Brownlip Abalone
Haliotis conicopora
Also known as: Brownlip, Conical Pore Abalone
Regulations & Limits
Combined Bag Limit
Greenlip and Brownlip abalone share a combined daily bag limit of 5. Total of both species cannot exceed 5.
Zone 3 Advantage
Unlike greenlip, brownlip remains OPEN in Zone 3 (Busselton to Shoal Cape) with a bag limit of 5. This is an option when greenlip is closed in this area.
Always verify current rules at rules.fish.wa.gov.au
Size
| Legal Min | 140mm shell width |
| Typical Size | 140-160mm |
| Max Size | 180mm |
Slightly smaller than greenlip on average.
Habitat & ID
Where: Rocky reefs, limestone platforms, exposed coastlines
Depth: 1-30m (usually shallower than greenlip)
Key ID: Brown lip edge (vs green). Ribbed/corrugated shell surface - key difference from smooth greenlip. Usually found in slightly different habitat zones.
Season (Southern Zone)
Season: October 1 to May 15 (Southern Zone). Closed June-September.
How to Collect Brownlip Abalone
Same techniques as greenlip. Free diving on rocky reefs.
Equipment
Essential Gear
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Wetsuit
- Abalone iron/lever
- Catch bag
- 140mm measuring gauge
- Dive flag
Notes
- No SCUBA allowed
- Dive with a buddy
- Check conditions first
Finding Brownlip
Where to Look
- More exposed coastlines than greenlip
- Rocky reef platforms
- Often shallower water
- Look for ribbed shells
Key Differences
- Ribbed shell (greenlip is smooth)
- Often in more surge zones
- Brown vs green lip edge
- Slightly different taste
Measure Before Removing
Must measure 140mm across widest part of shell before removing from reef. Undersize abalone have poor survival if detached.
Eating Quality
Flesh: Firm, sweet, slightly different flavour to greenlip
Best cooked: Pan-fried quickly, sashimi, crumbed
Note: Some say slightly chewier than greenlip. Equally prized.
đ¤ŋ The Dive
Brownlip are often found in more exposed areas with more surge. This can make collection more challenging. Good breath-hold skills and experience in rougher conditions are valuable.
Where in WA
Regions: South Coast, West Coast
Best Areas: Augusta to Esperance coastline
Note: Open in Zone 3 (unlike greenlip)