The Western Rock Lobster fishery is the largest spiny lobster fishery in the world and is also Australia’s most valuable fishery. Western Rock Lobster is caught only on the western coast, around rocky reef habitats. Considered a ‘cold water’ species, the Western Rock Lobster achieves a premium in all market forms (live or frozen).
These lobsters go through changes that affect their appearance and quality. They are commonly referred to as whites and reds. White (pink) Western Rock Lobsters which have recently moulted have a lighter, softer shell and are typically caught when they migrate across the sand in-shore to breed and grow. Red lobsters are older and harder shelled, and are generally caught on reefs between February and October.
100% of Western Rock Lobsters sold by Wild Oceans are wild-caught.
Sustainability & Management
The Western Rock Lobster was the first fishery in the world to be officially accredited by MSC (Marine Stewardship Council).
The Quota fishery runs over the full 12 months each year and currently totals around 6000-8000mt, although historically has averaged annually over 10,000mt.