April 2, 2026
Keep imported, supermarket prawns on your plate – don’t use them as bait.
Prawns or seafood purchased from supermarkets or fishmongers should not be used as bait, as this may introduce exotic diseases into Australian waters, such as white spot disease. Imported prawns are required to be labelled for human consumption only and not for use as bait.
White spot disease is a highly contagious viral infection that affects crustaceans, and we don’t want it here in Victoria. It is not harmful to humans but, once introduced, the consequences will have a significant impact on our wild fisheries.
Victoria’s fisheries are arguably in good shape and we want to keep it that way. We can all play our part in preventing the entry of diseases to our waterways by following these tips:
- Seafood intended for human consumption shouldn’t be used as fishing bait
- Use locally sourced bait for fishing
- Only dispose of seafood in general waste, not in the ocean or waterways
- Keep your fishing gear, boat and trailer clean. Make sure that you remove bait, debris and seaweed.
- Use soapy water to clean your boat and trailer, fishing rods and other equipment. Allow them to dry completely before using them at another location, even if it is on the same day.
The NSW Government has a range of information on stopping the spread of white spot disease.
