Change to the Catch Limit for Swimming Shrimp

As of 1 November 2009, recreational collection of ‘swimming’ shrimp is subject to a volumetric limit of half a litre. The catch limit for swimming shrimp species is now separate from that of burrowing shrimp (all species including Bass yabby) which will remain at 100. The change will remove the need for anglers to actually count small, live shrimp, which can be difficult and time consuming. The actual number of swimming shrimp that can be taken in half a litre will vary depending on their size, but in some cases is likely to be more than the previous limit of 100. Burrowing shrimp are collected using a bait pump with a barrel size that can be no more than 8.5cm in diameter. However swimming shrimp are caught using traps or dip nets, meaning larger amounts can be caught at once, and separating them individually is much harder. The daily bag and possession limit of 100 for all shrimp species was implemented as part of the recent review of Victorian fisheries regulations and the introduction of the Fisheries Regulations 2009. A daily bag and possession limit of 100 for Bass yabbies was strongly supported in public submissions on the regulations review, and is the main reason this limit will remain for burrowing shrimp. A copy of the consultation plan and all submissions that were received in regards to the change in catch limit for Swimming Shrimp can be found on the Fisheries Consultative Arrangements page. A flyer that explains the new catch limit can be obtained by the bellow link. To view the flyer you will require a copy of Adobe Acrobat Viewer. A free copy can be downloaded from Adobe Acrobat (external link) Swmming shrimp catch limit flyer (PDF 276KB)