Pipis popular at Cape Liptrap this summer

by Alan Everett on 10 Dec 2010 Fisheries Victoria has issued a reminder about catch limits for collecting pipis this summer.

Fisheries Victoria Executive Director, Anthony Hurst, said the increasing popularity of collecting pipis for food was a sign of Victoria’s vibrant and growing multicultural fishing community.

'Collecting pipis at Cape Liptrap and other parts of the state has become a great outdoor activity for many families,' Mr Hurst said.

'It is fantastic to see so many families having fun doing the ‘pipi twist’ on the beach.

'At Fisheries Victoria, we know the importance of sustainably managing the annual pipi harvest to ensure they can be enjoyed now and into the future.

Mr Hurst said there was a special personal daily limit of 2 litres with shells or half a litre without shells, which applied to pipis taken between Point Smythe and Arch Rock, including Venus Bay.

'Signage at beach access points will remind visitors this summer of the pipi catch limits and information will once again be widely distributed by Fisheries Victoria staff,' Mr Hurst said.

'Pipis may only be collected using hands and feet. 'Pipis collectors are reminded that tools of any size or shape must not be used on the beach, and fishers must possess a valid Recreational Fishing Licence, unless exempt. Mr Hurst said recent research undertaken by Fisheries Victoria scientists indicated pipis reached maturity at 13 months.

'The research also showed that the bulk of pipis were collected within 10 centimetres of the sand’s surface. 'Fisheries Victoria is dedicated to sustainably managing the state’s fish resources for the whole community,' Mr Hurst said.

More information about pipis at Cape Liptrap or catch limits can be obtained by visiting www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries click here

Anyone observing illegal fishing activity is encouraged to call the 24-hour reporting line 13-FISH (13-3474).