Tasmania Police and the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) have reminded recreational fishers that the East Coast non-commercial abalone and rock lobster fisheries are closed and it is illegal to fish.

The closure follows public health warnings that levels of paralytic shellfish toxin (PST) found in samples of shellfish and crustaceans represent a risk to human health.

DPIPWE Acting Deputy Secretary Wes Ford said fishers would be aware that the area affected by the closure includes some of the most popular fishing grounds for amateur divers and rock lobster fishers.

“The area extends from Eddystone Point in the north to the southern end of Marion Bay,” Mr Ford said.

“Further testing is being done and it is anticipated that the closure will be enforced for at least three weeks.

“Reopening will depend entirely on test results and I ask fishers to heed the health warnings and closure decision.

“The commercial abalone and southern rock lobster fisheries on the east coast are also affected and will remain closed pending further testing.”

Mr Ford welcomed assistance from Tasmania Police to inform Tasmanian amateur fishers about the fishery closure.

Acting Inspector John Pratt said officers from the Marine Section of Tasmania Police would be on the water this weekend reminding fishers of the closure.

Acting Inspector Pratt said that police had already begun notifying fishers in east coast communities that abalone and rock lobster were not to be taken until further notice.

“The initial reaction has been one of disappointment but while fishing is a very popular activity on the east coast, the public do not want to compromise their health,” he said.

Recreational fishers can be kept informed by going to www.fishing.tas.gov.au and register for the DPIPWE Fishing News email subscription service.