Prawn fishing is not permitted within waters less than 10 metres in depth. Whilst the fishing grounds cover a relatively large area of the West Coast and Spencer Gulf, they are adjusted based on survey results and commercial catch statistics. Some areas have been permanently closed to fishing to protect juvenile prawns, other fish species, high biodiversity areas (including rocky or reef systems) and generally fishing only takes place in areas where catch is known to be located.

The main home ports for the fisheries are Port Lincoln, Wallaroo, Port Adelaide and Venus Bay.