Expect to see an abundance of Australian scallops in seafood retailers from next week with the opening of the Commonwealth Scallop Fishery in Bass Strait today.
With the catch limit set at 3000 tonnes for this season, the highest the fishery has seen in six years, there should be plenty of these juicy delights in local seafood shops for you to enjoy.
The Australian Fishery Management Authority (AFMA) CEO, Dr James Findlay, said that the fishery is in great condition with operators set to have a strong season.
“A scientific survey conducted to assess the stock has shown that there are a good number of quality scallops available to be harvested this year in Bass Strait,” Dr Findlay said.
“This is great news for lovers of this versatile seafood.
“AFMA monitors the fishing fleet 24/7 to ensure it is harvesting sustainably and a healthy scallop stock is maintained for future years.
“The catch limit is set by the independent AFMA Commission and, based on the scientific advice, caps the amount of stock that can be harvested. AFMA provides further stock protection by closing areas of the fishery where large scallop beds are able to spawn undisturbed.
“This means that lovers of this succulent seafood can be certain when they buy Bass Strait scallops they are consuming a sustainable resource, not to mention supporting an important Australian industry.”
About 12 fishing boats work out of Tasmania and Victoria during the season which closes again on 31 December 2016.
For more information on how AFMA manages the Commonwealth Scallop Fishery, visit afma.gov.au.