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There’s good news for South Aussies who love a day at the beach with their feet in the sand and a bucket in hand! Goolwa’s much-loved pipi season is returning this weekend, and this time, the popular seafood delicacy is officially safe to eat again.
From Sunday, 1 November, recreational fishers can head to Goolwa Beach to collect pipis, following confirmation from SA Health that they are once again safe for consumption.
It’s a welcome turnaround after last season, when pipis collected from Goolwa Beach were restricted to bait use for most of the season due to elevated brevetoxin levels associated with the algal bloom.
Now, testing through the South Australian Shellfish Quality Assurance Program has confirmed those levels have dropped well below food safety limits, giving South Aussies the green light to enjoy their catch again.
For many families, collecting pipis is a favourite summer tradition, combining a trip to the coast with the chance to bring home some fresh local seafood.
And with warmer weather on the way, the timing couldn’t be better.
The recreational pipi fishery will reopen along Goolwa Beach up to the Murray Mouth, although some restrictions remain in place.
Areas along the Younghusband Peninsula, also known as Coorong Beach, between the Murray Mouth and 28 Mile Crossing will remain closed to recreational harvesting.
Those planning to head out should also remember that pipis must measure at least 3.5cm across the widest part of their shell, with daily bag and vehicle limits applying.
It’s not just pipis making a return this weekend, either.
The 2026–27 Southern Rock Lobster season also kicks off in the Northern Fishing Zone at noon on Sunday, 1 November, giving seafood lovers another reason to get out on the water.
Recreational fishers can catch up to four Southern Rock Lobsters per person per day, with boat limits of four for one person or eight for two or more people.
Minimum legal sizes differ between fishing zones, measuring 10.5cm in the Northern Zone and 9.85cm in the Southern Zone.
PIRSA Director of Operations, Fisheries and Aquaculture Matt Read said the opening of both seasons would be welcome news for recreational fishers.
“We know how much South Australians love fishing, and many recreational fishers will be looking forward to the opening of the annual Rock Lobster and pipi seasons, particularly now that pipis are back on the menu.”
He also reminded fishers to familiarise themselves with the regulations before heading out.
“So before you head to Goolwa or cast a pot this weekend, we want to remind everyone that it’s the responsibility of all fishers to know the rules before you fish.”
Rock lobster pots must be registered and comply with equipment requirements, while recreationally caught lobsters must have their middle tail fan clipped or punched with a hole before being brought ashore. Females carrying eggs must be returned to the water immediately.
Whether you’re planning a family outing to Goolwa Beach or heading offshore in search of Southern Rock Lobster, it’s shaping up to be a big weekend for South Australia’s recreational fishing community.
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