Environment and Food Minister Phil Gawne says he was 'disappointed' at the reaction of crab and lobster fishermen to a request for more information about the industry.

At a meeting on Tuesday, there was deep suspicion among the fishermen after a marine scientist from the department said knowledge about their fishing grounds was sketchy and asked for help to provide more information.

Many thought such information could be used to fence off some of the most profitable areas in order to ensure the future of stocks.

Minister Gawne says he's not looking to introduce a policy to close any areas to crab and lobster fishing but adds more information is needed if the department is to try and help the industry develop.