The Western Rock Lobster fishery is divided into three zones: (A) Abrolhos Islands; (B) north of latitude 30°S; and (C) south of latitude 30°S (see map below). Historically, this has prevented concentrated fishing in some areas, and has also allowed for management that addresses zone-specific issues.
Commercial fishing management measures include:
- areas closed to fishing;
- lobster size limits;
- protection for any females in breeding condition;
- controls on the type of gear used; and
- a limit on the catch for the whole fishery, known as Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC).