes)

RECREATIONAL ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 1 Relationship between recreational and southern (Zone C) commercial catch, 1990/91 to 1998/99.

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Bioregion - West Coast

Recreational Fisheries

Recreational catch (tonnes)

700 600 500 400 300 200 100 15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

Licence sales

RECREATIONAL ROCK LOBSTER FIGURE 2 Relationship between total recreational catch and number of rock lobster licences sold, 1988/89 to 1998/99.

Recreational Abalone Fishery RESEARCH SUMMARY The abalone stocks that form the basis of the recreational fisheries are also those targeted by the commercial fishers. Therefore, in many areas of the State, the scientific information used for managing the recreationally fished abalone stocks comes from the catch and effort data for the commercial fishery. Two specific projects target recreational fishing in the Perth metropolitan Roe’s abalone fishery. During the recreational fishing season, surveys are conducted by Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers and research staff to collect the data used to estimate the recreational catch from the Perth metropolitan reefs. Annual research surveys are also undertaken to monitor abalone populations on six indicator reef areas within the Perth metropolitan fishery. The following status report is based on these data. In addition, a telephone survey planned for 2000/01 is designed to obtain a preliminary estimate of the recreational abalone catch in the remainder of the south and west coastal bioregions. Recreational Abalone Fishery Status Report Prepared by B. Hancock and K. Friedman Main Features Catch current season (1999): Perth metropolitan area 29.4 tonnes whole weight (estimated) Participation rate for year 1999: Whole State (including combination licences) 12,971 licences Perth metropolitan area 23,970 fisher days

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Acceptable catch and effort range next year (2000): Perth metropolitan area 25-30 tonnes whole weight (estimated) 15,000-20,000 fisher days Boundaries and Access The metropolitan area of the fishery extends from Cape Bouvard to Wedge Island. The number of recreational licences is unlimited. Access by recreational fishers to the metropolitan area is controlled by allowable fishing times (7.00 a.m. to 8.30 a.m.) and a limited season (six Sundays). The 1999 season ran from 7 November to 12 December. A minimum legal size of 60 mm and a daily bag limit of 20 Roe’s abalone is enforced throughout the State. Catch Main fishing method Picking while wading, or free diving. Landings The total recreational take from the Perth metropolitan area was estimated at 29.4 tonnes, which is 27% higher than the catch estimated for the 1998 season (Recreational Abalone Figure 1). Despite this catch being an increase on catches in 1998, there has been a major reduction in recreational fishing effort since 1995 with the introduction of a 9-hour fishing season (6 days, 1.5 hours per day) compared to a 32-hour fishing season (16 days, 2 hours per day). Fishing effort 23,970 fisher days or 3,995 fishers per day in the metropolitan area, which represents an increase of 31% over last year’s effort.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

Breeding Stock Levels Research has shown that abalone size at sexual maturity (50% of animals mature) in the Perth metropolitan area (40 mm) is below the State minimum legal size for Roe’s abalone (60 mm). This is considered to provide adequate protection for the breeding stock. In the metropolitan area, additional protection for the sub-tidal, professionally targeted breeding stock is provided by a higher minimum legal size of 70 mm for the professional sector of the fishery.

Catch rate 1.22 kg per fisher per day or 17.4 abalone per fisher per day (estimated). Stock Assessment Size distributions and densities were measured from each of six reef platforms between Penguin Island and Burns Beach. Reef areas surveyed were Burns Beach, Beaumaris, Waterman, Mettams Pool, Bailey Street and Penguin Island. Measurements were taken in January and February 1999 and 2000 (post-season) to use as an indication of the stock levels available for subsequent seasons. Post-season densities of abalone in 2000 (and 1999) were highest at Burns Beach with 110/m2 (109/m2), followed by Bailey Street 74/m2 (77/m2), Beaumaris 73/m2 (73/m2), Mettams Pool 70/m2 (72/m2) and lastly Penguin Island 66/m2 (57/m2). At sites north of Penguin Island, these figures have remained fairly stable during the last three years, with fluctuations in total densities being influenced by the strength of post-settlement recruitment.

The densities measured at all five of the currently fished reef stock assessment sites surveyed were considered to be high enough to allow an adequate flow of abalone to the breeding stock. Acceptable Catch Range for Year 2000 25-30 tonnes (estimated). Environmental Risk Assessment As a consequence of the tight controls on this fishery, particularly where it is intense on the metropolitan reefs, the target species biomass is generally maintained at a high level by the under-sized component. This appears to have prevented the development of barren areas and takeover by other species such as sea urchins which is seen in some other abalone fisheries, particularly overseas. Overall the impact of this fishery on the reef ecosystem appears to be relatively limited, noting that the fishery has been in operation for over 20 years and is now more tightly managed than in the 1980s.

Abalone densities from the two transects at Penguin Island in 2000 were similar to previous years (65, 57 and 66 abalone/m2 in 1998, 1999 and 2000 respectively). The percentage of legal-sized animals has increased from 17.8% in 1998 to 36% in 2000. The status of the area closure at Penguin Island is to be reviewed in late 2000.

Catch estimates (tonnes)

50 Licence estimate Survey estimate

40

30

20

10

0 1992

1993

1994

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

Year

RECREATIONAL ABALONE FIGURE 1 Alternative estimates of the recreational Roe’s abalone catch from the Perth metropolitan area since the introduction of recreational abalone fishing licences. Survey estimates are based on the results of research surveys conducted by Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers and staff of Fisheries WA. Licence estimates are based on an assumed catch of 20 animals of approximately 70 mm shell length, or 70 gm whole weight, on 25% of the available fishing days, by each individual licensed to participate in the recreational abalone fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - West Coast

Recreational Fisheries Recreational Blue Swimmer Crab Fishing RESEARCH SUMMARY Estimates of recreational catches are available for some regions in Western Australia, particularly the south-west, based on surveys conducted over the past five years. These include Geographe Bay with an estimated recreational take of 17.5 tonnes (1996/97), Cockburn Sound with 18.8 tonnes (1996/97), Perth south (which includes Warnbro Sound, Shoalwater Bay, Cockburn Sound to Fremantle and west of Garden Island) with an estimate of 34.7 tonnes (1996/97), and Leschenault Inlet with 45.7 tonnes (1998). Recent survey sampling (1998/99) has estimated recreational catches in the PeelHarvey Estuary to be 288.6 tonnes, and in the Swan River 7.3 tonnes. The overall recreational take in the south-west region is around 400 tonnes with some shore-based fishing not yet surveyed.

Cockburn Sound Recreational Angling RESEARCH SUMMARY Cockburn Sound provides one of the most popular sheltered recreational fishing areas in very close proximity to the Perth metropolitan area. About half of the 23 species of finfish that contributed to the 1999 commercial finfish catch are also important recreational species. They include tailor, Australian herring, trevally, King George whiting, garfish, yellowtail scad and pink snapper. Southern sea garfish contributed 41% and Australian herring contributed 25% of the total commercial finfish catch from the Sound in addition to being two of the major recreational species. According to a boat anglers’ survey conducted during 1996/97 in southern Perth waters (including Cockburn Sound), the estimated catch (in number of fish) from recreational rod and line fishers was: Australian herring 140,000; King George whiting 48,000; trevally 29,000; southern sea garfish 24,000; tailor 13,800; and pink snapper 1,200. Weights for these catches were not presented (Sumner & Williamson 1999).

Recreational Marine Angling RESEARCH SUMMARY A 12-month survey of recreational boat-based fishing from Augusta to Kalbarri, completed in 1997, has provided the most recent information on catches in this sector. These catches were, however, only part of the recreational take, as the survey did not cover beach angling or estuarine catches. The following summaries for important species are derived from Sumner and Williamson (1999). Recreational Marine Angling Figure 1 shows the fishing districts and boat fishing effort. Whiting other than King George whiting This category includes various species of whiting (Sillago spp.) such as yellow-finned whiting and western school whiting. The estimated boat catch from Augusta to

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Kalbarri for these species was 548,741 fish kept for trailered boats and 15,647 fish kept for non-trailered boats. The estimated total number of fish kept was 564,388. This excludes shore-based catches. The catch of these whiting species was highest in Perth North and Perth South where the fishing effort was highest. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting these whiting was 8.91 fish per angler trip. Australian herring The estimated boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for Australian herring was 416,657 fish kept for trailered boats and 8,243 fish kept for non-trailered boats. The estimated total number of fish kept was 424,891 (50 tonnes). The shore-based catch must also be considered which, from Perth to Cape Arid, has been estimated at 168 and 149 tonnes for 1994 and 1995 respectively (Ayvazian et al. 1997). The catch of Australian herring was highest in Perth North and Perth South where the fishing effort was highest, with more fish caught in autumn than in the other seasons. The most common size-class for fish caught was 200-209 mm. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting Australian herring was 5.96 fish per angler trip. Skipjack trevally The estimated boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for skipjack trevally was 120,439 fish kept for trailered boats and 2,217 fish kept for non-trailered boats. The estimated total number of fish kept was 122,656 (43 tonnes). The shore-based catch must also be considered but is unlikely to be significant. The catch of skipjack trevally was highest in the Busselton, Perth South and Mandurah districts, with more fish caught in winter than in the other seasons. Most fish caught were between 200 and 400 mm in length. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting skipjack trevally was 2.49 fish per angler trip. King George whiting The estimated boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for King George whiting was 93,982 fish kept for trailered boats and 447 fish kept for non-trailered boats. The estimated total number of fish kept was 94,429 (21 tonnes). There will also be a small shore-based catch. The catch of King George whiting was highest in the Perth South and Busselton districts. Many fish caught were just over the minimum size limit at the time of 250 mm. Larger fish between 370 mm and 500 mm were also caught in reasonable quantities. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting King George whiting was 2.35 fish per angler trip. Southern sea garfish The estimated boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for southern sea garfish was 77,868 fish kept for trailered boats and 1,323 fish kept for non-trailered boats. The estimated total number of fish kept was 79,191 (7.6 tonnes), excluding the shore-based catch which would be significant.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

other seasons. Most of the recreational catch was between 410 and 509 mm in length. A small number of under-size fish were kept by anglers (the minimum size limit at the time was 410 mm). The mean catch rate for anglers targeting pink snapper was 0.27 fish per angler trip.

Western Australian dhufish Although Western Australian dhufish are caught from Steep Point to the Recherche Archipelago, the survey included the area where most of the recreational catch occurs. Since the shore-based catch is negligible, the boat catch is a reasonable approximation of the total catch. The estimated trailered boat catch was 28,967 (67%) fish kept and 13,991 (33%) released. The estimated nontrailered boat catch was 304 (65%) fish kept and 161 (35%) released. The estimated total number of Western Australian dhufish kept is 29,271 (132 tonnes).

Breaksea cod The estimated recreational catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for breaksea cod was 15,883 fish kept.

The catch of Western Australian dhufish was highest in the Jurien Bay, Lancelin and Geraldton districts. Most Western Australian dhufish were caught in the summer season when the fishing effort was highest. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting Western Australian dhufish was 0.42 fish per angler trip. Of the Western Australian dhufish caught in which the sex could be determined, 361 (56%) were males and 282 (44%) were females. The catch of Western Australian dhufish in water deeper than 20 m was of interest due to the susceptibility of this species to swim bladder embolism at depths greater than 20 m. From the fishing location information collected, 70.9% of the recreational dhufish catch (both kept and released) occurred in a depth of 20 m or more. Anglers have adopted modern technology to catch dhufish. Fifty-six per cent of boats that caught dhufish had a global positioning system on board, compared with 12% for all recreational fishing boats. Sixty-one per cent of boats that caught dhufish had either a black and white or colour echosounder fitted, compared with 36% for all fishing boats. Tailor The estimated recreational boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for tailor was 26,627 fish (10 tonnes) kept. This excludes a significant shore-based catch. The catch of tailor was highest in the Perth South district. Many fish caught were just over the minimum size limit at the time of 250 mm. Larger fish between 340 and 600 mm were also caught in reasonable quantities. The mean catch rate for anglers targeting tailor was 1.73 fish per angler trip.

Bioregion - West Coast

The catch of southern sea garfish was highest in the Perth North, Perth South and Mandurah districts with more fish caught in autumn than in the other seasons. Many of the fish caught were between 270 and 309 mm. There was also a reasonable number of larger fish caught.

The catch of this species was highest in the Perth North, Perth South and Lancelin districts, with more fish caught in the summer than in the other seasons. Most of the recreational catch was between 300 and 459 mm in length. There was no minimum size limit for this species at the time of the survey. Baldchin groper The estimated recreational catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for baldchin groper was 8,466 fish (23 tonnes) kept. The catch of this species was highest in the Jurien Bay district, with most fish caught in the summer and autumn. Most fish caught were between 400 and 459 mm, however there were good catches ranging up to 619 mm. Flathead (all species) The estimated recreational boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for flathead species was 8,187 fish (5.4 tonnes). The shore-based and estuarine catches not included in the survey are likely to be significant for these species. The catch of flathead was highest in the Perth South district. Silver bream (tarwhine) The estimated recreational boat catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for silver bream was 6,083 fish (1.4 tonnes) kept. This species is also taken from the shore, which would add to the total catch. The catch of silver bream was highest in the Perth South and Mandurah districts. Most fish caught were between 190 and 269 mm in length. A large number of under-size fish of this species were kept. The legal minimum length at the time was 230 mm. Other species In addition to the major finfish species above, a significant quantity of squid were also taken by anglers. An estimated 88,000 squid were taken during the survey period, a number marginally less than King George whiting but more than garfish. This species is taken almost exclusively from boats, with only a small amount being caught from jetties.

Pink snapper The year in which the survey was conducted, 1996/97, was considered by many recreational anglers to be a poor year for pink snapper, particularly in Cockburn Sound. The estimated recreational catch from Augusta to Kalbarri for this species was 18,077 fish (27 tonnes) kept. The catch of pink snapper was highest in the Mandurah district, with more fish caught in the spring than in the

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - West Coast

Recreational Fisheries

Kalbarri

Fishing districts and the number of recreational boats fishing in each block

Port Gregory Geraldton Dongara

Jurien Lancelin

Number of boats 1200 500 1,000 2,000 5,000 10,000 15,000 -

Perth North Perth South Mandurah

N

Bunbury Busselton Augusta

RECREATIONAL MARINE ANGLING FIGURE 1 Spatial distribution of boat fishing effort in 1996/97.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

199 499 999 1,999 4,999 9,999 14,999 19,999

Regional Management Overview Recreational fishing activity in the Gascoyne has increased significantly since the early 1980s. Estimates of recreational fishing participation in the region in recent years range between 6.5% and 11% of the State’s fishers or 40,000-60,000 fishers a year (Fisheries WA 1999a). Fishing activity tends to peak between April and August each year. Most fishers stay an average of less than two weeks and intend to fish every day (Sumner & Steckis 1999). This would equate to over 300,000 fisher days each year. The majority of fishers come from Perth (60%) or rural WA (35%), with 3% being based locally and the remainder from the Eastern States. Direct expenditure by recreational fishers in the region is significant, and is estimated in the order of $50 million a year, making recreational fishing-based tourism the region’s second most valuable industry after commercial fishing. Preliminary results from a 12-month creel survey conducted by Fisheries WA in the Gascoyne region in 1998/99 (Sumner, Williamson & Malseed, in prep.) indicate that the recreational catch of all species is significant. The dominant species taken by recreational fishers and preliminary estimates of total catch from the 1998/99 creel survey include pink snapper (60 tonnes), spangled emperor (30 tonnes), black snapper (blue-lined emperor - 21 tonnes), and narrow-barred Spanish mackerel (48 tonnes). Other important species in the recreational catch include rock lobster, golden trevally, red emperor, yellow-tailed emperor, cod, cobia, mulloway, tailor, baldchin groper, coral trout and tuskfish. A review of recreational fisheries management arrangements for the Gascoyne bioregion is currently under way. A discussion paper (Fisheries WA 1999a) prepared by a community-based working group was released in May 1999 for public comment. The working group has reviewed public submissions and a recreational fishing management strategy is being finalised for consideration by the Minister for Fisheries.

Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview Fisheries Officers from Denham, Carnarvon and Exmouth District Offices conducted a combination of land and sea patrols to provide a blend of compliance and education activities throughout the Gascoyne Region. The patrol vessel John Brockman was used extensively to access both gulfs of Shark Bay, with frequent patrols carried out to incorporate Dirk Hartog, Dorre and Bernier islands. Fisheries Officers from Carnarvon concentrated considerable effort on the patrolling of mangrove creeks and rivers, following the continued increase in the number of recreational fishers catching mud crabs.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion

Exmouth District staff increased the level of patrols to Coral Bay whilst continuing to concentrate the majority of their attention on the waters of the Ningaloo Marine Park.

Research Overview Scientific information to underpin management of recreationally important fish stocks in this bioregion is provided primarily from historical Fisheries WA biological research conducted on commercial fisheries. This research has covered pink snapper, emperors (Lethrinid species) and whiting. Biological information is also being collected on tailor and on Spanish mackerel (see page 71). Owing to the increasing recreational pressure on inner Shark Bay fish stocks, two dedicated studies have been commenced to provide specific information on the status of the inner bay pink snapper and black snapper stocks. An individual stock status report has been prepared for the pink snapper. Data on recreational catches within the Gascoyne region have been collected previously in Shark Bay (Moran 1983, unpub.) and Ningaloo (Moran et al. 1996). More recently, the first full recreational creel survey for the Gascoyne bioregion was undertaken (Sumner, Williamson & Malseed, in prep.). This 12-month survey of recreational boat- and shore-based fishing from Steep Point to Exmouth Gulf was completed in March 1999. The survey estimated the recreational catch and fishing effort for the region, providing extremely useful estimates of the recreational catch of pink snapper from within the inner gulfs of Shark Bay. The recreational catch of pink snapper from the western gulf was estimated at approximately 40 tonnes. A later survey to monitor the recreational catch of pink snapper and other species in Shark Bay commenced in May 2000. This survey, funded by Fisheries WA, FRDC and World Heritage, is planned to provide catch data for a period of 24 months, including two fishing seasons.

Inner Shark Bay Recreational Fishery MANAGEMENT SUMMARY The stocks of pink snapper in the eastern and western gulfs of Shark Bay are genetically separate from each other and from the wide-ranging ocean stock. The stocks do not interbreed or ‘top up’ one another through migration. This makes them especially vulnerable to over-fishing. New management arrangements were introduced in the eastern gulf in June 1998 in response to serious concerns over the depletion of pink snapper stock and the high risk of stock collapse. These measures aimed to stabilise the fishery at current levels and rebuild the breeding stock of pink snapper to 100 tonnes. The measures included: •

a three-year ban on the take of pink snapper;



a mixed bag and landing limit of five fish implemented to protect other species (black snapper, cod, groper) from a possible transfer of effort and subsequent depletion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Recreational Fisheries Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Ongoing research has shown that adult pink snapper stocks in the western gulf have continued to decline despite management measures introduced in 1997. Major management issues include: •

a level of recreational fishing effort too high for the available snapper stocks;



recreational fishers targeting spawning aggregations when fish are easy to catch in large quantities.

A revised management package for the western gulf is currently being developed in consultation with local community to meet the following objectives: • •

rebuilding adult stock size to a minimum target of 200 tonnes from the 1999 estimate of 25 tonnes; managing a reduction in the amount of pink snapper taken in the western inner gulf by recreational fishing.

A range of options are being discussed including reduced bag limits, boat limits, increased size limits, possession limits and spawning closures. The new package is expected to be introduced in July 2000. RESEARCH SUMMARY Research to support the management of Shark Bay pink snapper (Pagrus auratus) stocks was undertaken during the 1980s and included a survey of recreational catches in 1983. This research identified genetically separate stocks in each of the Shark Bay gulfs, which were different fish from those in the oceanic areas. Concerns about increasing recreational fishing pressure on the inner gulf stocks during the early 1990s, and the outcome of a research survey for juvenile snapper in November 1996 and February 1997, resulted in the development of a detailed research project beginning in June 1997. The specific purpose of this research is to provide scientific assessments of the status of the inner bay snapper stocks for management of this key target species in the important recreational fishery within Shark Bay. A further research project to provide information on the basic biology of black snapper (Lethrinus laticaudis), the second most commonly taken target species in the inner bay area, commenced in July 1999 and will be reported in the future. The scientific information from these research projects has been used to compile this status report. Inner Shark Bay Pink Snapper Stocks Status Report Prepared by G. Jackson

Breeding stock levels: Eastern gulf Inadequate but increasing Freycinet Estuary Inadequate (locally depleted) Denham Sound Inadequate (locally depleted) Catch current season (1999): Recreational (estimated): Eastern gulf Fishery closed Western gulf No data available Commercial (estimated): Eastern gulf Fishery closed Western gulf Approximately 0.5 tonne Participation rate for year 1999: No data available; in 1998 was 34,000 fisher days (estimated) for all recreational fishing inside Shark Bay Boundaries and Access The areas of Shark Bay covered by this report comprise the sheltered inner gulf waters east of the Peron Peninsula and south of Cape Peron (the eastern gulf); west of the Peron Peninsula and south of Cape Bellefin (the Freycinet Estuary); and west of the Peron Peninsula between Cape Bellefin and Cape Inscription (Denham Sound). These latter two areas, when combined, are referred to as the western gulf (Shark Bay Recreational Figure 1). Special bag and size limits apply to recreational fishing in these areas. A full closure to fishing for pink snapper in the eastern gulf came into place in June 1998. Catch Main fishing method Recreational Rod and line. Commercial Handline, beach seine, haul net. Landings Prior to the Gascoyne recreational fishing survey (GRFS, April 1998 - March 1999), recreational catch data was lacking for both gulfs. There is some anecdotal evidence that recreational catches were low in the early 1980s, rising sharply until 1995 (particularly in the eastern gulf), but declined in 1996. For 1998, the GRFS provided estimated catch figures for pink snapper of approximately 3 tonnes for the eastern gulf (period April to June, prior to fishery closure), and approximately 38 tonnes for the western gulf (Denham Sound approximately 12 tonnes, Freycinet Estuary approximately 26 tonnes). In 1999, no survey of recreational fishing in inner gulfs was undertaken and therefore no data are available for the current year.

Main Features Stock assessment complete: Assessment of breeding stocks in two gulfs (daily egg production method) Exploitation status: Eastern gulf Fishery closed Freycinet Estuary Over-exploited Denham Sound Over-exploited

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Commercial catches of pink snapper by the nine licensed fishing units of the Shark Bay Beach Seine and Mesh Net Managed Fishery, while relatively small, indicated an upward trend in both gulfs up to 1997. In 1999, there was no catch in the eastern gulf (fishery closed) and approximately 0.5 tonne in the western gulf.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Stock Assessment In the absence of a long time-series of data for catches and recreational effort applied to inner bay snapper stocks, the assessment method adopted has been to directly assess the status of the breeding biomass and recruitment for each stock within the fishery. The ‘daily egg production method’ (DEPM) involves plankton surveys to sample snapper eggs and larvae (used to estimate ‘average’ egg production across area of spawning), and combined with information on the spawning condition of adult females, has been used to back-calculate the total biomass of spawning adults. In addition, research trawl and trap surveys are conducted to provide information on the abundance of 0+ age juvenile snapper in both gulfs.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Participation level 1999 A full-scale recreational creel survey for the Gascoyne region as a whole (the GRFS) was undertaken during the period April 1998 to March 1999. For the specific area within Shark Bay where pink snapper is the principal target species, the preliminary results from the 1998/99 survey indicated that there were approximately 34,000 fisher days expended, of which approximately 80% targeted the western gulf and oceanic stocks. Although the eastern gulf was closed to the take of pink snapper from June 1998, the effort in this sector was estimated to be 20% of the total effort expended in the inner bay. No estimates of participation level are available for 1999, however funds have been secured for recreational surveys in 2000 (currently under way) and 2001.

snapper stock is depleted both in Denham Sound and in the Freycinet Estuary, based on spawning biomass estimates and information on 0+ juveniles. General Comments In addition to the surveys on juvenile and adult abundance, the research on inner Shark Bay snapper includes segments which aim to increase understanding of the relationships among the various snapper populations in the region (genetics and tagging), and to obtain biological data on parameters such as growth rates and size at maturity for use in modelling population biology and assessing future fishery management options. The management of the depleted eastern gulf stock through a total closure appears to be appropriate for rebuilding that stock; modelling indicates a high probability that the 100 tonne management target will be reached between 2002 and 2003. Additional management measures to protect the western gulf stock, including an increase in minimum size to 50 cm, further protection of larger fish (> 70 cm), a reduction of the bag limit to two fish per day, introduction of possession limit (four fish per person) and a boat limit, and seasonal closures (to protect spawning aggregations), are scheduled to be introduced for winter 2000.

Using the above data, the spawning biomass in 1997, 1998 and 1999 has been estimated as follows: 1997 (estimated): Eastern gulf approximately 4 tonnes Western gulf Freycinet Estuary approximately 97 tonnes; no estimate for Denham Sound 1998 (estimated): Eastern gulf approximately 14 tonnes Western gulf approximately 93 tonnes (Freycinet Estuary and Denham Sound) 1999 (estimated): Eastern gulf approximately 45 tonnes Western gulf approximately 26 tonnes (Freycinet Estuary and Denham Sound) Recruitment surveys indicate that, in the eastern gulf, 0+ juveniles were less abundant in 1999 than in 1998 (although still more abundant than in 1997), while in the western gulf, higher numbers of juveniles were encountered than in the previous year (although fewer than in 1997). These data, however, need to be treated with caution owing to the limited sampling on which they were based and the inherent difficulties in estimating schooling fish abundance. The overall assessment is that the eastern gulf pink snapper stock remains depleted but that stock rebuilding is progressing, based on spawning biomass estimates and information on 0+ juvenile abundance. The western gulf

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Bernier

Is

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Recreational Fisheries

Dorre Is

Carnarvon

SHARK BAY Cape Inscription Di r k

Pe ro n

Is tog

sula nin Pe

H ar

Denham Sound

Cape Peron

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Western Gulf Denham

Cape Bellefin

Freycinet Estuary

INDIAN OCEAN

SHARK BAY RECREATIONAL FIGURE 1 Shark Bay, showing the recreational fishing areas of the inner gulfs.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Regional Management Overview In recent years the Pilbara and Kimberley regions have experienced significant growth in recreational fishing activity with a booming fishing-based tour and ecotourism industry based around the region’s reputation as remote and pristine. Creek systems, mangroves and rivers, and ocean beaches provide shore and small boat fishing for a variety of species including barramundi, tropical emperors, sea perches such as mangrove jack, trevallies, sooty grunter, threadfin, mud crabs, and cods. Offshore islands, coral reef systems and continental shelf waters provide species of major recreational interest including many members of the demersal sea perch family (Lutjanidae) such as scarlet sea perch and red emperor, cods, coral and coronation trout, sharks, trevally, tuskfish, tunas, mackerels and billfish. Recreational fishing activity shows distinct seasonal peaks, with the highest number of visitors during the winter months. An estimated 6.5% of the State’s recreational fishers fished marine waters in the north coastal region. Fishing charters and fishing tournaments are also areas of growth in the region, and have seen surges in popularity over the past five years or so. The Dampier Classic and Broome Sailfish tournaments are both State and national attractions, and Western Australia is gaining an international reputation for the quality of its offshore pelagic sport and game fishing. A review of recreational fishing in the north-west and development of a recreational fishing management strategy is expected to commence in late 2000.

Bioregion - North Coast

North Coast Bioregion

Compliance patrols focused mainly on catch and gear inspections as well as surveillance on netting activities. The level of compliance was generally high, however several netting offences were encountered.

Research Overview Scientific information to support recreationally fished stock management in the north coast bioregion has come largely from previous Fisheries WA studies focused on commercial fisheries and from collaborative projects with postgraduate students of the University of Western Australia. This research has provided good biological data on the major Lethrinid species (north-west snappers), the red emperor and some related Lutjanid species, the cods and coral trout, in the North-West Shelf sector. A new three-year research project on mackerel species will provide more biological data on these important recreational species in future years. Abundance data on these species are available from the CAESS records, and from dedicated research projects such as the database of voluntary research logbook returns from the commercial Pilbara trawl fishery. To estimate total catch by all sectors for recreational stock management purposes, creel surveys of recreational catches are required. For this purpose, a 12-month survey of recreational boat- and shore-based fishing from Exmouth Gulf to Broome, including the Dampier Archipelago, commenced in December 1999. This survey will provide estimates of the recreational catch and fishing effort for this bioregion. The results from this study will become available during 2001, and will be complemented by the State component of a telephone survey being undertaken nationally during the year 2000. These data, integrated with the long-run commercial CAESS databases, will provide the basis for ongoing management of the most important recreational stocks in this region.

Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview Recreational fishing compliance and education in the northern region was carried out by Fisheries Officers stationed in Karratha and Broome with the assistance of VFLOs from both centres. During the peak season a dedicated recreational fishing officer was based in Broome to improve the service delivery to this program. Regular patrols conducted by this officer were mainly in the local Broome area and several community awareness and education sessions were conducted with the assistance of the local VFLOs. Compliance and education in the Pilbara has also seen an increase in staff as a result of the recreational fishing creel survey which is being conducted by officers in this district. Patrols are conducted regularly between Onslow and Broome to visit regular fishing sites where recreational fishers are interviewed to gather valuable research information. Fisheries Officers in Karratha also worked closely with the VFLOs participating in several community displays in Karratha and Port Hedland.

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Bioregion - South Coast

Recreational Fisheries South Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview Recreational fishing participation for the south coast of Western Australia, between Augusta and the WA/SA border, is estimated at around 35% of recreational anglers (Baharthah & Sumner 1999), or some 190,000 anglers per year generating 1.8 million fishing. Key recreational fishing areas include the major estuaries of Walpole-Nornalup, Wilson Inlet, the Albany harbours, Bremer Bay, Hopetoun, and Stokes Inlet. Major target species in estuaries include black bream, King George whiting and trevally, while shore fishing focuses on Australian salmon, herring, whiting and trevally. Boat fishing is concentrated near major population centres with the major target species being pink snapper, queen snapper, blue groper, shark, red snapper and samson fish. Management issues include resource-sharing conflicts between the recreational line fishery and the commercial estuarine fishery, particularly in Wilson and Stokes inlets. Since 1996 a number of commercial fishing licences have been bought out in fisheries important to the recreational sector including six herring trap net licences, two salmon netting licences and eight estuarine fishing licences. A review of recreational fishing on the south coast and development of a recreational fishing management strategy is expected to commence in 2001.

Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview Several compliance issues have been highlighted, particularly in some south coast estuarine fisheries, where 12 infringements were issued. These related mainly to failure to observe the netting attendance rules when using recreational set nets. Illegal ‘shamateur’ fishing for highvalue greenlip and brownlip abalone and rock lobster is also a periodic issue.

Research Overview An extensive scientific knowledge of key recreational target species in the south coast estuarine sector has been developed from research undertaken by Fisheries WA since the 1970s (e.g. Lenanton & Hodgkin 1985, Lenanton & Potter 1987). In addition, a number of collaborative research projects have been undertaken during the 1980s and 1990s by Fisheries WA with Murdoch University postgraduate students, particularly on recreationally important species in Wilson and NornalupWalpole inlets (e.g. Potter, Hyndes & Baronie 1993, Potter & Hyndes 1994). These studies, supported by and utilising commercial fisheries catch information, have provided a good biological knowledge of the key species black bream, cobbler and King George whiting. Relevant abundance information and stock status for these recreational/commercial stocks are reported on pages 87-91.

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For the south coast beach fishery the major target species of salmon and herring are similarly known from historical and recent FRDC-funded research projects. These data, combined with long-run commercial fisheries databases for overall measures of abundance, breeding stocks etc, provide a strong basis for recreational fishing management of this key sector. Specific data to assess the impact of recreational fishing on these key stocks was provided by a survey of shore-based fishers to estimate the recreational catch of herring and salmon, completed in 1995 (Ayvazian et al. 1997). Other species targeted by beach fishers included garfish, skipjack, yellowfin whiting, southern school whiting and King George whiting. Further survey work to estimate the impact of recreational fishing on key species on the south coast is planned for the 2001/02 financial year. The significant gap in biological and fishery data in this region relates to the offshore boat angling species (e.g. trevally, queen and red snapper, blue groper and samson fish), the exception being the more abundant shark species (gummy and dusky whaler) which have been extensively researched under FRDC-funded projects (see page 102). Research for managing all three of the south coast bioregion’s recreational sectors (estuarine, beach and boat) will rely heavily on the long-run commercial fisheries databases coupled with recreational creel surveys.

Recreational Salmon and Herring Fishing RESEARCH SUMMARY The most recent recreational catch and effort data for the south coast bioregion are from an FRDC-funded shorebased recreational fishing survey conducted during 1994 and 1995 (Ayvazian et al. 1997). This survey was focused specifically on western Australian salmon and Australian herring, the two most abundant and most frequently targeted species of finfish in this region. The estimated recreational catches of western Australian salmon for 1994 and 1995 from the west coast zone were 64.3 and 55.4 tonnes respectively, from the south coast zone 64 and 103 tonnes respectively, and from the south-east zone 26 and 25 tonnes respectively. These estimated recreational catches represented 8-16% of the total (commercial and recreational) west coast catch, 4-6% of the total south coast catch and 100% of the total south-east catch. For Australian herring, the estimated recreational catches for 1994 and 1995 from the west coast zone were 100 and 108 tonnes respectively, from the south coast zone 49 and 37 tonnes respectively, and from the south-east zone 19 and 4 tonnes respectively. These estimated recreational catches represented 51-65% of the total (commercial and recreational) west coast catch, 5-9% of the total south coast catch and 86-92% of the total south-east catch.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Regional Management Overview Recreational fishing in the northern inland bioregion is largely focused on the freshwater and upper estuarine components of the barramundi stock. (Commercial barramundi fishing occurs in the lower estuarine zones and is reported on pages 57-59.) Fishing for barramundi in the pristine environment of the Kimberley is an experience highly valued by locals and tourists alike. As an icon species for recreational fishers, barramundi are an important regional tourist and lifestyle attraction. An estimated 1.6% of the State’s recreational fishers fished in the inland freshwater region. Fishing participation rates of residents are well above national and state averages.

Bioregion - Northern Inland

Northern Inland Bioregion

Research Overview Scientific information for the management of northern freshwater species, particularly barramundi, has been provided by historical Fisheries WA research projects. Some abundance data for the estuarine component of the stock can be obtained from the commercial catches recorded in CAESS and reported on pages 57-59. In addition to barramundi, Lake Argyle catfish and cherabin (freshwater prawns) are also taken in this inland bioregion. Catch and abundance data for the catfish stocks are available via the commercial fishery statistics, but no data are available for cherabin, which are not taken commercially. Recreational catch information for this region may be provided by the National Recreational Fishing Survey being undertaken in 2000.

The popularity of barramundi fishing and competition for available fish by different user groups is placing significant and growing pressure on barramundi stocks. A survey commissioned by the East Kimberley Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee and the Kimberley Development Commission in 1995/96 showed the importance of recreational fishing in the Kununurra area (Kewagama Research 1996). The 12-month survey indicated that 50% of respondents participated in recreational fishing, reporting an average of 19.6 days per angler fishing in the preceding 12 months, with a mean annual expenditure of $821 per angler. A total effort of 34,500 fishing days was estimated for the East Kimberley region, with a total expenditure of $1.1 million. In March 2000 meetings were held between members of the East and West Kimberley Regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee, the commercial fishing industry, the aquatic charter industry, Recfishwest and Fisheries WA to commence developing a management package for both the commercial and recreational sectors. A recreational fishing zone has been established in the lower Ord River to maintain the high-quality recreational fishing and aquatic ecotourism experience. Special management arrangements in this area include a minimum size limit of 55 cm, a maximum size of 80 cm and a possession limit of one barramundi per person. Major issues include the maintenance of water quality and levels in the lower Ord River, control of illegal fishing in remote areas, growth in fishing charter tours, particularly in the Broome area, and competition with the commercial sector.

Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview A two-week education and awareness patrol was conducted in the East Kimberley by a Fisheries Officer from Karratha with the assistance of VFLOs from Kununurra. The main focus was on information sessions at schools in the region, with additional activities including fishing clinics and a joint patrol with officers of the Water and Rivers Commission.

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Bioregion - Southern Inland

Recreational Fisheries Southern Inland Bioregion Regional Management Overview The major species fished recreationally in southern inland waters are native marron, trout stocked by Fisheries WA into public dams and rivers, and red-fin perch, an introduced, self-perpetuating exotic stock. The native freshwater cobbler is also taken in small numbers, as are black bream artificially stocked into some inland impoundments. The recreational fishery for Western Australia’s native freshwater crayfish, the marron (Cherax tenuimanus), operates in freshwater dams and rivers throughout the south of the State. Stocks of marron have been extended well beyond their original range through translocation, and can now be found as far north as Hutt River near Geraldton and as far east as Esperance. A recreational fishing licence is required to take marron. Other fishing controls include bag and size limits, gear controls and a closed season. The fishing season was open from midday Saturday, 8 January 2000 to midday Sunday, 29 February 2000. Major concerns with the marron fishery relate to its ability to withstand the existing level of fishing pressure, particularly in low rainfall periods. Post-season reviews are conducted regularly and can result in changes to management. In recent years, changes have included a bag limit reduction to 10 marron per day. Management also continues to emphasise snaring as the preferred method of capture in specific waterways. ‘Snare-only’ waters were first introduced in the 1990 season, and have received widespread support from fishers. A number of areas have now been set aside for snaring only. Fishing for trout and other freshwater fish species (other than for crustaceans) in waters south of latitude 29ºS requires a freshwater angling licence. People under 16 years of age are not required to hold a licence. Management controls include closed seasons and closed waters for trout spawning streams, bag and size limits and gear controls. These controls aim to protect juvenile fish and ensure the available catch is shared among anglers. The bag limit for trout is four, which is consistent with the community view of trout as a prized fish species, and also helps to distribute the stocked public resource to maximise community benefits. A trout stocking committee, established in 1994 to maximise angler returns on fish available for stocking into public waterways, continued to operate successfully during 1999/2000. The committee consists of agency officers including the manager of the South West Freshwater Research and Aquaculture Centre in Pemberton, and representatives from RFAC, the WA Trout and Freshwater Angling Association and the general freshwater angling public.

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Regional Compliance and Community Education Overview Compliance levels within the recreational marron fishery continue to improve in line with the fishing community’s understanding of regulatory requirements. Education programs and increased penalties under the Fish Resources Management Act 1994 have also contributed to the continuing trend toward greater compliance. High-profile community education campaigns were undertaken this year by a combination of local Fisheries Officers, management staff and VFLOs. Local and Statewide media resources were utilised in the weeks leading up to the open season, emphasising conservation and the unique nature of the marron fishing experience, as opposed to viewing the daily bag limit as a target. Strong media coverage of several apprehensions and subsequent court appearances prior to the commencement of the season reinforced the ramifications of non-compliance. Brochures explaining the rules were provided to licence purchasers and distributed through tackle shops, caravan parks, service stations and other outlets likely to be visited by marroners. Non-compliance related predominantly to the use of illegal equipment, mainly in relation to ‘snare only’ areas, and out-of-season fishing. Concern remains over the extent of this fishing out of season. In the freshwater angling fishery, compliance during this period was good. Increased participation and interest in the fishery has continued, both by individual fishers and through dedicated fishing competitions organised by freshwater fishing organisations. This fishery is monitored by staff from the Bunbury, Busselton and Albany districts.

Research Overview Research for managing and enhancing the State’s southern freshwater fisheries for marron and trout has been largely undertaken by Fisheries WA. In addition, collaborative university projects have provided data on red-fin perch and freshwater cobbler and their relationships to the small native freshwater fish species.

Recreational Marron Fishery RESEARCH SUMMARY Detailed research on the marron stocks in south-west rivers and estuaries was undertaken in the 1970s and 1980s. Current research involves the scientific monitoring of stock levels both before and after the summer fishing season, surveys of catches taken by recreational licence holders and joint sampling with individual catchment groups. These data enable trends in stock levels to be monitored and recommendations to be made for adjustments to fishery management when necessary. Data are reported in an annual report on the recreational marron fishery. The following status report is based on these research findings.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Main Features Catch current season (1999): (See note on season reported under General Comments) Approximately 158,000 marron overall (minimum weight 19.7 tonnes) Participation rate for year 1999: 21,330 licences issued for the 1999 season (as at April 1999), compared with 18,155 issued for the 1998 season Acceptable catch range next year (2000): 120,000-240,000 marron or 15-30 tonnes (estimated) Boundaries and Access The recreational marron fishery extends from the Hutt River north of Geraldton to waters near Esperance. There is a specific annual licence for the open season during January and February. In 1999 the season was open between 9 January and 28 February. Some waters have been declared ‘snare-only’ in order to reduce the effect of an increase in licence numbers and thus effort. These waters are: Warren River National Park (since 1990); Shannon River (1990); Margaret River (1993); Harvey Weir (1994); Wellington Dam (1996); and Samson Dam (1996). Catch Main fishing method One scoop net (preferred for dams), or six drop nets (rivers), or one snare pole (snaring only applies to some waters). Anglers can only use one gear type at a time. Dimensions and mesh sizes of the scoop and drop nets are specified in an information brochure sent annually to licence holders. All methods involve bait, which is typically layer pellets. Landings An estimated total of 158,000 legal-sized marron (minimum of 19.7 tonnes) were taken in the 1999 season (1998: 206,000 marron, 25 tonnes). Fishing effort The number of licences issued for the 1999 season was 21,330, with an estimated 13,899 of these (unusually low at 65%) used to make one or more trips, at an estimated average of 2.9 trips/licence holder. A total of approximately 40,910 trips were made, comprising an estimated 12,675 trips to dams and 26,661 trips to rivers. (1998: 52,914 total trips, with 11,787 trips to dams and 41,127 trips to rivers). Catch rate The average catch rate in 1999 was estimated at 3.84 legal-sized marron per licence holder per night (1998: 3.66). The increase in the catch rate coupled with a decrease in total catch is probably due to a decline in fishing effort in rivers in 1999.

Bioregion - Southern Inland

Recreational Marron Fishery Status Report Prepared by B. Molony

Stock Assessment As the marron fishery operates on a series of discrete river and dam stocks where growth and productivity differ, the stock assessment process treats the river and dam sectors separately. Further, stock levels are affected by rainfall patterns, with higher winter rainfall resulting in larger catches in subsequent marron seasons. Marron catch and effort data are collected and assessed from logbook records from recreational fishers, an end-of-season telephone survey of licence holders, and pre- and post-season research sampling. In 1999, there was also a pre-and post-season survey of the Blackwood River conducted by the Blackwood Basin Group and volunteers in conjunction with Fisheries WA. Total numbers of landed marron are calculated by using the mean number caught per trip from the logbook and phone survey data. This number is then multiplied by the number of active licence holders. A minimum total weight of landed marron is calculated using the average weight of a legal-sized marron (76 mm carapace length - 125 g) to convert the estimated catch in numbers to biomass. As a result, the total catch in weight may be an under-estimate as larger, and therefore heavier, marron are captured during the season. However, more precise information would only be obtained by research surveys to all marron areas (approximately 96 individual stocks), which is logistically impractical. The estimated number of trips (effort) to dams and rivers is calculated in a similar manner. Breeding Stock Levels Breeding stocks are protected from recruitment overfishing by the minimum legal size limit, gear escape meshes and the tendency for snare-fishers to target larger marron. Most females in dams are capable of breeding at least once prior to attaining legal size, while those in rivers are capable of breeding at least twice. Small animals and females carrying eggs and young are fully protected and greater emphasis was placed on compliance activities prior to the 1999 season to increase protection of the stock during the peak breeding season. Acceptable Catch Range for Year 2000 120,000-240,000 marron or 15-30 tonnes (estimated). The catch for the 2000 season is dependent on summer water levels from 1999 winter rainfall, juvenile abundance in the preceding year, and the total effort expended during the season. The expected catch in years of low rainfall can be expected to be near 15 tonnes, while in years of high rainfall it is expected to be closer to 30 tonnes. Based on climate patterns alone, the catch projection for the 2000 season is likely to be higher than for the 1999 season. Bureau of Meteorology data suggest that the expected rainfall for 2000 in the south-west of Western Australia has a 65-75% chance of exceeding the historical median rainfall for the area. However, post-season surveys of certain areas (Harvey Weir, Blackwood River) detected very low numbers of under-sized marron. Thus, fewer legal-sized marron are expected in these areas for the 2000 season. Overall, it is likely that the 2000 marron season should result in catches similar to, or slightly lower than, those from the 1999 season.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Environmental Risk Assessment The success of the recreational marron fishery in the southwest is dependent mainly upon a range of environmental variables. One of the major variables appears to be rainfall. Rainfall increases the quality of areas for marron by transporting leaf-litter into streams and by maintaining water quality. Although beneficial to marron, summer rainfall may reduce marron catches by reducing the accessibility of dams and rivers to recreational fishers.

Red-fin perch, which appear to predate heavily on small marron, have been illegally stocked into most rivers and irrigation dams in the south-west. Red-fin may be of greatest concern in irrigation dams, which generally have all structure (e.g. tree stumps) removed prior to filling and provide little shelter or protection for marron. The potential for increasing the marron survivorship rates and carrying capacity of water bodies by installing artificial structures should ideally be investigated, especially in the context of irrigation dams.

A major issue in this fishery is access to irrigation dams. The Water Corporation appears likely to close access to Stirling Dam owing to the diversion of this water to the metropolitan water supply. Thus, a redistribution of fishing effort is likely to occur and extra effort is likely to be applied to other water bodies, especially Harvey Weir.

General Comments The year of reporting (1999) is the same as that shown in last year’s State of the Fisheries report. As well as bringing this fishery into line with the standard season being reported in all other fisheries, the repetition has also permitted further analysis of the catch and effort data. In addition, an expanded telephone survey has been designed to improve the quality of the data for future seasons.

Introduced species also impact on the quality of marron fishing. The two major introduced species that impact on the marron fishery are yabbies and red-fin perch. Yabbies, a potentially serious threat to the marron fishery, have been recorded from a number of areas within the marron recreational fishery. Yabbies were introduced from the Eastern States and have escaped from farm dams or have been deliberately released into rivers and irrigation dams. The most threatening report is of yabbies in Harvey Weir, a renowned snare-only fishery. Although the impacts of yabbies on marron in large dams are unknown, biological information and previous experience suggest that they could pose a potentially serious threat as they are a direct competitor to marron. Compared with marron, yabbies mature earlier and produce many more young. As a result, they have the ability to out-compete marron in a given area, leading to a reduction in marron numbers. Yabbies can also carry diseases such as Thelohania which may be passed on to other freshwater crayfish, including marron.

The total catch of marron has shown a slow downward trend in the past five years, despite large variations in effort (trips) (Recreational Marron Figure 1). This data tends to suggest that the fishery is currently capable of producing approximately 100,000-200,000 marron per season, regardless of the total effort. However, rainfall and water levels have changed dramatically in the last five years and rainfall plays a major role in marron reproduction and growth and accessibility of water bodies by anglers. Therefore, further modelling of catch and fishing effort incorporating rainfall information is required. There has however been a gradual increase in the average size of marron being caught, which can be attributed to snare fishers selecting larger animals. As snaring allows increased breeding of marron before capture, other areas should be considered for declaration as ‘snare-only’ for the long-term maintenance of the fishery.

Catch (marron captured)

700000

70000 Catch - number of marron captured

600000

Effort - total number of trips

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RECREATIONAL MARRON FIGURE 1 Total annual recreational marron catch, 1990 to 1999.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Effort (trips)

Bioregion - Southern Inland

Recreational Fisheries

RESEARCH SUMMARY Fisheries WA Research Division projects on trout involve the production and distribution of trout fry, yearlings and excess broodstock to public waters. In addition, a number of research projects are currently being undertaken at the South West Freshwater Research and Aquaculture Centre (SWFRAC), Pemberton (formerly known as the Pemberton hatchery). A limited survey of licence holders was performed and results provided information on catch and effort within the fishery, as well as other data. Research is being undertaken to produce sterile trout with enhanced growth to provide superior angling fish. Further, comparison of the success of stocking fry versus stocking yearlings is being evaluated in several water bodies to reduce the predation rate of stocked fish, thus providing more angling opportunities. Genetic research into enhancing the quality of trout, particularly heat tolerance, from the agency’s hatchery facility is also under way, comparing the tolerances of the SWFRAC strain, a natural strain and hybrids of rainbow trout. Finally, rainbow trout yearlings have been allocated to be stocked into inland saline waters, the second year of this project. Research information from these projects and the annual report from the manager of the SWFRAC has been used to compile the following status report. Recreational Freshwater Angling Status Report Prepared by B. Molony

Bioregion - Southern Inland

Recreational Freshwater Angling

Boundaries and Access The south-west inland fishing licence includes trout, red-fin perch and freshwater cobbler (but not marron). Carp are also being reported from this fishery. Waters with public access are limited to the major rivers and Government irrigation water supply dams. The only public rivers and dams that are stocked are those with a long history of trout stocking. Private waters, mainly large gully farm dams and waterlogged and salt-affected south coast areas, are also regularly stocked by private owners as part of put-and-take trout fisheries. Rainbow trout yearlings are also being trialled for their potential in inland saline waters. Catch Main fishing method Angling with rod and line. Landings 34 tonnes. Fishing effort There were 3.24 trips per active licence. A typical trip involves approximately two hours per day for 2-10 days per year (trips were several days each). There were an estimated 20,700 fishing trips within this fishery during the 1998/99 season. Catch rate 4.3 fish captured per trip (plus 3.9 fish released per trip).

Main Features Catch current season (1998/99) (estimated): (See note on season reported under General Comments) 34 tonnes (110,100 fish), comprising: Rainbow trout: Brown trout: Red-fin perch: Native catfish:

6.8 tonnes (22,400 fish) 0.4 tonnes (1,300 fish) 26.0 tonnes (83,800 fish) 0.8 tonnes (2,600 fish)

Participation rate: South-west freshwater angling licences (including umbrella licences): 1998/99

1997/98

11,906 (valid licences as of 19 April 1999; information from the Fisheries licensing system). This represents an increase in licence numbers of approximately 15% from 1997/98 numbers 10,332

Approximately 53.6% of licence holders participated in the fishery, producing approximately 20,700 fishing trips Acceptable catch range next year (1999/2000): 25-35 tonnes

Stock Assessment Enhanced rainbow and brown trout are produced at the SWFRAC and stocked into public waters as breeding in south-west dams and rivers by trout is negligible. A total of 276,000 rainbow trout fry and 50,000 brown trout fry from the SWFRAC were stocked into public waters during 1998. In addition, 81,000 rainbow trout fry were sold to private dam owners for tourist fishing and private club fishing and 75,000 rainbow trout fry were sold to commercial producers. Older fish were also produced and sold from the SWFRAC during the year. Approximately 10,000 rainbow trout yearlings were produced and stocked into the public fishery, while ex-broodstock rainbow trout entering their second and third years of life (770 and 790 fish respectively) were also stocked into the recreational fishery for the 1998/99 season. Breeding Stock Levels Trout need stock enhancement by hatchery releases in most waters as there is very little natural breeding due to high summer temperatures and limited nesting areas. Native cobbler are self-sustaining. Introduced red-fin perch breed and grow rapidly but tend to over-populate waterways and stunt within a few years. Red-fin appear to be spreading due to deliberate release in waterways that were previously free of the species. There appears to be an increase in the range of red-fin which may impinge on the breeding success of native species and survival of trout. Carp are also being reported in this fishery, and their distribution and numbers are likely to increase due to accidental escapes and deliberate releases.

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Bioregion - Southern Inland

Recreational Fisheries Acceptable Catch Range for Year 1999/2000 25-35 tonnes. An increase is likely due to extra stocking efforts, particularly of trout yearlings, and better than average rainfall leading to increased survival. Environmental Comments The extent and success of the freshwater angling fishery in the south-west is dependent mainly upon availability of high-quality fresh waters for stocking. The viability of water is dependent on rainfall and access to irrigation dams. In 1999/2000 the rainfall was well above average and summer rains are likely to have increased the survivorship of stocked trout. A major issue in this fishery is access to irrigation dams. The Water Corporation appears likely to close access to Stirling Dam owing to the diversion of this water to the metropolitan water supply. Thus, a redistribution of fishing effort is likely to occur and extra effort is likely to be applied to other water bodies. Introduced species, especially red-fin perch, also impact on the quality of trout fishing. Red-fin quickly establish in most waterways and appear to prey heavily on young stages of trout (fry). There are now very few water bodies that are free of red-fin as a result of accidental and deliberate stocking. Of major concern is the release of small red-fin back into waterways by anglers. From the survey results, an estimated 61,400 red-fin were retained in the 1998/99 angling season while 22,400 were captured and released. The significant release rate suggests that many red-fin are small and supports the idea that red-fin populations tend to ‘stunt’ after several generations. Anglers should be encouraged not to return any red-fin to the waterways.

A major trial comparing the genetically isolated ‘hatchery line’ with a self-sustaining population unaffected by release programs for several decades (the ‘Serpentine line’), and a ‘hybrid’ of the two lines, identified better survivorship at high temperatures, higher growth rates and behavioural differences in the ‘hatchery line’. These results suggest that the ‘hatchery line’ is better able to survive conditions within Western Australia, particularly where trout are stocked. Further analyses of the data will occur during 2000/01. Restocking programs may also be influenced in the future by a translocation evaluation of the environmental impact of trout stocking, initiated in 1997/98. The translocation document is now being finalised. Stocking success will also be affected by the distribution and spread of red-fin perch as these fish prey directly on young trout. Collection of information comparing fry and yearling stocking is expected to occur in 2000. Following the success of the first survey, a second mail survey will be conducted in regard to the 1999/2000 season. The survey is likely to become an annual occurrence to allow the comparison of research and recreational data. It is likely that a telephone survey will also be commenced.

The general condition of most rivers makes certain areas unsuitable for trout. Stock access, cleared banks and de-snagging of streams all reduce the quality of the stream for trout and other aquatic species. Rehabilitation projects in the USA have produced better stream quality and better angling and similar initiatives may be considered in Western Australia, particularly in irrigation dams. General Comments The year of reporting (1998/99) is the same as that shown in last year’s State of the Fisheries report. As well as bringing this fishery into line with the standard season being reported in all other fisheries, the repetition has also enabled new survey data to be incorporated to assess the magnitude of this fishery. The stocking of trout in public waters throughout the south-west supports a significant and growing recreational sport fishery which adds substantially to the region’s tourism value. Similarly, private stocking of privately owned dams in the south-west supports a specialist tourist sector by providing quality pay-fishing opportunities. The installation of eight cooling towers at the SWFRAC has been completed and future mortality of broodstock due to high water temperatures during hot summers is likely to be negligible.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Pearling and Aquaculture General Overview ..............................................132 West Coast Bioregion ........................................133 Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ..............................135 North Coast Bioregion ......................................136 South Coast Bioregion ......................................142 Northern Inland Bioregion ................................143 Southern Inland Bioregion ................................144

General Overview

Pearling and Aquaculture General Overview The State’s commercial aquaculture industry continued to be dominated by South Sea pearl production in the north, algae production for beta carotene on the west coast and freshwater crayfish and mussels in the south. Development continued to increase for species such as non-maxima pearl oysters, edible oysters and abalone.

Pearling Activities The culture of pearl oysters of the species Pinctada maxima has been a major success. Centred on Broome, the pearling industry has operated since the 1880s, initially as a source of mother-of-pearl and more recently as Australia’s largest and most successful aquaculture sector, producing quality South Sea pearls. The industry has continued to develop with a sound management base, with farms operating from Exmouth Gulf through to the Northern Territory border. Live oysters from Western Australia are also traditionally used to stock farms in the Northern Territory.

Other Aquaculture Activities The level of activity and interest in aquaculture continued with a diverse range of aquaculture enterprises operating throughout Western Australia. These included the production of algae for beta carotene, mussels, yabbies, marron and freshwater finfish. Development work and commercial production continued for marine finfish, abalone, edible oysters, pearl oysters of the species Pinctada albina and Pinctada margaritifera and trochus. Prawn farming is considered to have excellent potential, with one farm site already licensed and the assessment of two others proceeding. Work was also completed in securing an alternative site for mussel farming in Cockburn Sound. Better genetic strain, feeds and stock management were developed for yabby farming.

Aquaculture Development Initiative During 1994, the Minister for Fisheries announced an aquaculture development initiative, supported by funding of $4.5 million over three years. Financial support for the initiative was subsequently extended with a further $8 million for the years 1997/98 to 2000/01. During 1999/2000, the agency continued to implement this initiative. Key activities included the expansion of joint aquaculture research infrastructure with the Fremantle Maritime Centre. An aquaculture plan for the Abrolhos Islands was finalised and a final draft plan prepared for the Recherche Archipelago. A large number of licence applications for species such as yabbies, marron and freshwater finfish continued to be assessed for freehold land. Significant resources were directed to the public consultation and assessment process for coastal water applications under Ministerial Policy Guideline no. 8. Work also focused on the preparation of guidelines for the granting of aquaculture leases, drafting of lease documentation and administrative work associated with translocation and shellfish quality assurance. Aquaculture development in regional areas focused on the provision of extension services and technical advice to existing operators and prospective investors supplemented with specialist technical advice from research staff. This work was undertaken predominantly by regionally based Development Officers. A specific development initiative for the Kimberley region with a particular focus on Lake Argyle proceeded to an Expression of Interest process. Fostering of Aboriginal aquaculture was also a major activity, particularly with participation in more marine hatcheries. The agency maintained strong linkages with peak industry bodies and the relevant management advisory committees. Twenty-seven projects were supported through the Aquaculture Development Fund (ADF) during 1999/2000, utilising funds in excess of $360,000.

Key Achievements

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Continued implementation of the Government aquaculture development strategy.



Expansion of aquaculture research team closely linked to industry and external research funding.



Alternative site for mussel farming in Cockburn Sound secured.



Success with using Western Australian agricultural products in aquaculture feeds.



Aquaculture plan for the Abrolhos Islands completed together with a final draft plan for the Recherche Archipelago.



Revision and expansion of entire set of ‘Aquaculture WA’ and other major advisory publications on key aquaculture species.



Commissioning of experimental sea cage facility.



Gazettal of pearling regulation amendments.



Call for Expressions of Interest for a developer to obtain necessary approvals to undertake largescale aquaculture at Lake Argyle.



Finalisation of review report of pearling legislation under National Competition Policy agreements.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

During 1998/99, the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) approved the export status of three shellfish growing areas in Western Australia, including Cockburn Sound, in accordance with the procedures outlined in the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Program. The program is conducted jointly with industry, AQIS and the WA Health Department. The program involves regular sampling of bivalve shellfish-growing areas for toxic algae and faecal coliform bacteria. Activities during 1999/2000 included classification of the new growing area in Cockburn Sound. The program not only protects exports but ensures that the growing areas remain pristine and are regularly monitored for potential pollutants.

West Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview The principal aquaculture activity in the west coast bioregion is the production of blue mussels (Mytilus edulis). Fisheries WA manages mussel farming in Cockburn Sound in accordance with an agreement between the Minister for Fisheries and the Fremantle Port Authority. Tenure for the existing farming sites at the Kwinana Grain Terminal expired in December 1999 and Fisheries WA secured an alternative farming site at Southern Flats within Cockburn Sound. Production has now commenced at this site.

West Coast Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the major licensed aquaculture sites in this bioregion.

27o S

Kalbarri

Geraldton

West Coast

Perth

Augusta Legend

Black Point

Aquaculture sites

115o 30' E

WEST COAST AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the major licensed aquaculture sites of the west coast bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - West Coast

Pearling and Aquaculture Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview Compliance activities were focused on ensuring the successful relocation of mussel farms to Southern Flats and adherence to licence conditions. In particular, resources were directed at ensuring compliance with navigational marking requirements, boundaries of leases and correct procedures for translocation of fish species. Resources also continued to be directed to shellfish quality assurance within Cockburn Sound. Extension activities included public enquiries, participation in a highly successful mussel festival at Rockingham, and assistance with the preparation of an aquaculture plan for the Abrolhos Islands.

Regional Research Overview Around Perth, activities include joint research with Fremantle Maritime Centre (FMC) on marine finfish and abalone aquaculture. A further collaborative project with FMC and Agriculture WA, with funding support from the Grains Research and Development Corporation, involves the evaluation of local agricultural products such as lupins in aquaculture feeds. Joint work with Curtin University (funded by the ADF and FRDC) is aimed at rearing rock lobster larvae and assessing the potential for collecting wild pre-juveniles (puerulus). Joint research with other universities is fostering husbandry, disease and nutritional research for marine aquaculture. Activities further north include joint farming trials on Roe’s abalone with TAFE and Fishermen’s Cooperative organisations at Geraldton.

Annual Production Production method(s) Vertical rope and bag culture on longlines. Production trends for year 1999/2000 Increasing. Environmental Risk Assessment Low risk because there is no addition of feeds. Faecal wastes are far less likely to cause high organic loadings on the sea bed in Western Australia than in other mussel industries, as mussel lines are more widely separated in response to low food levels. (A joint research project supported by the FRDC and the ADF is assessing this potential impact, as noted on page 142.) General Comments Production levels for this species are related to dissolved nutrient levels which provide the basis for phytoplankton, the main food of mussels. Productive areas are therefore generally protected waters where nutrients from terrestrial sources raise the food levels above those in coastal waters dominated by the low-nutrient, tropical Leeuwin Current. Sea-based abalone farming has been identified, through pilot-scale trials funded by the ADF, as an alternative use for protected sites where food levels are too low for mussel farming.

Mussel Farming Mussel Farming Status Report Main Features Production current season (1998/99): 683 tonnes Number of producers for year 1998/99: 14 Estimated annual value (to producers) for year 1998/99: $1.8 million Production projection next year (1999/2000): 800 tonnes Production Areas Mussel farms are found in Cockburn Sound and Warnbro Sound (as well as in the Albany harbours and King George Sound in the south coast bioregion). Resourcesharing issues are a major constraint to securing additional sites in protected and productive areas. Additional area has been negotiated in the Southern Flats area of Cockburn Sound to give the Cockburn Sound mussel farmers more secure access to productive growing areas.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Regional Management Overview The Gascoyne coast bioregion includes the areas of Denham, Carnarvon and Exmouth. Coastal aquaculture activity is focused principally on the production of pearls and pearl oysters of the species Pinctada margaritifera, Pinctada albina and Pteria penguin. Management activities have encompassed the development of policies for the pearl oyster industry including permitted distances between sites, hatchery protocols and policies for the collection of broodstock and spat.

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Gascoyne Coast Bioregion

Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview Compliance activities were focused primarily on site inspections to ensure compliance with licence conditions. Extension work included assistance in relation to the identification of a site for pearl production in Shark Bay.

Regional Research Overview Collaboration has been initiated on tropical marine aquarium fish research near Exmouth.

Gascoyne Coast Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the major licensed aquaculture sites in this bioregion.

114o 50' E

ur to n hb As r ve Ri

Gascoyne Coast Exmouth

Legend Aquaculture sites

Carnarvon

Denham

27o S

GASCOYNE COAST AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the major licensed aquaculture sites of the Gascoyne coast bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

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Bioregion - North Coast

Pearling and Aquaculture North Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview The north coast bioregion is dominated by the production of pearls from the species Pinctada maxima. Activities within the industry range from the hatchery production of oysters suitable for the seeding of round pearls to the fishing of wild stock oysters for the culturing of pearls on a large number of pearl leases situated in the waters of the State. Pearl oyster farms are predominantly situated in sheltered waters and range from Exmouth Gulf to the northern waters of the Kimberley. One company generally transports its wild stock quota to the Northern Territory for the culturing process, however this company has begun to develop the necessary pearl farm infrastructure in the north Kimberley area to allow farming in Western Australia. Pearl farm lease applications are assessed through a public consultation process in accordance with Ministerial Policy Guideline no. 8. The assessment of pearl farm lease applications continued to be a major activity in 1999/2000. The wild stock pearl oyster fishery is managed on a system of individual quotas with a total allowable catch (TAC). The status of stocks is reviewed each year by Fisheries WA in liaison with the Pearling Industry Advisory Committee (PIAC). During 1999/2000, the TAC for the 2000 fishing season for Zone 2/3 was 502,500 shells (one quota unit equals 1,100 shells). The status of stocks in Zone 1 was also reviewed. A total allowable catch of 40,000 shells for the Exmouth Gulf component of the Zone 1 fishery was set for the 2000 fishing season. A maximum size limit of 140 mm was also continued for shell taken in Exmouth Gulf to ensure

that any residual animals following fishing in a season were not open to future exploitation and flowed through to the breeding stock. These arrangements were similar to those in 1999. The seeding of hatchery-produced oysters was continued by some companies through licensees utilising hatchery options available to industry. The annual production for pearls for 1998/99 was estimated at about $181 million. This is expected to rise for 1999/2000, however production figures are not yet available. The agency, with the Pearl Producers’ Association and PIAC, dealt with a number of other issues during 1999/2000, including budget development and management, operational planning and management of pest incursions. PIAC met on two occasions. A series of regulation amendments were introduced in January 2000 and drafting continued for a new Pearling Act. A review report under National Competition Policy agreements was finalised. Other aquaculture management initiatives in the north coast bioregion were focused on pearl production for Pinctada margaritifera and reef reseeding for trochus and other reeftop molluscs. Significant resources were also directed to a prawn proposal for the Wyndham area. Assessment of a prawn proposal in the Derby area also continued. A licence has already been granted for a prawn production site at Exmouth and construction for the project is expected commence in late 2000. North Coast Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the major licensed aquaculture sites in this bioregion.

114o 50' E

North Coast Kununurra

Broome

Port Hedland Legend Aquaculture sites

Onslow Ashburton River

NORTH COAST AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the major licensed aquaculture sites of the north coast bioregion.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

During 1999/2000, a staff commitment equivalent to 4.6 officers based in Broome and Karratha delivered the compliance program monitoring across all zones of the pearl oyster fishery. Companies have continued to increase production of hatchery-reared shell and the compliance focus shift to the monitoring and control of this product has increased. Major compliance issues are the verification of shell numbers and size prior to seeding operations, and the movement of hatchery shell within and also between farms. Regular nursery site audits are conducted to monitor hatchery shell growout and to verify progress for the conversion of hatchery options to hatchery quota. Approvals to allow the use of hatchery shell for technician training and for mantle tissue in seeding operations have also increased compliance requirements in this area. Several companies have now converted their hatchery options to quota and there has been an increase in the quantity of hatchery-reared shell being used for seeding operations in lieu of wild stock. Quotas continued to be monitored through a combination of quota tags and a paper audit trail using catch, dump, transport and seeding operations logbooks submitted by licensees to the agency.

Bioregion - North Coast

Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview

FRDC-funded research initiated in 1998 is continuing to undertake research into the mother-of-pearl (MOP) component of the pearl oyster stocks (pearl oysters > 170 mm shell size). A new FRDC project which seeks to determine an index of recruitment for the pearl oyster fishery by assessing settlement of spat of P. maxima on adult oysters (piggyback spat) will begin in mid-2000. The Division’s fish pathology group also provides a comprehensive disease testing program to monitor ‘health’ issues within the industry. The major aquaculture activity has been the establishment of a pilot-scale trochus hatchery at One Arm Point to provide stock for assessing the effectiveness of enhancing reefs near King Sound, as part of an international project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission and the ADF. The last two groups have also assisted Fisheries WA and TAFE at Broome with the development of an aboriginal aquaculture training initiative. Fisheries WA has helped fund hatchery production trials with barramundi at TAFE in Broome. Research staff based in this region have undertaken national and international liaison to assess the feasibility of establishing a southern bluefin tuna hatchery in Australia.

Pearl Oyster Fishery RESEARCH SUMMARY

The production and translocation of hatchery-produced pearl oysters is monitored by the system of hatchery and transport logbooks combined with a system for disease testing, quarantine and health certificate clearances. Conversion of hatchery options to hatchery quota is monitored by a combination of operations logbooks, nursery and operations audits, and at-sea compliance presence during operations. Field officers based in Karratha and Broome patrolled from Exmouth Gulf (Zone 1) to the Kimberley development zone (Zone 4). Patrols to verify compliance with tagging and associated logbook systems utilised diving inspections, aircraft, both large and small agency patrol vessels and industry boats. The majority of at-sea inspections and patrols were carried out using the joint agency (Fisheries WA and Department of Transport) ocean-going patrol vessel Walcott, with small agency vessels being used as dive platforms.

Regional Research Overview The pearl oyster fishery of Western Australia accesses silver-lipped pearl oysters, Pinctada maxima, in shallow coastal waters along Western Australia’s North-West Shelf. There are currently 16 licences operating in the fishery, with a total of 12-16 vessels fishing for pearl oysters in any given year. The fishery is separated into four zones (Pearl Figure 1), and each licence is allocated an individual shell quota as part of an overall total allowable catch. Research for managing the pearl oyster stocks utilises detailed diver logbook records (catch and effort), at-sea sampling of catches and information gathered during research projects. This information is used annually to monitor the status of the stocks and to review and set catch quotas.

Pearl Oyster Fishery Status Report Prepared by K. Friedman and C. Skepper Main Features Stock assessment complete: Yes Exploitation status: Fully exploited (within management parameters of diver safety and maximisation of value of pearl crop) Breeding stock levels: Increasing (MOP harvests ceased 1986/87) Previous catch and effort projections for year 1999: 572,000 shell (quota for all zones) over an estimated 18,000-25,000 dive hours (based on a pro rata effort range over five-year period 1994-1998) Catch and effort current season (1999): All zones: Quota: 572,000 shell Landed: 548,256 shell taken over 15,088 dive hours; 36.3 shells per hour Zone 2/3: Quota: Landed: Zone 1: Quota: Landed:

457,000 shell 457,842 shell taken over 10,299 dive hours; 44.4 shells per hour 115,000 shell 90,414 shell taken over 4,789 dive hours; 18.9 shells per hour

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Bioregion - North Coast

Pearling and Aquaculture Estimated annual value (to fishers) for year 1999: Total fishery and cultured pearl valued at approximately $182 million Catch and effort projection next year (2000): All zones: Quota: 617,700 shell Take: 572,700 shell to be taken over an estimated 15,331-22,599 dive hours Zone 2/3: Quota: Take: Zone 1: Quota: Take:

502,700 shell 502,700 shell to be taken over an estimated 12,003-16,576 dive hours 115,00 shell 70,000 shell to be taken over an estimated 3,328-6,023 dive hours. Note: Only 70,000 of the 115,000 quota is to be taken as one fisher proposes to transfer his wild shell quota to hatchery production

(Note: all estimates based on a pro rata effort range over the five-year period 1994-1998)

Boundaries and Access The four management zones (Pearl Figure 1) of the pearl oyster fishery are listed below. Pearl Oyster Zone 1: 5 licensees - NW Cape (including Exmouth Gulf) to longitude 119°30′E. Pearl Oyster Zone 2: 9 licensees - East of Cape Thouin (118°10′E) and south of latitude 18°14′S. Note: full access for Zone 2 licence holders to Zone 3.

Pearl Oyster Zone 3: 2 licensees - West of longitude 125°20′E and north of latitude 18°14′S. Note: partial access for Zone 3 licence holders to Zone 2.

Pearl Oyster Zone 4: East of longitude 125°20′E to WA/NT border. Note: although all licensees have access to this zone, exploratory fishing has shown that stocks in this area are not viable. However, pearl farming does occur.

Annual Production Main fishing method Diving. Landings The total allowable catch (TAC) is controlled by a quota system. In 1999 the TAC for the pearl oyster fishery of north-western Western Australia was 572,000 shell. The bulk of these landings were taken from Zone 2/3, which comprised 83% of the fishery. Zone 2/3 has for the last two years (1998 and 1999) been allocated a 457,000 shell TAC, which is 55,000 shell less than the allocation between 1995 and 1997. The increased allocation between 1995 and 1997 was issued due to an indication of increased stock abundance through significantly elevated catch rates. The reported catch for Zone 2/3 in the 1999 season was 457,842 shell (Pearl Table 1).

138

Zone 1 of the pearl fishery had a TAC of 115,000 shell for 1999. The reported catch in Zone 1 of 90,414 shell (Pearl Table 2) was below this allocation as one licensee chose to use hatchery-reared shell in preference to wild stock in the 1999 season. Fishing effort Total effort for 1999 in all zones was 15,088 dive hours. The total effort for 1999 in Zone 2/3 was 10,299 dive hours, which represented a 29% decrease on the 1998 Zone 2/3 effort of 14,500 dive hours. This reduction was mainly due to a high catch rate experienced in Zone 2/3 in 1999 (Pearl Table 1). The total effort in Zone 1 during 1999 was 4,789 dive hours, representing a 21% decrease on the 1998 total effort of 6,094 dive hours. This reduction was partially due to the lower catch taken in Zone 1 compared to that in 1998 (Pearl Table 2). Catch rate The catch rate for the pearl oyster fishery (all zones) was 36.3 shells per dive hour (shells/hr). This rate is predominantly influenced by catch rates in Zone 2/3 where landings constitute the majority of the fishery. Catch per unit effort in Zone 2/3 in 1999 was the highest ever recorded at 44.4 shells/hr, which represented a significant increase on the 1998 catch rate of 31.5 shells/hr, and a 50% increase on the 10-year (1988-1997) average of 29.5 shells/hr (see Pearl Table 1). This improvement in catch rates was not spread equally between Zones 2 and 3. In Zone 2, the catch rate was 48.32 shells/hr, while the catch rate in Zone 3 alone was 27.16 shells/hr. The increase in catch rate when compared to historical records is somewhat tempered by the increased efficiency of industry vessels which have adopted GPS and ‘plotter’ technology. However, on the other hand, potential gains realised through use of technology may have been negated by the more stringent shell grading methods applied by a large sector of the industry in recent years. These changes have resulted in operators taking only the smaller size classes of the shell which may legally be collected by divers, as they are considered more suitable for pearl culture. The Zone 1 catch per unit effort was 18.9 shells/hr in 1999, which represented a slight increase of 7% from the 1998 figure of 17.7 shells/hr (Pearl Table 2). Effort in 1998 and 1999 has shifted from Exmouth Gulf to the buffer zone extension, a previously under-utilised area of the fishery. The Port Hedland region in the northern sector of Zone 1 (which includes the buffer zone) was the source of 75% of the catch in 1999 (54% greater than the 1990-1997 average), while Exmouth Gulf in the south yielded 23% (34% less than the 1990-1997 average). As was seen in Zone 2/3, the variation in catch rates has also differed across Zone 1. Whereas catch rates in the Port Hedland region fell from 26.4 shells/hr in 1998 to 18.8 shells/hr in 1999, the catch rate in Exmouth Gulf (southern sector of the Zone 1 fishery) increased from 11 shells/hr in 1998 to 19.3 shells/hr in 1999. Stock Assessment The primary measure of stock availability is catch per unit effort. In Zone 2/3 the high level of catch rate recorded in

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

The state of the fishery is of primary importance when one considers changes in catch per unit effort. As with most bivalve fisheries, the P. maxima fishery is characterised by large variability in recruitment. The high catch rates recorded in 1999 are undoubtedly partially due to a large pulse of recruits passing through the size range targeted by the fishery. This pulse of recruitment can be attributed to broodstock protection (a larger capacity for gamete production and increased fertilisation success), and/or the presence of favourable environmental conditions for larval and juvenile development. In addition to having suitable environmental conditions for larval development, settlement and juvenile growth, the weather conditions were unusually settled during the peak diving periods in 1999. This gave better than usual access to shallow-water pearling patches and presented the divers with exceptional visibility. In addition to the favourable influence of environmental conditions, catch per unit effort is also influenced through the use of modern technology such as GPS and ‘plotters’. It is suggested that technologies such as these have allowed more effective targeting of pearl patches by the pearling fleet. Overall, the catch-rate data indicate that recruitment to the Zone 2/3 pearl oyster stock is at a level sufficient to maintain stock levels, permitting safe and economic fishing operations. Within Zone 2/3 there is, however, a history of differential catch rates between major fishing areas. For example, although catch rates in Zone 3 were higher than those recorded in Zone 2 during 1994-1996 (peaking at 50.2 shells/hr in 1995), catch rates were lower in Zone 3 than in Zone 2 in 1999, suggesting that the factors responsible for the increased catch rates in Zone 2 were not as apparent in Zone 3 in this season (1999). The distribution of catch and effort in Zone 1 in 1999 was similar to that recorded in 1998 as a result of management decisions designed to reduce fishing pressure in Exmouth Gulf. These decisions involved setting a TAC of 40,000 shell for Exmouth Gulf, and extending the Zone 1 buffer zone 30 miles east to allow operators access to previously under-utilised grounds in the southern areas of Zone 2. As a result total shell caught in the Port Hedland region remained high (75% of Zone 1 catch - 67,712 shell), with the vast majority of shell caught in the buffer zone extension. An area of concern is the decline in catch rate in the buffer zone, from 26.4 shells/hr in 1998 to 18.8 shells/hr in 1999. Although this decline is to be expected due to the fact that unfished built-up stock was available in 1998, the fact that catches continue to include a large proportion of larger legal size-classes in length frequency recordings suggests that catches are continuing to rely somewhat on remnant shell. Any further fall in catch rates in the north of Zone 1 will need to be monitored closely. Very little fishing took place in the

Bioregion - North Coast

recent years (1994-1996 and 1999) had previously only been experienced during the late 1970s and early 1980s when the pearling fleet was fishing both culture and mother-of-pearl shell. The increased catch rates in 1999 are believed to have resulted from high abundance, favourable diving conditions and the influence of changes in industry practices.

Onslow/Dampier area and traditional Port Hedland grounds of Zone 1 during 1999, although catch rates from these areas were higher than in 1998. Catch rates in Exmouth Gulf improved from 11 shells/hr in 1998 to 19.3 shells/hr in 1999. This increase is somewhat tempered by a 38.8% decrease in catch taken from Exmouth Gulf (20,683 shell taken in 1999). The 1998 management changes in Zone 1, which have been successful in reducing heavy fishing pressure and the steady decline of catch rates in Exmouth Gulf, will be retained during the 2000 season to limit effort and encourage the rebuilding of pearl oyster stocks in that area. Breeding Stock Levels As P. maxima are protandrous hermaphrodites, oyster stocks do not have a full complement of females until shell sizes reach approximately 180 mm. Pearl oyster fishers prefer to harvest oysters between 120 and 165 mm shell size, hence the larger oysters usually remain in the fishery as breeding stock. The current annual quota for the fishery is less than the annual recruitment of oysters, therefore the breeding stock is most likely being maintained or increased. This is especially true for Zone 2/3 which has seen excellent recruitment in recent years. Current management arrangements for Exmouth Gulf in the southern sector of Zone 1 are designed to ensure that breeding stocks in that sector are improved in the longer term. In contrast, heavy fishing pressure on some pearling patches in the northern sector of Zone 1 could have a negative effect on broodstock populations if flow-through of recruits to broodstock sizes was limited by high fishing effort. Any continued decline in catches in the northern sector of Zone 1 will require the implementation of more stringent management arrangements to ensure that ‘healthy’ broodstock populations are maintained. Catch Projection for Year 2000 Catch figures in Zone 2/3 showed a significantly elevated catch rate in 1999, above the generally agreed threshold which triggers a quota increase. Owing to this indication of increased stock abundance, the 2000 quota for Zone 2/3 has been increased by 10% to 502,700 shell. It is expected that Zone 2/3 of the pearl oyster fishery should achieve its 2000 quota within or below the five-year range (1994-1998) of 12,003-16,576 dive hours given the higher catch rates expected. If the elevated catches in 1999 were taken into account, one would expect from experience (1994-1996) that the 2000 catch rate will continue to be high, reflecting the protracted time period that an elevated pulse of recruits takes to pass through the targeted sizeclasses of the fishery. Zone 1 is expected to achieve a catch of 70,000 shell within the five-year (1994-1998) range of 3,328-6,023 dive hours (based on a pro rata effort estimation for 70,000 shell). As was highlighted in the summary, only 70,000 shell (of the 115,000 shell TAC) is to be caught from wild shell stocks in 2000, with the remainder of the quota to be taken from hatchery production. Any increase in the number of wild stock caught will increase the number of dive hours required to achieve the quota.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

139

Bioregion - North Coast

Pearling and Aquaculture Product Value for Year 1999 The value of cultured pearls and by-products is considered to be approximately $182 million for the 1999 year. A precise estimate of the value of product is, however, difficult to achieve due to the variable time lags between time of harvest and sale to offshore buyers and the costs incurred in marketing before sales occur.

Overall the fishery has minimal effect on the North-West Shelf ecosystem. Similarly, the pearl farming operation, which uses longline systems to culture pearls, has limited impact on the environment. Physical effects are limited to static anchoring systems in typically sand/mud habitats. General Comments The pearl oyster stocks underpinning the fishery in Zone 2 (74% of total pearl oyster catch in 1999) continue to provide an elevated level of production to support this major Western Australian industry. The provision to Zone 1 operators of access to previously unexploited areas in the Port Hedland sector has provided improved catches in the short term, however the reliability of recruitment in the area is still unknown, and will not be known for a number of years. If catches cannot be maintained, this zone will possibly need to rely on hatchery-produced shell from the facilities established for that purpose, and work on a reduced wild stock catch quota.

Environmental Risk Assessment Pearl oyster drift diving occurs over a small proportion of the pearl oyster habitat of the north-west coast. Divers selectively target commercial-sized pearl oysters, and do not inadvertently harvest any bycatch in their normal fishing activities. Four to six divers operate from ‘drifting’ fishing vessels which operate during periods of minimal tidal movement (neap tides) over a six-month period, generally from January to July each year. The fishery operates at relatively low exploitation rates and targets a restricted component of the size composition suitable for culture purposes. As a consequence the fishery is unlikely to have any effect on the food chain in the habitat and has minimal direct impact on the sea floor and its sparse benthic fauna.

Zone 4

Lacepede Is.

Broome

Zone 2 Zone 1

80 Mile Beach Port Hedland

Exmouth Gulf

Zone 1: Zone 2: Zone 3: Zone 4:

Main fishing areas NW Cape - 119o30' E Cape Thouin - Sandy Point (18o14' S) Sandy Point - 125o20' E 125o20' - NT Border

PEARL FIGURE 1 Distribution of pearl oyster stocks and fishing zones in WA.

140

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

NT Border

Buffer Zone

Zone 3

Bioregion - North Coast

PEARL TABLE 1 Pearl shell catch and effort - Broome area (Zone 2/3). Year

Quota

No. of culture shells

No. of MOP shells

Total shells

Dive hours

Culture shells/hr

MOP shells/hr

Total shells/hr

1978

-

404,952

146,692

551,644

10,583

38.3

13.9

52.1

1979

-

371,806

355,599

727,405

16,068

23.1

22.1

45.3

1980

-

364,502

260,714

625,216

18,568

19.6

14.0

33.7

1981

-

481,193

210,649

691,842

23,320

20.6

9.0

29.7

1982

460,000

439,092

132,931

572,023

15,710

27.9

8.5

36.4

1983

520,000

365,381

87,049

452,430

19,019

19.2

4.6

23.8

1984

375,000

242,828

47,230

290,058

11,615

20.9

4.1

25.0

1985

342,000

272,869

53,831

326,700

12,423

21.0

4.3

26.3

1986

360,000

337,566

10,929

348,495

16,478

20.5

0.7

21.2

1987

380,000

365,397

0

365,397

17,476

20.9

0

20.9

1988

445,000

379,657

0

379,657

14,600

26.0

0

26.0

1989

445,000

445,364

0

445,364

18,625

23.9

0

23.9

1990

457,000

453,705

0

453,705

23,263

19.5

0

19.5

1991

457,000

460,608

0

460,608

21,657

21.3

0

21.3

1992

457,000

461,599

0

461,599

19,455

23.7

0

23.7

1993

457,000

457,186

0

457,186

14,733

31.0

0

31.0

1994

457,000

456,832

0

456,832

12,384

36.9

0

36.9

1995

512,000

511,633

0

511,633

12,217

41.9

0

41.9

1996

512,000

511,756

0

511,756

12,774

40.1

0

40.1

1997

512,000

512,314

0

512,314

16,893

30.3

0

30.3

1998

457,000

457,266

0

457,266

14,499

31.5

0

31.5

1999

457,000

457,842

0

457,842

10,300

44.4

0

44.4

PEARL TABLE 2 Pearl shell catch and effort in Zone 1 since the 1993 quota increase. Year

Quota

No. of culture shells

No. of MOP shells

1993

115,000

79,465

0

1994

115,000

132,316

1995

115,000

1996

Total shells

Dive hours

Culture shells/hr

MOP shells/hr

Total shells/hr

79,465

2,395

33.2

0

33.2

0

132,316

6,291

21.0

0

21.0

121,312

0

121,312

6,247

19.4

0

19.4

115,000

80,163

0

80,163

5,013

16.0

0

16.0

1997

115,000

110,348

0

110,348

9,494

11.6

0

11.6

1998

115,000

108,056

0

108,056

6,094

17.7

0

17.7

1999

115,000

90,414

0

90,414

4,789

18.9

0

18.9

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

141

Bioregion - South Coast

Pearling and Aquaculture Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview

South Coast Bioregion Regional Management Overview

Regional officers conducted site inspections to ensure compliance with licence conditions and, in particular, site marking requirements. Officers were also involved in supervising the sampling of waters and shellfish and monitoring harvesting closures as part of the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Program. Extension activities were focused principally on public enquiries and planning in relation to aquaculture development at Wilson Inlet.

The south coast bioregion encompasses the major centres of Albany and Esperance. Aquaculture activity in the region is focused at Albany and includes commercial mussel and edible oyster production and trial abalone production. Management activities were directed at management of the Albany Aquaculture Park in which two sites are leased for abalone and edible oysters. Additional applications for mussel farming in King George Sound were assessed through the public consultation process. Administrative oversight of the WA Shellfish Quality Assurance Program was continued. Aquaculture planning continued for Wilson Inlet. Activity in the Esperance area related principally to the drafting of an aquaculture plan for the Recherche Archipelago.

Regional Research Overview A major research activity has been the evaluation of greenlip and Roe’s abalone in various farming systems managed jointly by Fisheries WA and industry, with financial support from the ADF. Performance of greenlip abalone in sea-based culture near Albany has been extremely encouraging. Assessment of the potential environmental impact of mussel farming on benthic habitats, supported by Fisheries WA, FRDC and ADF, has been initiated near Albany, with initial results due in the second half of 2000.

South Coast Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the major licensed aquaculture sites in this bioregion.

Legend

Eucla

Aquaculture sites

Perth

Esperance Augusta Black Point 115o 30' E

Bremer Bay Albany

South Coast

SOUTH COAST AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the major licensed aquaculture sites of the south coast bioregion.

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - Northern Inland

Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview

Northern Inland Bioregion Regional Management Overview Management activity in the northern inland bioregion has focused on a proposal for large-scale aquaculture development at Lake Argyle. The Lake Argyle initiative has included extensive work in relation to site selection, environmental feasibility and market assessment. Expressions of Interest have now been called for participation in the project with a particular focus on barramundi. The project was launched in Bangkok and marketed at the World Aquaculture Society Conference in France and at the Belgium Seafood Expo. It is expected that a preferred developer or developers will be selected by the end of 2000. Other management activities included the provision of technical advice in relation to the production of redclaw crayfish, aquarium fish, sooty grunter and barramundi by landholders on the Ord irrigation system around Kununurra. Northern Inland Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the major licensed aquaculture sites in this bioregion.

Aquaculture Development Officers were stationed in Broome and Kununurra. Their focus was directed to the production of juvenile barramundi in liaison with the Broome TAFE, inspection of properties for their suitability for the production of redclaw crayfish, and the establishment of aquaculture research facilities at the Frank Wise Institute of Tropical Research at Kununurra. Extension work included the provision of assistance to the Gascoyne Inland Aquaculture Group which is looking at the production of inland finfish in artesian waters. Ongoing technical advice was also provided in response to public enquiries.

Regional Research Overview Research staff have contributed to efforts to develop a risk assessment of barramundi farming in Lake Argyle and assisted a barramundi hatchery nearby. Interaction with Aboriginal communities has included establishing a pilot farming trial with sooty grunter.

114o 50' E

Kununurra Lake Argyle Derby Broome

Anna Plains

Legend Port Hedland

Aquaculture sites

Karratha Onslow As

Exmouth

hb

ur t

on

Northern Inland R iv er

Carnarvon Denham 27o S

27o S

NORTHERN INLAND AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the major licensed aquaculture sites of the northern inland bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

143

Bioregion - Northern Inland / Southern Inland

Pearling and Aquaculture Barramundi Farming Barramundi Farming Status Report Main Features Production current season (1998/99): Confidential but significant part of a Statewide freshwater finfish farming industry of 25 tonnes Number of producers for year 1998/99: 1 Estimated annual value (to producers) for year 1998/99: Not reportable Production projection next year (1999/2000): Not available Production Areas Barramundi farming is largely restricted to cages within Lake Argyle, however potential exists for sea cage farming, inland saline farming in ponds, cage culture in freshwater ponds and intensive recirculating culture systems using fresh water, inland saline water or sea water.

Southern Inland Bioregion Regional Management Overview The southern inland bioregion is dominated by production of marron, yabbies and freshwater finfish. Management and licensing arrangements have not changed significantly over the past year. In 1999, the presence of the protozoan parasite Thelohania, previously known only in Eastern States yabbies, was detected in Western Australian stocks. Following investigation of the outbreak, it was determined that the disease had become widespread in Western Australia and is likely to have been within the State for a number of years. Arrangements for ongoing management of Thelohania were finalised during 1999/2000. The disease incident was an opportunity to implement the agency’s emergency response plan which was being developed with industry. Lessons learned have been incorporated into the response plan. Trout ova and fry from the South West Freshwater Research and Aquaculture Centre (SWFRAC) at Pemberton were provided to freshwater trout farmers and yearlings were made available to growers using inland saline waters.

Annual Production

The production of a wide range of freshwater and marine ornamental fish species is a small but rapidly growing sector of the aquaculture industry in Western Australia. Improved extension material highlighting the opportunity for these species as candidates for aquaculture was produced in 1999.

Production method(s) Intensive production in cages in Lake Argyle.

Southern Inland Aquaculture Figure 1 shows the extent of sites in this bioregion.

Production Confidential.

Regional Compliance/ Extension Overview

Environmental Risk Assessment Medium risk. Cages within protected coastal areas and lakes can be operated with low environmental impact if appropriately located in deeper water with good current flow and if modern feeding practices and feed design are used which minimise uneaten food and soluble nutrient release. Land-based farms producing more than 1 tonne require discharge licensing including monitoring of water quality. Fisheries WA recommends use of swirl separators to improve the quality of this discharge prior to release or reuse.

South-west freshwater aquaculture industries are serviced by Fisheries Officers based in Esperance, Albany, Bunbury, Mandurah and Fremantle to ensure continuation of a high level of awareness of, and compliance with, management rules. An Aquaculture Development Officer stationed at Albany provides an extension service to farmers as well as providing displays and information at country shows and workshops. For 1999/2000 there was a particular focus on the production of trout in inland saline waters, with extensive resources being directed to providing development and extension assistance to farmers. Research staff based at Perth and Pemberton also provided advice to many farmers.

General Comments This industry has the potential to grow very significantly particularly in Lake Argyle.

Regional Research Overview Research activities have focused on work to assist marron, yabby and rainbow trout farming industries and to produce yearling trout at the SWFRAC for inland saline farming trials throughout the region. An analysis of harvest data from 36 marron ponds was particularly rewarding as it showed that while some farmers were under-performing, others were producing excellent harvest. Quantitative analysis of the factors influencing production strongly supported agency extension advice on increasing feed rates and providing paddle-wheel aeration, refuges and bird protection. A major feed trial with industry has, so far, indicated that feed quality is not the limiting factor.

144

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - Southern Inland

Yabby research supported by the FRDC and the ADF has shown that Western Australian yabbies are shallow burrowers and that while diseases do occur, their health profile is very good by world standards for freshwater crayfish. Both attributes are helpful for export marketing. A cost-effective diet that yabby growers can produce onfarm was developed, based largely on WA feed ingredients. About 20 yabby farmers participated in a logbook program that allowed researchers to promote the adoption of other research results by industry. Upgrading of production facilities at the SWFRAC allowed production of about 15,000 yearlings for inland saline trials. Research trials confirmed that selective breeding there over many years has produced a fastgrowing strain of rainbow trout that has unusually good high-temperature tolerance. This strain was provided for the inland saline trials.

27o S

27o S

Kalbarri

Southern Inland Geraldton

Eucla Perth

Esperance Augusta Black Point 115o 30' E

Albany Approximate extent of aquaculture sites

SOUTHERN INLAND AQUACULTURE FIGURE 1 Map showing the approximate extent of aquaculture sites in the southern inland bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

145

Bioregion - Southern Inland

Pearling and Aquaculture Marron Farming Marron Farming Status Report

Yabby Farming Yabby Farming Status Report

Main Features

Main Features

Production current season (1998/99): 42 tonnes

Production current season (1998/99): 165 tonnes

Number of producers for year 1998/99: 197

Number of producers for year 1998/99: 24 (licensed farmers or processors - most farmers do not require licences)

Estimated annual value (to producers) for year 1998/99: $1.03 million Production projection next year (1999/2000): 50-60 tonnes

1998/99: $1.6 million Production projection next year (1999/2000): 250-300 tonnes

Production Areas Licensed purpose-built farms extend from Esperance to Hutt River north of Geraldton, though the bulk of farms are concentrated in the higher-rainfall south-west coastal area. Two types of marron licence are available. Those farmers with a large pond area or production can sell marron of any length. Others are limited to selling legalsized marron only.

Production Areas Yabbies are an introduced species and so for translocation reasons, the licensed commercial yabby farming industry is restricted to the drier inland developed agricultural area of the south-west, to the north of Perth and to the east of Albany. Agricultural farmers may sell yabbies without a licence to licensed farmers/processors.

Annual Production

Annual Production

Production method(s) Semi-intensive farming in purpose-built earthen ponds; extensive farming in gully dams.

Production method(s) Harvesting of farm dams by baited traps.

Production The average industry annual yield of 600 kg/ha compares with 1,500-2,300 kg/ha/year from well constructed and managed semi-intensive ponds. For farm dams, the annual yield is about 100 kg/ha. Environmental Risk Assessment Low risk because there is relatively little water discharged from marron farms. Fisheries WA recommends use of settlement and reed ponds to improve the quality of this discharge for reuse on the farm. A demonstration facility including settlement and reed ponds has been constructed at the SWFRAC. General Comments A significant number of new purpose-built marron farms have been developed during 1999 and other existing farms have constructed more ponds. This should progressively contribute to expansion in State production. Development of a new farm to full production usually requires around three years. Many of these new farms will utilise the increased processing capacity now available through a private processor operating from a facility on leased land at the SWFRAC. This processing group is now providing a coordinated marketing arrangement for many of the new producers.

146

Estimated annual value (to producers) for year

Production Extensive farming; self-sustaining farm dam populations; annual farm dam yields average 400-500 kg/ha. Production trends Increasing, subject to annual rainfall, to 350 tonnes by year 2000/01. Average size of yabbies harvested is also increasing and this will increase the value of the industry. Environmental Risk Assessment Low risk because negligible amounts of water are discharged from yabby farms. As the yabby farming industry is located away from the marron zone, it poses little threat to marron fisheries, which are more at risk from anglers using live yabbies for bait (discouraged) and landholders within the marron zone stocking yabbies in dams on a non-commercial basis. General Comments The annual production was approaching 300 tonnes in 1993/94, but then declined in 1994 and 1995 due to poor winter rainfall to refill farm dams. Stocks recovered after the above-average rainfall of 1996. The strategic plan for development aims at increasing farmer participation and increasing the low or inconsistent production of many dams. The discovery of the parasite Thelohania in a variety of farms was a major setback in 1998/99 although it posed no threat to consumers. Production data for the first six months

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Trout Farming Trout Farming Status Report Main Features Production current season (1998/99): Confidential but significant part of a Statewide freshwater finfish farming industry of 25 tonnes. Number of producers for year 1998/99: 5 Estimated annual value (to producers) for year 1998/99: Not reportable Production projection next year (1999/2000): Not available Production Areas Intensive trout culture is confined to the lower south-west by summer water temperatures and limited by the need for a large through-put volume of water. Potential exists to expand production by the utilisation of irrigation dam water in transit to agricultural farms on the south-west coastal plain. In addition, farmers with saline underground water are evaluating the performance of rainbow trout, stocked as yearlings and grown out in dams during cooler months.

Bioregion - Southern Inland

of 1999/2000 indicate that the industry has recovered well from this setback. Prospects for the industry are very good as research results are adopted by industry (e.g. monosex growout, improved feeding regimes and regular trapping).

low risk to public waterways as inadvertent release from land-based farms is low and there are few localities in Western Australia where escapees could reproduce. General Comments The SWFRAC trout hatchery provides support for the commercial trout farming industry as a by-product of producing trout fry for recreational stocking programs. Fry are also supplied to private buyers who stock private dams within tourist complexes. Trout sold via tourist fishing ventures do not appear within the commercial production records, although they add significant commercial benefits to that sector and the regional economy. There is a trend for major trout producers to move towards tourist fishing ventures, effectively ‘adding value’ to the trout grown in these systems. While there is no reliable method of estimating the value of this sector, its tourism value within the south-west may be similar to that of the trout grown for the general fish market trade. Inland saline farming trials based on growing yearling rainbow trout to table size have been promising and may help the industry recover to earlier production peaks (more than 40 tonnes per year).

Ornamental Fish Farming Ornamental Fish Farming Status Report Main Features Production current season (1998/99): 120,000 fish Number of producers for year 1998/99: 12 Estimated annual value (to producers) for year

Annual Production Production method(s) Highly intensive pond culture for food, and extensive farming in large gully dams stocked for pay fishing. Production Up to 30 tonnes/ha/year in dedicated ponds; up to 1.5 tonnes/ha/year in nutrient-rich dams can be achieved. Environmental Risk Assessment Low/medium risk. Farms producing more than one tonne require discharge licensing including monitoring of water quality. Fisheries WA recommends use of swirl separators to improve the quality of this discharge prior to release or reuse. A demonstration facility including a swirl separator has been constructed at the SWFRAC. Discharge water from the swirl separator has been similar to intake water for the farm. Inland saline trials usually involve little discharge and farms developed in the future to utilise high flow rates of pumped underground saline water can use swirl separators to improve water quality prior to enacting current discharge patterns. A translocation review is ongoing, particularly for direct stocking of trout into public fisheries. Trout farms pose a

1998/99: $170,000 Production projection next year (1999/2000): 150,000-200,000 fish Production Areas Statewide. Annual Production Production method(s) Dedicated small ponds and aquaria; breeding and rearing of juveniles for live sales. Environmental Risk Assessment Low risk because there is relatively little water discharged from ornamental fish farms. Operators are required to ensure that stock does not escape into natural waterways. General Comments Commercial production recorded for 1998/99 indicated considerable volatility in production for major aquarium fish groups.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

147

148

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection General Overview ..............................................150 West Coast Bioregion ........................................151 Gascoyne Coast Bioregion ..............................154 North Coast Bioregion ......................................156 South Coast Bioregion ......................................157 Northern Inland Bioregion ................................158 Southern Inland Bioregion ................................158

General Overview

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection General Overview The aquatic environment of Western Australia supports a range of outstanding recreational fishing, commercial fishing, pearling and aquaculture industries. These activities all depend upon a healthy environment for their continuing success. The Western Australian Government is committed to the conservation of the aquatic environment so that it may be used and enjoyed for generations to come. The Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program coordinates the agency’s role in the protection of the marine estuarine and riverine environments as required by the Government’s fisheries policy. Activities relevant at a bioregional level are discussed in the appropriate sections which follow. Progress towards Statewide initiatives is reported below.

Fishcare WA Community groups and organisations are encouraged to play an active role in the management and conservation of the State’s fish and fish habitats through the State Fishcare WA program and the National Fisheries Action Program. A total of 10 Fishcare WA projects valued at almost $30,000 and six Fisheries Action Program projects valued in excess of $195,000 were funded in the 1999/2000 period. This brings the total value of all grants made to Western Australian projects under the two programs since 1996 to $948,268.

Areas of the waters of Western Australian may be reserved as fish habit protection areas (FHPAs) pursuant to Section 115 of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994. These areas are vested in the Minister for Fisheries and may be established for a number of purposes including the protection of the aquatic environment, protection of fish, and education. Before a FHPA can be established a draft plan of management must be prepared and a public consultation process undertaken. The Minister has wide powers which enable him to regulate to control or prohibit fishing activity. He may also regulate to prohibit other human activities which may harm or alter the environment. The waters of the Abrolhos Islands are reserved as a FHPA and others are being considered near Lancelin Island, Cottesloe and Miaboolya Beach. Fisheries regulations may also be used to limit or prohibit fishing in specific locations to enable people to observe a part of the marine environment which is not affected by fishing. These areas are often established at the request of local communities and are described as reef-protected areas (RPAs). Reef protected areas exist at a number of locations around WA including Cowaramup Bay, Esperance jetty and Yallingup reef.

Marine Environments

Four of the 10 new Fishcare WA projects provide benefits across a number of bioregions. These are:

Successful collaborations between Fisheries WA and industry, community and other stakeholder groups continued throughout the year to ensure the protection of fish and fish habitat. Major achievements were as follows:



‘Learning to Fish’ – learning circle project (Mandurah Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers).





Breeding of western pygmy perch (Edelia vittata) at Fremantle Maritime Centre (Murdoch University).

Fisheries WA contributed to the report of the National Taskforce on the Prevention of Marine Pest Incursions. It also produced an education and identification kit for possible marine aquatic invaders and launched the ‘Feral Peril’ program in June 2000.



Community education on the requirements for recreational fishing habitats (Recfishwest).





‘Going Crabbing’ – an educational crabbing booklet for children.

A geographic information system was further progressed to assist in developing our understanding of the marine environment. The system, developed by Fisheries WA in collaboration with the Department of Transport, presents information on 65 fisheries including commercial licence areas, principal fishing areas, closed areas, fishing seasons, annual catch and value and species distribution in Western Australian and Commonwealth waters.

Two of the six new Fisheries Action Program projects provide benefits across a number of bioregions. These are: •



Dragon Search – a community-based seadragon monitoring project (Australian Marine Conservation Society). WA Fisheries Action Program coordinator.

Other projects were regionally based and are described below in the relevant bioregion section.

Marine Reserves and Marine Planning Fisheries WA continued working with the Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) to implement the Government’s marine reserves program. Both the Minister for Fisheries and Fisheries WA have a vital role in these processes. Fisheries WA manages fishing, pearling and aquaculture in all marine reserves.

150

Fisheries WA is working with other relevant agencies and the Coastal Zone Council to develop an ‘all of Government’ approach to marine planning.

ESD Assessment of WA Fisheries Fisheries WA staff have taken a lead role in the development of a national framework for reporting on fisheries within the context of ecologically sustainable development (ESD). The development of the ESD framework is being prepared at the direction of the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture. Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program staff are liaising with other State fisheries and environmental agencies to develop a framework which satisfies the needs of all interest groups. A central pillar of the ESD reporting framework will be an independent third-party auditing process which will ensure the public has confidence in the outcomes.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast

Fisheries WA reporting on fisheries performance is currently subject to an independent annual audit by the Office of the Auditor General. The agency is working with the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority which has agreed to provide independent review of the new ESD process.

West Coast Bioregion Environmental Management Overview Significant achievements toward environmental management of fishing in the west coast bioregion during 1999/2000 included Fisheries WA’s contribution towards the preparation of plans for the proposed Jurien Bay Marine Park. Fisheries WA is working with CALM and the Department of Transport to develop a joint proposal for resource sharing to provide cost-efficient and effective management of the proposed marine park. During the year Fisheries WA worked with the Marine Conservation Society to prepare a draft plan of management for a proposed fish habitat protection area (FHPA) in the lagoon on the western side of Lancelin Island. The agency also advised the Cottesloe Marine Protection Group which prepared a draft plan of management for a proposed FHPA for the reef system at Cottesloe. Both of these areas were identified by community groups who considered them important for educational purposes and expressed a willingness to take a lead role in their stewardship. Management of the Abrolhos Islands continued to be progressed with the assistance of the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee in accordance with the approved management plan released in December 1998. Significant progress towards the management plan strategies was made in the following areas: •

A major reef health baseline data project has been developed to provide a strategic approach to the conduct of reef health science initiatives at the Islands. This project is an important precursor to the sustainable use and development of the Islands and surrounding waters.



A final plan for aquaculture in the Abrolhos Islands was released by the Executive Director, Fisheries WA, in June 2000.



A public moorings program has been developed to increase protection of sensitive and fragile reef habitats by providing environmentally friendly moorings in key locations for use by the public and marine charter operators. Installation of the moorings is expected to be completed in 2000.



Additional major works have been carried out at East Wallabi Island airstrip to provide a parking area for light aircraft as well as upgrading the airstrip at North Island. These works cost a total of $150,000.



The draft plan for sustainable tourism at the Abrolhos Islands is expected to be released in late 2000. The plan provides for increased public access to the Abrolhos in a manner consistent with the need to conserve and protect the environment.



Work has commenced on the draft bycatch action plan for the Abrolhos Islands and Mid-West Trawl Managed Fishery.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

151

Bioregion - West Coast

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Three new Fishcare WA projects were funded in the west coast bioregion. These were: •

Protection of Cottesloe reefs and coastal waters (Cottesloe Marine Protection Group).



Remote thrombolite viewing facilities (Rockingham Regional Environment Centre).



Yallingup reef survey (Dunsborough Primary School).

Fish Habitat Protection Overview On the west coast, marine habitats are largely protected from any physical impact of fishing by extensive closures to trawling, the only permitted fishing method which can significantly affect the sea floor. Essentially, all seagrass habitats are protected, with trawling limited to sand areas inhabited by target species such as scallops (West Coast Habitat Protection Figure 1). In addition, habitat protection is provided by specific FHPAs, reef protected areas (RPAs) and marine parks in sensitive areas (West Coast Habitat Protection Figure 2).

27o S

Kalbarri

Abrolhos Islands

Geraldton

West Coast

Perth

Legend Extended seasonal trawl closure Permanently closed to trawling 200 m contour

Augusta Black Point 115o 30' E

WEST COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 1 Map showing areas of permanent and extended seasonal closures to trawl fishing in the west coast bioregion.

152

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - West Coast 27o S

Kalbarri

Abrolhos FHPA

Geraldton

West Coast Jurien Bay Marine Park

Jurien Bay

Proposed Lancelin Island FHPA Marmion Marine Park Perth Proposed Cottesloe Reef FHPA Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

Legend Fish habitat protection areas Reef protected areas

The Swan RPA Yallingup RPA Cowaramup RPA

Augusta Black Point

Marine parks 115o 30' E

WEST COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 2 Map showing current and proposed areas of protected fish habitat in the west coast bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

153

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Gascoyne Coast Bioregion Environmental Management Overview

the last two years. Work has also commenced on draft bycatch action plans for the Shark Bay Scallop Managed Fishery and the Exmouth Gulf Prawn Managed Fishery.

Significant achievements toward environmental management of fishing in the Gascoyne coast bioregion during 1999/2000 included Fisheries WA’s input to the plans for the Ningaloo Marine Park.

Work commenced on the preparation of a draft plan of management for a proposed FHPA for Miaboolya Beach at Carnarvon.

A draft bycatch action plan for the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery was released for industry comment. Bycatch reduction devices were introduced into the fleet to eliminate large animals like sharks and rays from the nets. In addition, fish escape devices were used for the first time. These outcomes are the result of research and consultation processes with industry which have been taking place during

The Gascoyne Region Fisheries Environmental Management Review (FEMR) was prepared. The review describes the fish resources of the region and the pressures which may effect them. It also describes how Fisheries WA will work to protect these resources from undesirable change resulting from human activities. This strategy is the first of five regional FEMRs which will be prepared by the agency.

114o 50' E

ur to n hb As r ve Ri

Gascoyne Coast Exmouth

23o 34'S

Carnarvon

Denham Legend Permanent trawl closure area

27o S

GASCOYNE COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 1 Map showing areas permanently closed to trawl fishing in the Gascoyne coast bioregion.

154

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000



Urgent assessment of a reported shark pupping area north of Coral Bay (Australian Marine Conservation Society).



Biology of giant shovelnose ray in Shark Bay (Murdoch University).

Two new Fisheries Action Program projects were also funded in this region. These were: •

Extent and status of inner Shark Bay snapper stocks.



Monitoring and rebuilding of snapper stocks in Shark Bay.

Fish Habitat Protection Overview In the Gascoyne bioregion, sensitive habitats in the main embayments have been closed to trawling to protect prawn nursery areas. Similarly, the whole sector offshore from Ningaloo Reef has been closed following an evaluation of fish trawling in the area (Gascoyne Coast Habitat Protection Figure 1). The bioregion also has significant marine parks (Ningaloo and Shark Bay) in environmentally significant areas (Gascoyne Coast Habitat Protection Figure 2).

114o 50' E

Legend

Ningaloo Marine Park

r ve Ri

Marine parks and marine nature reserves

ur to n hb As

Fish habitat protection areas Reef protected areas

Bioregion - Gascoyne Coast

Two new Fishcare WA projects were funded in the Gascoyne coast bioregion. These were:

Exmouth

Point Quobba-Red Bluff RPA

Proposed Miaboolya Beach FHPA Shark Bay Marine Park (including Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve)

Gascoyne Coast

Carnarvon

Denham

27o S

GASCOYNE COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 2 Map showing current and proposed areas of protected fish habitat in the Gascoyne coast bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

155

Bioregion - North Coast

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection North Coast Bioregion Environmental Management Overview Significant achievements toward environmental management of fishing in the north coast bioregion during 1999/2000 included Fisheries WA’s contribution towards the preparation of plans for the proposed Montebello/ Dampier Archipelago Marine Park and the Rowley Shoals Marine Park. The agency also provided input to the plans for the Mermaid Reef Marine Nature Reserve and the proposed Cartier Island Marine Reserve in Commonwealth waters. During the year, Fisheries WA staff worked with the Port Walcott Dive Club to declare a protected area around the Kunmunya and Samson II wreck sites (north of Point Samson). Work has commenced on a draft bycatch action plan for the Pilbara Fish Trawl Interim Managed Fishery.

In 1999 there was an infestation of black-striped mussels in Darwin Harbour and there was concern that they may have translocated to the Kimberley region. Fisheries WA has been working with the WA Museum to monitor the ports of Broome, Derby and Wyndham in an attempt to identify possible infestations of this pest at an early stage.

Fish Habitat Protection Overview The north coast bioregion has extensive closures to fish trawling in all coastal waters west of longitude 120ºE to protect inshore fish nurseries. Similarly, the coastal area off Eighty Mile Beach and north to King Sound, apart from a suitable prawn trawling habitat area, is closed to trawling to protect important pearl oyster habitats from exploratory trawling (North Coast Habitat Protection Figure 1). The region also has RPAs at sensitive coastal locations, marine parks at the Rowley Shoals and proposed marine parks in the Dampier Archipelago and Montebello Islands areas (North Coast Habitat Protection Figure 2).

The agency also participated in the preparation of a major environmental study of the North-West Shelf which is being coordinated by the Department of Environmental Protection.

114o 50' E

North Coast

Kununurra

Broome

Port Hedland

Legend Permanent fish trawl closure area

Onslow Ashburton River

NORTH COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 1 Map showing areas permanently closed to trawling for finfish in the north coast bioregion.

156

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Bioregion - South Coast

North Coast

114o 50' E

Kununurra

Rowley Shoals (marine parks)

Gantheaume Point RPA Broome

Kunmunya and Samson II RPA

Port Hedland

Onslow Ashburton River

NORTH COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 2 Map showing current and proposed areas of protected fish habitat in the north coast bioregion.

Fish Habitat Protection Overview

South Coast Bioregion Environmental Management Overview In 1999, Fisheries WA staff engaged a consultant to liaise with stakeholders and prepare a draft aquaculture plan for the Recherche Archipelago. After an extensive consultation process a final plan was released. The plan outlines some opportunities for aquaculture development and identifies a range of constraints which will have to be addressed before any aquaculture development can occur.

Along the south coast, fishing activities which can impact on marine habitats are limited to a small amount of scallop trawling off Esperance. There is a coastal trawling closure of State waters along the western Great Australian Bight sector, enacted under Commonwealth fisheries legislation, to ensure deep-sea trawlers do not venture into sensitive coastal areas (South Coast Habitat Protection Figure 1). In addition, RPAs are in place to protect specific marine habitats of interest to the community (South Coast Habitat Protection Figure 1).

Eucla

Legend Perth

125o 00' E

Permanent trawl closure area

Esperance Augusta Black Point 115o 30' E

Albany

Esperance Jetty RPA

Sanko Harvest RPA

South Coast

SOUTH COAST HABITAT PROTECTION FIGURE 1 Map showing areas permanently closed to trawl fishing and areas of protected fish habitat in the south coast bioregion.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

157

Bioregion - Northern Inland / Southern Inland

Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Northern Inland Bioregion

Southern Inland Bioregion

Environmental Management Overview

Environmental Management Overview

During 1999/2000, Fisheries WA has contributed to a study of the Ord-Bonaparte region being undertaken by CSIRO. The study will identify the natural resources of the region and the need for conservation, as well as some regional development opportunities.

There are 13 species of freshwater native fish in the southwest of Western Australia, a number of which are under threat as a result of environmental change in rivers and estuaries. Fisheries WA is working with tertiary institutions including Murdoch University, Curtin University and Collie TAFE to develop a management plan to conserve these species. The agency is also working through the South West Freshwater Research and Aquaculture Centre (SWFRAC) at Pemberton and with Collie TAFE to develop breeding populations of these species of fish for use in restocking programs in appropriate locations.

The Western Australian Government is planning to expand the Ord River irrigation area. The work includes a study to determine the environmental water requirements for the river. Staff from the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program have provided the Fisheries WA input into this report. During the year, the agency has assisted in the development of proposals for a major prawn farm in the Kimberley. In addition, it has created an opportunity for a major barramundi farming operation in Lake Argyle. Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program staff have provided advice about the need to manage environmental issues associated with these proposals.

Similarly, the Margaret River marron stock is depleted because of environmental change. The maintenance of this important genotype is considered important for conservation, scientific study and restocking purposes. For this reason Fisheries WA retains a population of Margaret River marron at the SWFRAC. Fish and Fish Habitat Protection staff are preparing a discussion paper on the social benefits and possible environmental effects of the translocation of trout in the south-west of Western Australia. This discussion paper will be released for public discussion and then a management plan will be prepared. One new Fishcare WA project was funded in the southern inland bioregion. This was: •

Monitoring the effects of salinisation on water life in the Collie River (Bunbury Community School).

Two new Fisheries Action Program projects were funded in the region. These were:

158



Protection and reintroduction of native freshwater fishes (Murdoch University).



Human impacts on marron populations in the southwest (Friends of Collie Aquarium).

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Ayvazian, S.G., Lenanton, R., Wise, B., Steckis, R., and Nowara, G. 1997. Western Australian salmon and Australian herring creel survey. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 93/79.

Lenanton, R.C.J. and Potter, I.C. 1987. Contribution of estuaries to commercial fisheries in temperate Western Australia and the concept of estuarine dependence. Estuaries, 10/1: 28-35.

Baharthah, T. and Sumner, N.R. 1999. Fisheries WA community survey 1999. Fisheries WA.

Malseed, B.E., Sumner, N.R. and Williamson, P.C. 2000. A 12-month survey of recreational fishing in the Leschenault Estuary of Western Australia during 1998. Fisheries Research Report no. 120, Fisheries WA.

Fisheries WA. 1998. Future management of the aquatic tour industry in Western Australia. Final report of the Tour Operators Working Group. Fisheries Management Paper no. 116. Fisheries WA. 1999a. A quality future for recreational fishing in the Gascoyne: Proposals for community discussion: A five-year management strategy prepared by the Gascoyne Recreational Fishing Working Group. Fisheries Management Paper no. 124. Fisheries WA. 1999b. The South Coast Estuarine Fishery: A discussion paper. Fisheries Management Paper no. 126. Fisheries WA. 1999c. Management directions for Western Australia’s estuarine and embayment fisheries: A strategic approach to management. Fisheries Management Paper no. 131. Fisheries WA. 2000. A quality future for recreational fishing on the West Coast: A five-year management strategy for recreational fishing prepared by the West Coast Recreational Fishing Working Group. Fisheries Management Paper no. 139. Hyndes, G.A., Platell, M.E., Potter, I.C. and Lenanton, R.C.J. 1998. Age composition, growth, reproductive biology, and recruitment of King George whiting, Sillaginodes punctata, in coastal waters of south-western Australia. Fishery Bulletin, 96: 258-70. Kewagama Research. 1996. Ord River fishing survey (unpublished). Report to the East Kimberley Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee. Laurenson, L.J.B., Neira, F.J. and Potter, I.C. 1993b. Reproductive biology and larval morphology of the marine plotosid Cnidoglanis macrocephalus (Teleostei) in a seasonally closed Australian estuary. Hydrobiologia, 268: 179-92. Laurenson, L.J.B., Unsworth, P., Penn, J.W. and Lenanton, R.C.J. 1993a. The impact of trawling for saucer scallops and western king prawns on the benthic communities in coastal waters off south-western Australia. Fisheries Research Report no. 100, Fisheries WA. Lenanton, R.C.J. 1970. The biology of the commercially fished whiting (Sillago spp.) in Shark Bay, Western Australia. MSc thesis, University of Western Australia. Lenanton, R.C.J. and Hall, N.G. 1976. The Western Australian amateur fishery for Australian herring (Arripis georgianus): Results of the 1973 creel census. Report no. 25, Department of Fisheries & Wildlife. Lenanton, R.C.J. and Hodgkin, E.P. 1985. ‘Life history strategies of fish in some temperate Australian estuaries’, in Fish Community Ecology in Estuaries and Coastal Lagoons: Towards an Ecosystem Integration, ed. A. Yanez-Arancibia, UNAM Press, Mexico.

References

References

Melville-Smith, R. and Anderton, S.M. 2000. Western rock lobster mail surveys of licensed recreational fishers 1986/87 to 1998/99. Fisheries Research Report no. 122, Fisheries WA. Moran, M.J., Jenke, J., Cassells, G. and Nowara, G. 1996. Research for allocation of north-west marine finfish resources among diverse user groups. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 91/28. Nel, S. 1983. The ecology of two species of catfish (Cnidoglanis macrocephalus and Paraplotosus albilabris) in the Swan estuary. Honours thesis, Murdoch University. Potter, I.C. and Hyndes, G.A. 1994. Composition of the fish fauna of a permanently open estuary on the southern coast of Australia, and comparisons with a nearby seasonally closed estuary. Marine Biology, 121: 199-209. Potter, I.C., Hyndes, G.A. and Baronie, F.M. 1993. The fish fauna of a seasonally closed Australian estuary: Is the prevalence of estuarine-spawning species high? Marine Biology, 116: 19-30. Potter, I.C., Platell, M.E. and Lenanton, R.C.J. 1997. Biological data for the management of competing commercial and recreational fisheries for King George whiting and black bream. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 93/82. Quinn, T.J. and Deriso, R.B. 1999. Quantitative Fish Dynamics, Oxford University Press. Sarre, G. 1999. Age composition, growth rates, reproductive biology and diets of the black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri in four estuaries and a coastal saline lake in south-western Australia. PhD thesis, Murdoch University. Sumner, N and Steckis, R. 1999. Statistical analysis of Gascoyne region recreational fishing study July 1996. Fisheries Research Report no. 115, Fisheries WA. Sumner, N.R. and Williamson, P.C. 1999. A 12-month survey of coastal recreational boat fishing between Augusta and Kalbarri on the west coast of WA during 1996/97. Fisheries Research Report no. 117, Fisheries WA. Sumner, N.R., Malseed, B.E. and Williamson, P.C. 2000. Estimating the recreational catch of blue swimmer crabs in the south-west of Western Australia. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 98/199. Sumner, N.R., Williamson, P.C. and Malseed, B.E. In prep. A 12-month survey of coastal recreational fishing in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia during 1998/99. Fisheries Research Report, Fisheries WA. Western Australia, Legislative Council. 2000. Report of the Standing Committee on Ecologically Sustainable Development in relation to the management and sustainability of the western rock lobster. Report 6.

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159

160

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Appendices Appendix 1: Stock Exploitation Status and Catch Ranges for Major Commercial Fisheries ............162

Appendix 2: Fisheries Research Division Staff Publications..164

Appendix 3: Table of Catches from Fishers’ Statutory Monthly Production Returns of 1998/99 ..............169

Appendix 4: Profile of Fisheries and Aquaculture ..................171

Appendix 1

Appendices Appendix 1 STOCK EXPLOITATION STATUS AND CATCH RANGES FOR MAJOR COMMERCIAL FISHERIES (APPENDIX 9 FROM ANNUAL REPORT 1999/2000) Fishery

Stock assessment complete

Exploitation status

Breeding Previous stock catch assessment projections (tonnes)

*Catch (tonnes) current season

Year

Acceptable catch or effort range next season (tonnes/days)

Year

Comments current season catch

WEST COAST BIOREGION Western rock lobster

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

13,00014,000

13,009

98/99

13,50014,500

99/00

The catch range in 1999/2000 is predicted from puerulus settlement three and four years previously.

Roe’s abalone

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

126 (Q) (750-950 days Z3)

108 (757 days)

99

116 (740-990 days)

2000

New management plan now treats Roe’s abalone as a single fishery.

South West trawl

NA

NA

NA

Not available

Prawns 5 Scallops 25

99

Not available

2000

Prawn catch is mainly king prawns. Scallop catch now given in whole weight.

Abrolhos Islands & Mid West trawl

NA

Fully exploited

Adequate

400-600

590

99

250-400

2000

Recruitment is dependent on environmental conditions each year. Catch given in whole weight.

Cockburn Sound

NA

NA

Not appropriate

38-92

91

99

40-95

2000

Finfish only (excludes bait fish).

West coast purse seine

Yes

Fully exploited

Depleted

NA

1,103

99

260

2000

Reduced catch set for 2000 due to mortality effect.

Estuarine fisheries (west coast)

Yes#

Fully or over exploited

Not appropriate

Not available

372

99

Not available

2000

Excludes Hardy Inlet. Includes fish and crustaceans.

GASCOYNE COAST BIOREGION Shark Bay prawn

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

1,611-2,183

2,261

99

1,611-2,183

2000

Increased catches of king prawns due to variations in environmental conditions and increasing effective fishing effort.

Exmouth prawn

Yes

Fully exploited

King prawn adequate; Tiger prawn adequate

771-1,276

1,467

99

771-1,276

2000

Tiger prawn recruitment levels increased due to cyclone benefit.

Shark Bay scallop

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

1,050-2,200

1,700

99

1,500-2,750

2000

Catches remain at low end of range due to negative environmental impacts. Catch given in whole weight.

Shark Bay snapper

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

550 (Q)

450

99

450-550 (Q)

2000

Reduced catch due to low effort.

Shark Bay beach seine & mesh net

Yes#

Fully exploited#

Adequate#

95-140 (whiting)

115 (whiting)

99

95-140 (whiting)

2000

Whiting catch only.

NORTH COAST BIOREGION

162

Onslow prawn

NA

NA

NA

61-132

93

99

61-132

2000

Low summer rainfall gave low banana prawn catches.

Nickol Bay prawn

NA

NA

NA

Banana prawn 150-250

259

99

Banana prawn 300-500

2000

High summer rainfall increased banana prawn catches

Broome prawn

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

King prawn 36-164

King prawn 73

99

King prawn 36-164

2000

Fishing season now extended and matched to lunar-phase-driven recruitment patterns in order to achieve the best catch rates.

Kimberley prawn

NA

NA

NA

278-576

303

99

301-645

2000

Banana prawn catch showed limited response to higher rainfall.

Pearl oyster

Yes

Fully exploited

Increasing

99

617,700 oysters1 (Q) (15,331-22,599 dive hours)

2000

Quota in zones 2/3 increased due to increased recruitment.

572,000 548,256 oysters oysters1 (Q) (18,000-25,000 (15,088 dive hours) dive hours)

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Stock assessment complete

Exploitation status

Breeding Previous stock catch assessment projections (tonnes)

*Catch (tonnes) current season

Year

Acceptable catch or effort range next season (tonnes/days)

Year

Comments current season catch

Assessment only includes major species. Reduced effort causing lower catch.

Appendix 1

Fishery

NORTH COAST BIOREGION (CONT.) Pilbara trawl

Yes#

Fully exploited

Adequate

2,300-2,600

2,230

99

2,100-2,400

2000

Pilbara demersal trap & line

NA

Fully exploited

Limited data

Not available

421

99

300-400

2000

Northern demersal

NA

Fully exploited

Limited data

600-1,000

577

99

600-1,000

2000

Low catch due to low effort.

Kimberley gillnet & barramundi

Yes#

Fully exploited#

Adequate#

98/99

25-40 (barramundi)

99/00

Barramundi catch only.

North coast shark

NA

NA

NA

NA

276

98/99

NA

99/00

Developing fishery. Additional information will become available in future years.

Spanish mackerel

NA

NA

NA

NA

337

99

260-390

2000

Catch of Spanish mackerel only. Range is preliminary estimate only, fishery yet to stabilise.

25-40 38 (barramundi) (barramundi)

SOUTH COAST BIOREGION Esperance rock lobster

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

50-80

76

98/99

50-80

99/00

Catch figures and projections include the fishery’s three management zones: Esperance, GAB and Albany.

Abalone (greenlip/ brownlip)

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

219 (Q) (1,190-1,520 days)

208.3 (1,121 days)

99

235.63 (Q) (1,110-1,520 days)

2000

Two zones previously managed separately now amalgamated into one fishery in 1999.

WA salmon

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

1,800-4,900

1,725

99

1,300-3,600

2000

Environmental factors (Leeuwin Current) influence recruitment and catch levels in subsequent years.

Australian herring trap

Yes

Fully exploited

Adequate

430-1,220

642

99

450-1,200

2000

South coast catch only.

Southern & west coast demersal gillnet & longline

Yes#

Fully exploited

Adequate#

875-1,075#

953

98/99

875-1,075#

99/00

Key species only reported. Breeding stocks of major species are adequate; management measures designed to improve minor species are in place.

Estuarine fisheries (south coast)

Yes#

Fully exploited

Not appropriate

220-480

280

99

200-500

2000

Includes fish, molluscs and crustaceans.

Albany/King George Sound purse seine

Yes

NA

Severely depleted

NA

139 (247 boat days)

99

0

2000

Catch reduced as a result of mortality. Zero quota set for 2000.

Bremer Bay purse seine

Yes

NA

Severely depleted

NA

185 (267 boat days)

99

0

2000

Catch reduced as a result of mortality. Zero quota set for 2000.

Esperance purse seine

Yes

Fully exploited

Depleted

NA

410 (335 boat days)

99

1,060

2000

Reduced quota set allowing for disease but offset for good recruitment.

Fully exploited

Decreasing

102-142

194

98/99

100-140

99/00

Catch above historic levels due to activation of latent effort.

NORTHERN INLAND BIOREGION Lake Argyle catfish

* # NA Q 1

Yes

Catch figures supplied for latest year available. For key species only. No assessment. Quota management. Pearl catch quota is in individual oysters.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

163

Appendix 2

Appendices Appendix 2 FISHERIES RESEARCH DIVISION STAFF PUBLICATIONS

Books Lawrence, C.S. and Morrissy, N.M. 2000. Yabby Farming: Frequently Asked Questions. Fisheries WA, 56 pp. Reports Ayvazian, S.G., Jones, G.J., Fairclough, D., Potter, I.C., Wise, B.S. and Dimmlich, W.F. 2000. Stock assessment of Australian herring. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 96/105, 225 pp. Baharthah, T. and Sumner, N.R. 1999. Fisheries WA community survey 1999. Fisheries WA, 91 pp. Burke, C.M., Harris, J.O., Hindrum, S.M., Edwards, S.J. and Maguire, G.B. 2000. Environmental requirements of abalone. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 97/323, 153 pp. Chubb, C.F. and Barker, E.H. 2000. The western rock lobster fishery 1993/94 to 1994/95. Fisheries Research Report no. 116, Fisheries WA, 46 pp. Crowe, F., Lehre, W. and Lenanton, R. 1999. A study into Western Australia’s open access and wetline fisheries. Fisheries Research Report no. 118, Fisheries WA, 142 pp. Dunstan, G.A., Volkman, J.K. and Maguire, G.M. 2000. Optimisation of essential lipids in artificial feeds for Australian abalone. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 94/85, 68 pp. Gaughan, D.J. and Mitchell, R.W.D. 2000. The biology and stock assessment of the tropical sardine, Sardinella lemuru, off the mid-west coast of Western Australia. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 95/037. Fisheries Research Report no. 119, Fisheries WA, 136 pp. Harris, D.C., Joll, L.M. and Watson, R.A. 1999. The Western Australian scallop industry. Fisheries Research Report no. 114, Fisheries WA, 30 pp. Kangas, M.I. 2000. Synopsis of the biology and exploitation of the blue swimmer crab, Portunus pelagicus Linnaeus, in Western Australia. Fisheries Research Report no. 121, Fisheries WA, 22 pp.

164

Mackie, M.C. and Black, R. 1999. Research on two serranid species (Serranidae: Epinephelinae) in Western Australian waters. (I) The biology, ecology, and mechanisms of sex-change in the chinaman cod (Epinephelus rivulatus) at Ningaloo Reef. (II) The biology of the bar-cheeked coral trout (Plectropomus maculatus) within the Pilbara trawl fishery. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 95/025, 135 pp. Maguire, G.B., Riley, S.P., Bellchambers, L.M., Kent, G.N., Paturusi, A., Soh, S., Handlinger, J. and Taylor, I.R. 2000. Enhancing Tasmanian clam resources. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 93/232, 385 pp + appendices. Malseed, B.E., Sumner, N.R. and Williamson, P.C. 2000. A 12-month survey of recreational fishing in the Leschenault Estuary of Western Australia during 1998. Fisheries Research Report no. 120, Fisheries WA, 36 pp. Melville-Smith, R. and Anderton, S.M. 2000. Western rock lobster mail surveys of licensed recreational fishers 1986/87 to 1998/99. Fisheries Research Report no. 122, Fisheries WA, 39 pp. Pearce, A., Rossbach, M., Tait, M. and Brown, R. 1999. Sea temperature variability off Western Australia 1990 to 1994. Fisheries Research Report no. 111, Fisheries WA, 45 pp. Stephenson, P.C. and Mant, J.C. 1999. Adaptive management of the Pilbara Trawl Fishery. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 96/133, 73 pp. Sumner, N.R. and Steckis, R.A. 1999. Statistical analysis of Gascoyne region recreational fishing study July 1996. Fisheries Research Report no. 115, Fisheries WA, 30 pp. Sumner, N.R. and Williamson, P.C. 1999. A 12-month survey of coastal recreational boat fishing between Augusta and Kalbarri on the west coast of WA during 1996/97. Fisheries Research Report no. 117, Fisheries WA, 52 pp. Sumner, N.R., Malseed, B.E. and Williamson, P.C. 2000. Estimating the recreational catch of blue swimmer crabs in the south west of Western Australia. Final report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation on project 98/199, 61 pp.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Scientific papers Calver, M.C., Bradley, J.S. and Wright, I.W. 1999. Environmental management: The precautionary principle and null hypothesis: A response. Pacific Conservation Biology, 5(2): 80-82. Cheah, M.S.H. and Lee, C.L. 2000. Induced ovulation of the Australian eel-tailed catfish Neosilurus ater (Perugia) with Ovaprim. Asian Fisheries Science, 13: 87-96. Delabie, J.H.C., Majer, J.D. and Wright, I.W. 2000. ‘Sampling ground dwelling ant populations: How many samples are needed’ in Ants: Standard Methods for Measuring and Monitoring Biodiversity, eds D. Agosti, J.D. Majer, L.E. Alonso and T.R. Schultz, Smithsonian Institution Press, Herndon VA. English, L.J., Maguire, G.B. and Ward, R.D. 2000. Genetic variation of wild and hatchery populations of Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas (Thunberg), in Australia. Aquaculture, 187(3-4): 283-98.

Glencross, B.D. and Smith, D.M. 1999. The linoleic and linolenic acids requirements of the prawn, Penaeus monodon. Aquaculture Nutrition, 5(1): 53-64. Glencross, B.D., Smith, D.M., Tonks, M.L., Tabrett, S.M. and Williams, K.C. 1999. A reference diet for nutritional studies of the prawn, Penaeus monodon. Aquaculture Nutrition 5(1): 33-40. Hancock, B. 2000. Genetic subdivision of Roe’s abalone, Haliotis roei Grey (Mollusca: Gastropoda), in south-western Australia. Marine and Freshwater Research, 51: 679-87. Jones, J.B. and Zeidler, W. 1999. The occurrence of Pachypygus gibber (Thorell, 1859) (Copepoda: Notodelphyidae) in Australian waters. Transactions of the Royal Society of South Australia, 123: 81-82. Kolkovski, S. and Dabrowski, K. 1999. The use of krill hydrolysate as feed attractant in fish diets. Journal of World Aquaculture, 31(1): 81-88. Kolkovski, S. and Tandler, A. 2000. The use of squid hydrolysate as protein source in microdiets for gilthead sea bream larvae. Aquaculture Nutrition, 6(1): 11-17. Laursen, T., Russ, G.R., Newman, S.J. and Higgs, J.B. 1999. Age, growth and mortality of Gymnocranius audleyi (Pisces: Lethrinidae). Asian Fisheries Science, 12(2): 187-200.

Fletcher, W.J. and Sumner, N.R. 1999. Spatial distribution of pilchard eggs and larvae: An application of geostatistics and re-sampling to survey data. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 56: 907-14.

Lawrence, C.S. and Morrissy, N.M. 2000. Genetic improvement of marron (Cherax tenuimanus Smith) and yabbies (Cherax spp.) in Western Australia. Aquaculture Research, 31(1): 69-83.

Friedman, K.J. and Bell, J. 1999. Variation in abundance of blacklip pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera Linne.) spat from inshore and offshore reefs in Solomon Islands. Aquaculture, 178: 273-91.

Lawrence, C.S., Cheng, Y.W., Morrissy, N.M. and Williams, I.H. 2000. A comparison of mixed sex vs. monosex growout and different diets on the growth rate of freshwater crayfish (Cherax albidus). Aquaculture, 185: 281-89.

Friedman, K.J. and Bell, J. 2000. Shorter immersion times increase yields of the blacklip pearl oyster, Pinctada margaritifera (Linne.), from spat collectors in Solomon Islands. Aquaculture, 187(3/4): 299-314. Friedman, K.J. and Southgate, P.C. 1999. Growout of blacklip pearl oysters, Pinctada margaritifera, collected as wild spat in Solomon Islands. Journal of Shellfish Research, 18(1): 159-67. Friedman, K.J. and Southgate, P.C. 1999. Growout of blacklip pearl oysters, Pinctada margaritifera, on chaplets in suspended culture in Solomon Islands. Journal of Shellfish Research, 18(2): 451-58. Glencross, B.D., van Barneveld, R.J., Carter, C.G. and Clarke, S.M. 1999. On the path to a manufactured feed for farmed southern bluefin tuna. World Aquaculture Magazine, 30(3): 42-46.

Appendix 2

In press Dibden, C.J., Jenkins, G., Sarre, G.A., Lenanton, R.C.J., and Ayvazian, S.G. 2000. The evaluation of a recreational fishing stock enhancement trial of black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) in the Swan River, Western Australia. Fisheries Research Report no. 124, Fisheries WA.

Lawrence, C.S., Williams, I.H., Vercoe, P.E. and Morrissy, N.M. 1999. Growth rates of yabby strains. Proceedings of the Association for the Advancement of Animal Breeding Genetics, 13: 480-83. Mackie, M.C. 2000. Reproductive biology of the halfmoon grouper, Epinephelus rivulatus, at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. Environmental Biology of Fishes, 57: 363-76. Moran, M.J. and Stephenson, P.C. 2000. Effects of otter trawling on macrobenthos and management of demersal scalefish fisheries on the continental shelf of north-western Australia. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 57: 510-16. Omunsden, S.L., Sheaves, M.J. and Molony, B.W. 2000. Temporal population dynamics of the swarming shrimp, Acetes sibogae australis, in a tropical near-shore system. Marine and Freshwater Research, 51: 249-54.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

165

Appendices Appendix 2

Phillips, B. and Melville-Smith, R. 1999. ‘Western rock lobsters’, in Under Southern Seas: The Ecology of Australia’s Rocky Reefs, ed. N. Andrew, UNSW Press, Sydney, pp. 118-25. Sheaves, M.J., Molony, B.W. and Tobin, A.J. 1999. Spawning migrations and local movements of a tropical sparid fish. Marine Biology, 133: 123-28. Ward, R.D., English, L., McGoldrick, D.J., Maguire, G.B., Nell, J.A. and Thompson, P. 2000. Genetic improvement of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, in Australia. Aquaculture Research, 31(1): 35-44. Watson, R.A. and Sumner, N.R. 1999. Uncertainty and risk associated with optimised fishing patterns in a tropical penaeid fishery. Environment International, 25(6/7): 735-44. Young, G.C., Wise, B.S. and Ayvazian, S.G. 1999. A tagging study on tailor (Pomatomus saltatrix) in Western Australian waters: their movement, exploitation, growth and mortality. Marine and Freshwater Research, 50: 633-42. In press Bradford-Grieve, J.M., Wells, J.B.J., Jones, J.B., Chapman, M.A., Green, J., Ho, J-S., Rocha, C.E.F., Shiel, R.J. and Lewis, M. ‘Subclass Copepoda’, in The New Zealand Inventory of Biodiversity: A Species 2000 Symposium Review, ed. D.P. Gordon, Canterbury University Press, Christchurch. Caputi, N., Chubb, C.F., Hall, N.G. and Brown, R.S. ‘Measurement of catch and fishing effort in the western rock lobster fishery’, in Spiny Lobsters: Fisheries and Culture, eds. B.F. Phillips and J. Kittaka, Fishing News Books, Oxford. Coote, T.A., Hone, P.W., van Barneveld, R. and Maguire, G.B. Optimal protein level in a manufactured diet for juvenile greenlip abalone (Haliotis laevigata). Aquaculture Nutrition. Evans, L.H., Jones, J.B. and Brock, J.A. ‘Diseases of spiny lobsters’, in Spiny Lobsters: Fisheries and Culture, eds. B.F. Phillips and J. Kittaka, Fishing News Books, Oxford. Glencross, B.D. 2000. Essential fatty acid and lipid requirements in farmed fish: Sourcing the good oils. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society of Australia, 24. Glencross, B.D. and Smith, D.M. 2000. Optimising the essential fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid in the diet of the prawn, Penaeus monodon. Aquaculture Nutrition, 6(4). Jones, J.B. and Lawrence, C.S. Diseases of yabbies (Cherax albidus) in Western Australia. Aquaculture. Kolkovski, S. Digestive enzymes in fish larvae: Application and implication: A review. Aquaculture (special issue).

166

Kolkovski, S., Jenkins, I.J. and Lee, C.L. Cage aquaculture in Western Australia: Current status and future plans. Asian Aquaculture Journal. Melville-Smith, R., Anderton, S. and Caputi, N. Predicting the recreational western rock lobster (Panulirus cygnus) catch in Western Australia. Marine and Freshwater Research. Melville-Smith, R., Phillips, B. and Penn, J. ‘Recreational spiny lobster fisheries – research and management’, in Spiny Lobsters: Fisheries and Culture, eds. B.F. Phillips and J. Kittaka, Fishing News Books, Oxford. Phillips, B., Chubb, C. and Melville-Smith, R. ‘The status of Australia’s rock lobster fisheries’, in Spiny Lobsters: Fisheries and Culture, eds. B.F. Phillips and J. Kittaka, Fishing News Books, Oxford. Pironet, F.N. and Jones, J.B. Treatments for ectoparasites and diseases in captive Western Australian dhufish. Aquaculture International. Risbey, D.A., Calver, M.C., Short, J., Bradley, J.S. and Wright, I.W. 2000. The impact of cats and foxes on the small vertebrate fauna of Heirisson Prong, Western Australia. II. A field experiment. Wildlife Research, 27. Refereed conference papers Lim, T., Gopalan, N., Sumner, N.R. and Yatawara, N. 1999. Bootstrap estimation of the fixation index in tailor fish management of Western Australian coastal waters. Proceedings of the International Congress on Modelling and Simulation (MODSIM 99), 6-9 December 1999, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand, eds. L. Oxley, F. Scrimgeour and A. Jakeman, 3: 835-40. Murray, A.G., O’Callaghan, M. and Jones, B. 1999. Simple models of massive epidemics of Herpesvirus in Australian (and New Zealand) pilchards. Proceedings of the International Congress on Modelling and Simulation (MODSIM 99), 6-9 December 1999, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand, eds L. Oxley, F. Scrimgeour and A. Jakeman, 3: 655-60. In press Jones, J.B. Baitfish and quantitative risk assessment issues. Proceedings of the OIE International Conference on Risk Analysis in Aquatic Animal Health, 8-10 February 2000, Paris, France, ed. C.J. Rodgers, Office International des Epizooties (O.I.E.). Non-refereed conference/workshop papers Anderton, S.M. and Melville-Smith, R. 2000. Demographic and catch patterns of recreational western rock lobster licence holders in the 1998/99 season. Poster presentation at the West Australian Marine Science Conference 2000, 27-28 April 2000, Perth.

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Saxby, S.A. and Maguire, G.B. 1999. Using Western Australian ingredients in aquafeeds for abalone and other species. Proceedings of the WA Conference on Tropical Aquaculture in the Kimberley, 27-29 May 1999, Broome, Western Australia, eds C.L. Lee and D.C. Harvey, Tropical Aquaculture Association, pp. 99-109.

Jones, J.B. 2000. Crustacean health management and issues. Proceedings of the WA Conference on Tropical Aquaculture in the Kimberley, 27-29 May 1999, Broome, Western Australia, eds C.L. Lee and D.C. Harvey, Tropical Aquaculture Association, pp 122-28.

In press Caputi, N., Phillips, B.F., Chubb, C., Hall, N. and Pearce, A. Recent research and management initiatives in the western rock lobster, Panulirus cygnus, fishery. Proceedings of the Third Binational Workshop on the Spiny Lobsters of America, MexicoCuba ‘97. Ciencias del Mar, UAS, 16.

Lawrence, C.S. (ed.) 1999. Freshwater Crayfish Research in Australia: Industry Priorities and Research Directions: Meeting Proceedings, Sydney Convention Centre, 26 April 1999, Sydney, Australia, Fisheries WA, 36 pp. Lee, C.L. and Harvey, D.C. (eds). 2000. Proceedings of the WA Conference on Tropical Aquaculture in the Kimberley, 27-29 May 1999, Broome, Western Australia, Tropical Aquaculture Association, 174 pp. Maguire, G.B. 1999. Non maxima research - the potential benefits of a research programme. Future Directions for the Non Maxima Pearl Industry: 1998 Industry Workshop, 31 October, Fremantle, eds D. Machin and S. Bennison, Amwing Pearl Producers Association, pp. 43-47. Maguire, G.B and Friedman, K. 1999 Non maxima pearl production and markets. Future Directions for the Non Maxima Pearl Industry: 1998 Industry Workshop, 31 October, Fremantle, eds D. Machin and S. Bennison, Amwing Pearl Producers Association, pp. 12-17. Molony, B.W. and Sheaves, M.J. 2000. Application and evaluation of a small-group activity and open forum discussion in a large class situation in biological sciences. Paper presented at the Conference of the Marine Education Society of Australasia (MESA), 18-24 April 2000, Perth. Nardi, K., Moran, M. and Cheng, H. 2000. Comparison of reef fish abundance in closed and open fishing areas at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Poster presentation at the West Australian Marine Science Conference 2000, 27-28 April 2000, Perth. Nardi, K., Moran, M. and Newman, S. 2000. Life history of the baldchin groper (Pisces: Labridae) at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Poster presentation at the West Australian Marine Science Conference 2000, 27-28 April 2000, Perth. Proceedings of the Second National Workshop on Blue Swimmer Crab, Portunus pelagicus, 28-29 October 1999, Perth (abstracts), compiled by R. MelvilleSmith, Fisheries WA, 34 pp.

Appendix 2

Friedman, K.J. 1999. Seeding of black-lip oysters, Pinctada margaritifera (L.) collected as wild spat and wild adults from ‘open’ reef systems of Solomon Islands. Proceedings of the WA Conference on Tropical Aquaculture in the Kimberley, 27-29 May 1999, Broome, Western Australia, eds C.L. Lee and D.C. Harvey, Tropical Aquaculture Association, pp. 63-77.

Kolkovski, S. 2000. ‘Artemia: past, present and future status’, in Hatchery Feeds: Research and Development Plan 2000-2005, ed. M.J. Littmann. Prepared for the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation in conjunction with the Hatchery Feeds Workshop, 9-10 March 2000, Cairns. Southgate, P. and Kolkovski, S. Development of artificial diets for fish larvae. Hatchery Feeds: Proceedings of a Workshop held in Cairns, 9-10 March 2000, ed M.J. Littmann. Report to the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. Southgate, P. and Kolkovski, S. ‘Formulated diets: development of formulated diets for fish larvae’, in Hatchery Feeds: Research and Development Plan 2000-2005, ed. M.J. Littmann. Prepared for the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation in conjunction with the Hatchery Feeds Workshop, 9-10 March 2000, Cairns. McKinlay, J.P. and Millington, P.J. 1999. Fisher obligations in co-managed fisheries: The case for enforcement. Proceedings of the FishRights99 Conference, 15-19 November 1999, Fremantle, Western Australia, ed. R. Shotton, FAO, Rome. (Currently available online at www.fishrights.org) Rogers, P.P. and Penn, J.W. 1999. Shark Bay Prawn Fishery: a synoptic history and the importance of ‘property rights’ in its management. Proceedings of the FishRights99 Conference, 15-19 November 1999, Fremantle, Western Australia, ed. R. Shotton, FAO, Rome. (Currently available online at www.fishrights.org.) Popular articles and client information Beasley, C. and Maguire, G.B. 2000. Farming blue mussels. Aquaculture WA no. 5 (revised), Fisheries WA, 8 pp. Identifying freshwater crayfish in the south west of WA. 2000. Fisheries WA, 4 pp. Introduced freshwater species in Western Australia. 2000. Fisheries WA, 6 pp.

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167

Appendices Appendix 2

Lawrence, C. and Maguire, G. 1999. Farming yabbies. Aquaculture WA no. 4 (revised), 8 pp. Lee, C.L. 2000. ACIAR Trochus reseeding research project in northern Australia, eastern Indonesia and the Pacific extended for another two years. SPC Trochus Information Bulletin, 6 – January 2000, pp. 16-17. Mackie, M. 1999. To be, or not to be: It’s a question of gender for some fish. Western Fisheries, Spring 1999, pp. 28-29. Mackie, M. 2000. Tagged Spanish mackerel need their freedom! Western Fisheries, Winter 2000, p. 26. Mackie, M., Newman, S. and Lewis, P. 2000. The narrow-barred Spanish mackerel: A prized catch. Western Fisheries, Summer 2000, pp 35-37. Maguire, G. 2000. Aquaculture research at Fisheries WA: Technical staff. ACWA News, April 2000, 29: 21-22. Maguire, G. 2000. Aquaculture research at Fisheries WA: The project leaders. ACWA News, January 2000, 28: 23-25. Maguire, G. and Sarre, G. 1999. Farming black bream. Aquaculture WA no. 10, 7 pp. Maguire, G., Cassells, G. and Lawrence, C. 1999. Farming marron. Aquaculture WA no. 2 (revised), 8 pp. Maguire, G., Cassells, G., Brand-Gardner, S. and Lawrence, C. 2000. Survey of commercial marron ponds in Western Australia. Marron Growers Bulletin, 22(2): 9-12. Maguire, G., Sarre, G., Lawrence, C., Lee, C. and Wingfield, M. 1999. Farming black bream. Aquaculture WA no.10 (revised), 8 pp. Maguire, G.B. and Cassells, G. 2000. Marron farming: Is it turning the corner? Western Fisheries, Autumn 2000, pp. 41-43. Melville-Smith, R. and Anderton, S.M. 2000. What the recreational lobster fishing mail surveys reveal. Western Fisheries, Autumn 2000, pp. 44-46. Molony, B., Lawrence, C., and Maguire, G.B. 1999. Farming trout. Aquaculture WA no. 3 (revised), 8 pp. Molony, B.W. 1999. Marroning: How did season ’99 stack up? Western Fisheries, Spring 1999, pp. 24-25. Molony, B.W. and Morrissy, N. 2000. South-west freshwater angling: Unusual fishery has an interesting history. Western Fisheries, Autumn 2000, pp. 38-40. Newman, S.J. 1999. Red emperor, goldband snapper in Kimberley tagging program. Western Fisheries, Winter 1999, pp. 32-33. Newman, S.J. 1999. The humphead maori wrasse: Charismatic, but endangered. Western Fisheries, Spring 1999, pp 48-50.

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Appendix 3

Appendix 3: TABLE OF CATCHES FROM FISHERS’ STATUTORY MONTHLY PRODUCTION RETURNS OF 1998/99 This table contains the landed and estimated live weight of species recorded in the compulsory catch and fishing effort returns provided by fishermen each month. These data include the catch taken as bycatch as well as the targeted catch. These catch data may differ slightly from some of the catch estimates presented for specific fisheries as the latter may include additional data from other sources, such as processors. The figures may also differ slightly from previously reported figures as additional data may have been received by the agency. The table represents the latest year for which a complete set of data is available. Catch category

Landed Weight kg)

Live Weight (kg)

Fish Anchovy Barracuda (northern pike) Barramundi (giant perch) Bigeye (not tuna) Boarfish Bonefish (Pacific bonefish) Bonito Bream, black Bream, buffalo Bream, mixed Bream, monocle Bream, Mozambique Bream, Robinson’s Bream, sea Bream, silver (tarwhine) Bream, western yellowfin Catfish, sea (golden cobbler) Chinaman fish (not cod) Cobbler Cobbler, silver Cod Cod, bar (grey-banded, 8-bar) Cod, Chinaman Cod, Maori Cod, Rankin Cod, spotted Dart Emperor, blue-lined (grass, black) Emperor, spot-cheek Emperor, sweetlip Flagfish (Spanish flag) Flathead, other Flathead, rock Flounder Footballer (footballer sweep, banded sweep) Foxfish (hogfish, pigfish) Garfish, river Garfish, sea Gemfish Groper Groper, baldchin Groper, blue Gurnard Hapuku Herring, Australian

Catch category

Landed Weight kg)

Live Weight (kg)

Fish (continued) 20,864 2,519 23,494 40,815 3,955 185 9,078 19,076 64 428 7,943 39 65,781 1,489 39,503 9,231 49,178 10,648 55,102 71,483 89,418 2,042 7,655 10 89,008 51,145 6 2,186 62 63,108 220,337 12,327 24 3,300

20,864 2,519 38,005 40,815 4,878 185 9,133 19,076 64 428 7,943 39 66,185 1,489 39,503 9,231 49,536 12,014 77,324 194,315 94,221 2,044 8,025 10 95,884 51,166 6 2,186 62 66,284 220,434 12,388 24 3,465

922 78 54 75,716 6 975 39,764 27,546 237 10,342 745,431

961 78 54 75,716 6 1,246 41,756 35,866 237 10,622 745,666

Herring, Perth Javelin fish Jewfish, Westralian (dhufish) Jobfish Jobfish (goldband snapper) Jobfish, rosy John Dory Kingfish, black (cobia) Kingfish, yellowtail Knifejaw Leather jacket Ling, pink (rock ling) Long tom Mackerel, blue Mackerel, other Mackerel, scaly Mackerel, Spanish Mangrove jack Maray Morwong Mullet, bluetail Mullet, other Mullet, red Mullet, sea Mullet, yellow-eye Mulloway Parrot fish Perch, Moses Perch, pearl Perch, red (maroon sea perch) Perch, scarlet sea (saddletail) Perch, yellowtail Perches, other Pike, sea Pilchard Queenfish Red emperor Redfish Redfish, Bight Roach Salmon, Western Australian Samson fish (sea kingfish) Scad, yellowtail Shark, blacktip Shark, bronze whaler Shark, creek whaler

44,687 16,008 192,198 180,234 89,438 180,295 236 29,549 388 661 21,933 643 113 143,821 109,612 1046,059 278,803 15,315 15,154 224 22 2,260 62,222 371,138 137,949 33,746 7,240 62,017 48,698 13,325 123,757 640 11,193 4,960 3,632,751 378 269,971 41,089 7,825 350 1,752,766 92,310 119,620 37,499 239,707 622

44,687 16,008 209,030 180,241 89,552 181,417 250 30,687 425 754 35,338 677 113 143,821 128,401 1,046,059 544,952 15,387 15,154 224 22 2,290 62,222 371,476 138,065 35,216 7,245 62,180 49,469 13,393 123,962 640 11,238 4,972 3,632,751 954 273,724 43,707 8,718 350 1,752,766 99,628 119,620 80,225 378,940 989

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

169

Appendix 3

Appendices Catch category

Landed Weight kg)

Live Weight (kg)

170

Landed Weight kg)

Live Weight (kg)

3,424 51,729 8,347 90 177,979 166,166 15,639,210

3,424 51,738 8,370 90 178,145 181,489 16,912,180

1,320 16,256 2,510 577,395 10,436 59,902 365 668,184

1,320 16,256 2,510 577,395 10,436 59,902 365 668,184

377,845 1,011,742 307,425 2,413 2,373,631 412,549 3,326 4,488,931

377,845 1,011,742 307,425 2,413 2,373,631 412,549 3,326 4,488,931

19,261 77,289 703 12,982,790 13,080,043

19,261 77,289 703 12,985,350 13,082,603

11,028 75,632 94,874 6,564 43,162 2,250 74,524 12 490,932 78,609 877,587

27,456 206,903 106,473 6,564 43,162 2,250 138,137 12 2,341,920 78,619 2,951,496

111,524 15 111,539

428,824 15 428,839

34,865,494

38,532,233

Fish (continued)

Fish (continued) Shark, eastern school Shark, grey nurse Shark, gummy Shark, hammerhead Shark, lemon Shark, mako (shortfin) Shark, other Shark, pencil Shark, spurdog Shark, tawny nurse Shark, thickskin (sandbar) Shark, tiger Shark, whiskery Shark, wobbegong Shark, ‘golden’ (copper whaler) Skates and rays, other Snapper, bullnose (variegated emperor) Snapper, frypan Snapper, golden (fingermark sea perch) Snapper, Lenko (deep sea) Snapper, long nose Snapper, north-west (large) Snapper, north-west (small) Snapper, north-west Snapper, pink Snapper, Queen Snapper, red spot emperor Snapper, red (swallowtail) Snapper, ruby Snapper, Tang’s Snoek (barracouta) Sole Sprat, blue Sweep Sweetlip Tailor Threadfin bream (butterfish) Trevalla, deepsea Trevally, golden Trevally, other (skippy) Threadfin salmon Threadfin salmon, giant (king) Trevally, skipjack Trout, coral Trout, spotted (duskytail groper) Tuna, bigeye Tuna, mackerel Tuna, northern bluefin Tuna, other Tuna, skipjack (striped) Tuna, yellowfin Tuskfish, bluebone Whitebait

Catch category

16,069 1,146 205,507 44,260 1,054 26 181,517 2,836 1,554 901 168,364 24,863 125,768 30,975 1,230 20,012

23,713 1,792 315,740 69,818 1,676 41 288,971 4,353 3,407 1,972 267,569 36,309 185,277 48,790 1,956 42,253

421 79,384

421 79,384

186 395 9,825 109,600 468,743 166,300 769,021 49,821 52,634 327,655 585 63 2 1,216 38,308 1,238 82,792 55,892 262,035 8,212 22,652 283,399 14,200 135,613 17,241 22,195 6,977 30 280 241 14,701 1,775 2,965 18,437 68,359

473 395 11,007 110,239 468,743 188,644 788,319 60,102 52,634 327,663 585 63 2 1,216 38,308 1,483 85,866 55,898 262,035 8,245 22,749 286,108 17,211 151,341 17,274 23,094 6,977 32 280 252 15,838 2,214 3,195 18,746 68,359

Whiting, golden-lined Whiting, King George Whiting, other Whiting, trumpeter Whiting, western sand Other fish varieties Total fish Crabs Crab, coral Crab, king Crab, mud Crab, sand (blue manna) Crab, snow (Australian) Crab, spiny Crab, three spot surf Total crabs Prawns Prawn, banana Prawn, brown tiger Prawn, coral Prawn, leader (black tiger) Prawn, western king Prawn, Endeavour Other prawns Total prawns Rock lobsters Bugs Rock lobster, southern Rock lobster, tropical, painted Rock lobster, western Total rock lobsters Molluscs Abalone, brownlip Abalone, greenlip Abalone, Roe’s Cockles Cuttlefish Mussel Octopus Oyster, western rock Scallop, saucer Squid Total molluscs Other classes Beche de mer Sea urchin Total other classes Grand total

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Appendix 4

Appendix 4: PROFILE OF FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE Nature of fishery

Area

Species

Fishing method

Est. no. of fishing units

Est. total value of licences

1998/99 value

Principal markets

Fishing season

Management approach

595

$1700 m

$260 m

Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong China & USA

15 Nov to 30 June

$27 m

$3.8 m

SE Asia

All year

Output quota fishery – TAC & individual quotas Input boat nos and gear

WEST COAST BIOREGION Western rock lobster

North West Cape to Cape Leeuwin

Western rock lobster

Pots

Roe’s Abalone

SA border to Shark Bay

Roe’s abalone

Diving

South-west trawl

Cape Leeuwin to Moore River

Scallops, finfish & prawns

Trawling

14

NA

$0.18 m

WA

All year

Abrolhos Is & mid-west trawl

Abrolhos Is & Pt Gregory

Scallops & prawns

Trawling

17

NA

$2.6 m

Scallops: SE Asia; prawns: WA

March to November

Input boat nos & gear

Cockburn Sound & Warnbro Sound fisheries

Cockburn Sound & Warnbro Sound

Baitfish, finfish, crabs & mussels

Gillnet, longline, diving & crab pots

Crab: 12; Fish net: 6; Mussels: 3; Line and Pot: 31

NA

$1.2 m

WA

Generally all year

Input boat nos & gear

West coast purse seine

Lancelin to Cape Bouvard (near Mandurah)

Pilchards, scaly mackerel, Perth herring & anchovy

Purse seine

14 (8 full & 6 supp)

NA

$0.7 m

Australia

All year

Input boat nos & gear

West Coast beach bait & fish net

Burns Beach to Tims Thickett

Scale fish

Beach seine

13

NA

$0.2 m

Australia

All year

Input boat nos & gear

Aquarium fish

State

Aquarium fish

Diving

13

NA

NA

WA, Australia, Asia & USA

All year

Input boat nos & crew nos

Specimen shell

State

Shells

Diving

34

NA

NA

WA, Australia & Asia

All year

Input boat nos & crew nos

Cockburn & Warnbro Sounds; Albany Harbours

Mytilus edulis

NA

14 licences

NA

$2 m

WA

All year

Aquaculture licensing

Mussel farming

Input pot nos

GASCOYNE COAST BIOREGION Shark Bay prawn

Shark Bay

King, tiger & endeavour prawns

Trawling

27

$89 m

$34.3 m

Japan, Australia, SE Asia & Europe

March to November

Input boat nos & gear

Exmouth prawn

Exmouth Gulf

King, tiger & endeavour prawns

Trawling

15

$50 m

$19.4 m

Japan, Europe & Australia

April to November

Input boat nos & gear

Shark Bay scallop

Shark Bay

Scallops

Trawling

41

$21 m

$7.4 m

SE Asia & USA

April to November

Input boat nos, gear & crew nos

Shark Bay Snapper

Shark Bay

Snapper

Line

24

$2.5 m

$2.06 m

Japan, Australia & Italy

Winter peak season; summer off season

Output individual quota, input boat nos

Shark Bay beach seine & mesh net

Shark Bay south of Cape Levillain

Whiting & mullet

Beach seine & mesh net

9

NA

$0.8 m

WA

All year

Input boat nos & gear

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

171

Appendix 4

Appendices Nature of fishery

Area

Species

Fishing method

Est. no. of fishing units

Est. total value of licences

1998/99 value

Principal markets

Fishing season

Management approach

NORTH COAST BIOREGION Onslow prawn

Ashburton River mouth to Dampier Archipelago

King, tiger, endeavour & banana prawns

Trawling

Area 1-3: 4; Area 2-3: 3; Area 2: 12; Area 3: 12.

Area 1: NA; Area 2: Not transferable; Area 3: Not transferable

$1.4 m

Japan & Europe

April to November

Input boat nos & gear

Nickol Bay prawn

Dampier Archipelago to 120° east longitude

banana & king prawns

Trawling

14

NA

$3.3 m

Japan & Australia

All year (mainly April to November)

Input boat nos & gear

Broome Prawn

Kimberley coast east of 120º east & west of 123º45’ east

King prawns

Trawling

5

NA

$1.3 m

Japan & Australia

Kimberley prawn

Kimberley coast east of 123°45’ east longitude to Cape Londonderry

Banana & king prawns

Trawling

134

NA

$3.5 m

Japan

Winter

Pilbara trawl

North West Cape to 120° east longitude

Snapper, emperor & cod

Trawling

11

$5.5 m

$6.7 m

Australia

All year

Input time and gear

Pilbara trap

North West Cape to 120° east longitude

Snapper, emperor & cod

Trap

6

NA

$1.1 m

WA

All year

Input Time/ Gear units

East of 120° east longitude to NT border

Snapper, emperor & cod

Trap & line

offshore: 11; inshore: 4

NA

$2.98 m

WA

All year

Input time/ gear units

19° south latitude to NT border (ie Kimberley coast)

Barramundi, threadfin salmon & bluenose salmon

Gillnet

8

Generally not transferrable

$0.7 m

WA

All year

Input boat nos & gear

Exmouth Gulf to NT border

Pinctada maxima

Diving then culture

16 licensees; 89 boats

NA

$185 m

Japan, USA & Europe

Winter oyster months

Output shell quota

Shark Bay to Pilbara

Pinctada albina & margaritifera; Pteria penguin

Spat collection hatchery culture

14 licences

NA

NA

Australia

NA

Aquaculture licensing

Input pot nos

Northern demersal scalefish fishery

Kimberley gillnet & barramundi

Pearl oyster

Pearl oyster (non P. maxima) farming

Input boat nos & gear

Input boat nos

SOUTH COAST BIOREGION Esperance rock lobster

Hopetoun to Israelite Bay

Southern rock lobster

Pots

11

$0.7 m

$1.6 m

Australia Hong Kong & China

15 Nov to 30 June

Abalone (greenlip/ brownlip)

SA border to Busselton

Greenlip, & brownlip abalone

Diving

14

$56 m

$9.1 m

SE Asia

All year

South & South West Salmon

Shoal Cape to Cape Beaufort & north of Cape Beaufort

Australian salmon

Beach seine

30

NA

$0.8 m

Australia

February to April

All waters between 26º south & the SA border

Shark & scale fish

Demersal gillnet & demersal longline

38

$4.5 m

$4.3 m

Australia

All year

Southern & westcoast demersal gillnet & longline

172

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Output Quota fishery – TAC & individual quotas

Output total allowable catch

Time/gear/ units

Area

Species

Fishing method

Est. no. of fishing units

Est. total value of licences

1998/99 value

Principal markets

Fishing season

Appendix 4

Nature of fishery

Management approach

SOUTH COAST BIOREGION (continued) South coast purse seine

SA border to Pt D’Entrecasteaux

Pilchards, scaly mackerel, yellowtail, scad, sandy & blue sprat, anchovy & Maray

Purse seine

Albany/ King George Sound: 3-4; Bremer Bay: 4; Esperance: 4

NA

$0.7 m

Australia

All year

Output TAC & individual quota

Augusta/ Windy Harbour rock lobster

Pt D’Entrecasteaux to Augusta

Western & Southern rock lobster

Pots

2 boats 350 pots

NA

NA

Australia, Hong Kong, & China

15 Nov to 30 June

Input boat nos & gear

Freshwater cobbler

Gillnet

6

NA

$0.5 m

WA

All year

Input boat nos & gear

NORTHERN INLAND BIOREGION Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle

SOUTHERN INLAND BIOREGION Yabby farming

Geraldton to Esperance

Yabbies

Traps in farm dams

24 licensees

-

$1.6 m

Australia, Asia & Europe

All year

Aquaculture licensing and farm dam harvesting

Marron farming

Mostly south west & north of Perth

Cherax tenuimanus

NA

124 licences

-

$1.2 m

Australia & export

All year

Aquaculture licensing

Finfish farming

Mostly SW

Rainbow trout

NA

7 licences

-

$0.3 m

WA

All year

Aquaculture licensing

Perth

Various

NA

8 licences

NA

$0.2 m

WA

All year

Aquaculture licensing

Goldfish, Koi carp & ornamental fish farming

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

173

174

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

Feedback

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FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000

175

Executive Director’s Overview 176

FISHERIES WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE OF THE FISHERIES REPORT 1999/2000