Australia: Lake Wooloweyah has opened for the start of the annual prawn trawl season on the Clarence River in New South Wales, said John Harrison Executive Officer of the Professional Fishermen's Association.
"Whilst the lake opens before the river (November 29) the commercial fishing industry is anxious considering that last season was the worst on record," he said.
"Whilst the signs from pocket net catches this week are encouraging the industry is cautious considering the disastrous season that finished earlier this year.
"The catches in the pocket nets are indicating in general a good-sized school prawn and this is very encouraging. It was the small size of the prawns last season that resulted in the fishery being closed for basically the bulk of the season."
The self imposed closures last season may bring a positive outcome for this upcoming season – only time will tell however we remain hopeful that the sacrifices the industry made last season will reap rewards.
"We are hopeful that the move to preserve stocks will benefit the trawl season before us now," he said.
"School prawns are not only an important part of the culture of the people of the Clarence but they are appreciated throughout New South Wales as a signature product of this region.
"The prawn season is keenly anticipated by all lovers of fine seafood and particularly those who appreciate regional individuality in quality products," Mr Harrison concluded.
