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NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Responsible Abalone harvesting

NSW recreational Abalone fishers are encouraged to use specially designed blunt Abalone tools to help reduce injury to Abalone and improve the survival of undersized individuals returned to the water.

To support best-practice harvesting techniques, NSW DPIRD has developed a Responsible Abalone Tool and Measure that fishers can use for Abalone collection. This tool is designed to remove Abalone from rocky substrates without damaging their delicate soft tissue, or the reef area, ensuring undersized, returned Abalone survive.

Here are a few tips on how to responsibly harvest Abalone effectively and sustainably:

Carry a purpose designed Abalone Tool 

  • Use the Proper Tool: Carry a dedicated Abalone tool when you target Abalone – ensuring it meets local regulations.
  • Safety Lanyard: Attach a lanyard to your tool to prevent dropping it or losing it in deep water.
  • Avoid Sharp Objects: Do not use sharp-edged instruments to remove Abalone, as these can cause deep cuts, potentially resulting in their death even if they are returned to the water.

Measure Before Detaching

  • Measure First: Many dedicated Abalone tools have a built-in measuring gauge, which is essential for determining the legal size before removal from the rock.
  • Adhere to Limits: Only remove Abalone that meet the minimum legal size (11.7 cm) and do not exceed the bag limit of two.

Proper Removal Technique

  • Insert Tool: Slide the blunt end of the Abalone iron under the shell, between the abalone and the rock surface.
  • Lever Gently but Swiftly: Use a firm, quick, and smooth motion to lever the Abalone off the reef.
  • Minimize Damage: Do not pry too hard or damage the foot of the Abalone or the surrounding reef structure.
  • If it won't budge: If the Abalone is clamped down too tightly, leave it alone to avoid damaging it.

Handling

  • Immediate Release: If an Abalone is undersized, immediately replace it on the same rock surface.

By adopting these improved practices, we can help ensure the long-term sustainability of Abalone stocks while maintaining the quality of the catch.

Request a Free Responsible Abalone Tool

NSW DPIRD is currently providing a limited number of Responsible Abalone Tools to NSW recreational fishers free of charge. To request a tool, please send an email to: fisheries.info@dpird.nsw.gov.au

Include your name and address and title the email: “Free Abalone Tool” We welcome your feedback on the performance and usability of the tool. Your input will help inform future strategies to improve Abalone handling practices across NSW.