Back of boat lobster sales to increase for December
Lobster fishers have been given some good news for the upcoming holiday season with the WA Government approving a request from the Western Rock Lobster Council to double the number of lobsters sold directly from the back of a commercial fishing boat.
While back of boat sales only represent approximately one percent of total sales, the increase has been welcomed by local fishers keen to make up ground lost as a result of the trade issues with China.
Since its introduction in September 2020, more than 91,000 western rock lobsters have been sold via back of boat sales, with the bulk of these sold during peak seasons including Christmas and New Year, Chinese New Year and Easter.
Under the new agreement, commercial fishers will be able to sell up to 400 western rock lobsters per landing to meet demand over the Christmas period. Throughout the rest of the year, the fishers will be able to sell 200 lobsters from their vessels each landing.
The WA Fishing Industry Council is supportive of the program as it provides a local engagement between the fishers and the local customers, so locals can interact with the fishers and learn a little more about the fishing and the industry.
You can find out more about the Back of Boat sales and when to buy here.