FISHERS on the East Coast of Tasmania may have to wait longer than usual to set craypots this year, with the algal bloom still affecting waterways in the area.
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Tasmanian Association for Recreational Fishing chief executive Mark Nikolai said it was unclear whether the Eastern Region rock lobster season would open on the third Saturday in November as planned.
"It's under a bit of a cloud at the moment because of the toxic algal bloom," he said.
"My understanding is the test results that are due back on or around the 9th of November will determine whether the fishery actually opens on the 21st or not in the Eastern region."
Mr Nikolai said catches were generally reasonably subdued in the early part of the season.
"As we head towards Christmas, when people are on holidays, it's fortuitous that the fish tend to be moving around and feeding more prolifically so your chances of catching a rock lobster are increased."
Mr Nikolai also urged fishers to familiarise themselves with the new rules and regulations put in place for 2015.
Eastern region rock lobster possession limits have been reduced from six to four, while bag limits have been cut from three to two.
Boat limits for rock lobster have also been reduced from 15 to 10 irrespective of the number of days fished.
"I would single out one particular area that's different this year than previous years and that's Bruny Island, so people really must understand the changes that have been made for the Bruny Island fishing area."
