Cockburn Sound reopens to recreational crabbing after decade closure

For the first time in a decade, recreational fishers will be able to catch blue swimmer crabs in the Cockburn Sound.

The State Government will reopen the Cockburn Sound for crabbing from December 1 after a ten year closure to support stock recovery.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's (DPIRD) latest assessment shows there is enough stock to support recreational fishing only.

Commercial fishers will have the opportunity to sell their licences back to the State Government.

The bag limit for Cockburn Sound will be the same as the Swan River which is five per day or a boat limit of 20 per day (when four Recreational Fishing Boat Licence holders are on board).

"It's great news that we are able to offer more recreational fishing opportunities following the recent reopening of fishing for southern garfish from Lancelin to Myalup," Fisheries Minister Don Punch said.

"We are continuing to manage our State's fisheries sustainably and find the right balance for recfishers in Perth and the regions to enjoy this very popular activity."

The annual closure between September 1 and November 30 will also apply in Cockburn Sound to protect the blue swimmer crab breeding stock.