Cape town: The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced a 58.4% increase in the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and Total Allowable Effort (TAE) for the 2025/2026 West Coast Rock Lobster fishing season. The increase is part of a strategy to ensure both ecological recovery and economic opportunity for this iconic fishery.
According to South African Government News Agency, the TAC will rise from 505 tonnes in 2024/2025 to 800 tonnes for 2025/2026. This decision follows the latest scientific assessment, which indicates signs of recovery in the resource. The TAC will be distributed among different sectors: Commercial Offshore (400 tonnes), Commercial Nearshore (136 tonnes), Recreational (24 tonnes), Small Scale Nearshore (136 tonnes), and Small Scale Offshore (104 tonnes).
To protect the stock, the fishing season will remain capped at four months per zone, typically from 15 November 2025 to 15 March 2026. The limit prevents harvesting during sensitive biological periods and helps curb poaching. Although the industry had requested an extension to six months, this was declined to ensure further recovery of the stock.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment also reviewed other industry requests, such as landing rights for nearshore holders on behalf of others and weekend fishing in May and June, but these were also declined due to concerns about poaching and stock monitoring. However, Dr George emphasized the department’s willingness to continue engaging with the industry to find solutions that protect marine ecosystems while addressing community needs.
For recreational fishers, the season is set at 12 days, with specific dates to be confirmed by amendments to the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) Regulations. Stakeholders may appeal TAC and TAE decisions within 30 days by contacting the designated email addresses.
The increase in TAC and TAE reflects a positive outlook for the West Coast Rock Lobster, highlighting South Africa’s commitment to building a sustainable fishery that supports jobs, strengthens communities, and preserves the country’s marine heritage.