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Craypot marker flag

Datebefore 1988

Object number00006047

NameMarker flag

MediumPlastic, cane, metal

DimensionsOverall: 4000 x 30.1 x 30.1 mm

ClassificationsTools and equipment

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis craypot marker flag features a polystyrene buoy attached to a pole, and an orange flag at the top for added visibility. Each craypot must be clearly marked with this type of marker flag and also contain the registration number of the fishing vessel, enabling the Department of Fisheries to check that only licensed pots are in use.HistoryLobster fishing in Australia began in the 19th century. Until the 1940s nearly all the catch was sold locally. In 1947 the first consignment of frozen lobster tails was shipped to the United States. A spectacular period of expansion followed with lobsters becoming Australia's second most valuable fishing industry after prawns. The Japanese market prefers the lobsters whole, either live or boiled while the American market fancies the tails. There is also a substantial domestic market for this crustacean. Four of out nine species of rock lobsters are fished commercially in Australian waters. A high proportion is exported and domestic prices reflect this. Lobsters are a luxury item for the Australian table. Fish heads and other animal remains are used as bait to lure lobsters into pots and traps. These have narrow tapered entrances from which escape is difficult. The traps are left for up to two days before being retrieved. Regulations protect the industry from overfishing. These restrictions include limits on the size and number of the pots, and specifications for an escape gap which lets undersize lobsters get out of the pot.SignificanceThis item is an example of the types of fishing technology and equipment used in the Lobster (Cray) Fishing Industry.