New Season’s Crayfish Catch Allocation Surges by 60%
A significant increase in the total allowable catch (TAC) for West Coast rock lobster has been announced, marking a notable shift in the management of this critical marine resource. The new season’s TAC is set to rise by nearly 60%, from 505 tons to 800 tons for the 2025/26 season. This decision comes as a result of a projected small improvement in overall kreef stocks for the second consecutive year, which has allowed for a more generous allocation.
However, despite this positive development, concerns remain about the persistent issue of poaching and illegal sales of kreef. These activities continue to pose a serious threat to the sustainability of the fishery and have prompted calls for additional measures to combat them.
The government has taken steps to address these challenges, but the fishing community remains divided on the implications of the new TAC. While many are pleased with the increased catch limit, there is also dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the allocation, particularly the shortened four-month fishing season. This has raised questions about whether the industry will be able to meet the higher target within the given timeframe.
Economic and Ecological Significance
Kreef holds a vital position in South Africa’s fishing industry, ranking as the third most important catch after hake and small pelagics. Its annual value exceeds R500-million and supports approximately 4,300 jobs, both at sea and on land, especially in impoverished communities along the West Coast. The recent increase in the TAC is seen as a positive step for these communities, offering potential economic benefits.
Despite the optimism, the overall stock of kreef remains critically low. Current estimates place the biomass at just 1.4% of the level recorded in 1910, well below the threshold for a collapsed fishery. This highlights the ongoing need for careful management to ensure the long-term viability of the species.
Historical Context and Challenges
Historically, kreef catches peaked in the early 1950s, reaching up to 18,000 tons annually. However, by 1970, the stock had plummeted, and a continued decline has persisted since then. The lowest point was recorded in 2023, when the stock was estimated at only 1.1% of its historical biomass. Although there has been a slight improvement since then, the overall status of the kreef resource remains heavily depleted.
Scientists emphasize the importance of maintaining a curtailed fishing season to protect the species during its moult cycle and to reduce opportunities for poaching. According to some estimates, the illegal trade in kreef is at least double the legal TAC, further complicating recovery efforts.
Management Framework and Scientific Input
The kreef fishery is managed across five sectors: commercial offshore and small-scale offshore, commercial nearshore and small-scale nearshore, and recreational catches. Each sector operates under specific regulations and guidelines.
The 2025/26 TAC was determined by the Rock Lobster Scientific Working Group, which includes experts in crustacean research. Despite data limitations due to budget constraints, the group concluded that the available information supported a second consecutive year of improvement in most of the “Super-Areas” along the coast. They recommended the increased TAC, while also highlighting the need for effort limitation to curb poaching and protect the resource.
Reactions from Industry Stakeholders
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from various stakeholders. Shamera Daniels, chairperson of the West Coast Rock Lobster Association, expressed excitement about the increased TAC, noting that it reflects the sacrifices made by the industry over the years. Similarly, the Masifundise Development Trust welcomed the change, emphasizing its importance for small-scale fishers.
However, concerns were raised about the distribution of the TAC. Carmen Mannarino of the Masifundise Development Trust pointed out that the commercial sector is benefiting the most, while small-scale fishers face funding challenges that hinder their ability to fully capitalize on the new allocation.
Rovina Europa of Coastal Links South Africa shared a similar sentiment, acknowledging the benefits of the increased TAC but expressing reservations about the short fishing season and the challenges associated with the new small-scale fisheries policy.
Distribution of the 2025/26 TAC
The 800-ton TAC for the 2025/26 season will be distributed as follows:
- Commercial Offshore: 400 tons (50%)
- Commercial Nearshore: 136 tons (17%)
- Small Scale Nearshore: 136 tons (17%)
- Small Scale Offshore: 104 tons (13%)
- Recreational: 24 tons (<1%)
The recreational kreef fishing season will remain capped at 12 days, with specific dates to be confirmed.
