The well-known lobster fisherman, who with partner Narelle Morgan owns Nelson Bay Fish Market, said prawns had been scarce along the east coast of Australia, which had pushed the prices up.

However, he said fishermen would work hard to ensure supply met demand for Christmas, which would keep "prices reasonable".

"We'll have local lobsters and local oysters for certain," Mr Monin said.

"I'm reasonably confident we'll have some prawns from the Myall Lakes and Tuggerah Lake, some kings."

Mr Monin, who has been running seafood to stores and the co-op since 1977, said those wanting lake prawns for Christmas should consider buying them now and freezing them. For those not wanting to do that, they could "take a chance" on buying fresh king prawns which would hopefully come in next week.

Mr Monin said oysters were in good condition and "oddly enough" snapper was not in short supply, which would hopefully continue.

Calm weather was needed now so the "boys could work" at supplying customers with fresh seafood for Christmas.