Tasmania Police and Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) are urging recreational fishers to stay safe on the water and be aware of the rules and regulations relating to recreational rock lobster fishing when the season opens on Saturday (3^rd November).

With the first weekend of the season often a busy one on the water, recreational fishers are urged to undertake last minute checks of their boats and safety gear and also read up on bag limits and licences before heading out onto the water for the start of the season.

“A simple check to confirm that all safety gear is present and in working order before heading out on to the water can save lives,” said MASTS’s manager of Recreational Boating, Peter Hopkins.

“It’s also a timely reminder that life jackets only save lives when they are worn. While their use is a necessity at all times on boats that are six metres and under, we recommend that life jackets are worn when on larger boats as well,” said Mr Hopkins.

Tasmania Police will be patrolling the waterways around the State all season, focusing on safe boating and ensuring that the rock lobster fishery is not abused. Police will also be able to provide up to date fisheries and boating advice to fishermen and recreational boaters.

“While everyone loves a day out on the water, alcohol and boating are a potentially lethal combination,” said Sergeant John Pratt, from Police Marine and Rescue Services.

“Boaters should not indulge in alcohol before going out on the water and just like when driving a car, boat skippers’ blood alcohol level must not exceed .05,” he said.

“Fishers should be aware of bag limits and requirements around licences, which are designed to protect and sustain the fishery – ignorance will not be a reasonable excuse for anyone found not adhering to the rules and regulations,” said Sergeant Pratt

Further information on the rules and regulations can be found at www.fishing.tas.gov.au.

Those planning to head out should also keep a close watch on the weather, both before embarking on a fishing trip and whilst on the water.  

"If in any doubt about the upcoming weather forecast, postpone your day out until you are sure that good weather conditions will be prevail,” said Mr Hopkins.

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