Fishers caught at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve

Two men have been have been fined $500 each for fishing illegally within the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve near Manly.

"A fisheries officer witnessed one man using a fishing rod and the other using a spear to take eels from rock pools," Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said.

"It is alleged that both men were taking fish illegally at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve.

"The fisheries officer seized 20 moray eels, along with one fishing rod and a hand spear.

"Some small areas such as Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve are closed to all fishing and collecting to help to conserve the range of marine life and habitats and support education and research activities.

"Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is highly valued by the Manly community as a great spot for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving.

"Research indicates the 20 hectare reserve is home to around 160 species of fish and 25 species of algae.

"Some species such as eels can aggregate, making them highly susceptible to capture in large numbers, especially during spawning."

Mr Tritton said there were plenty of other locations along the Sydney coast to legally catch moray eels and recreational fishers are encouraged to obtain a local fishing guide from the DPI at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au

"DPI balances the conservation of marine life, and ensures fish stocks are sustainably harvested through a combination of management actions," he said.

"We have aquatic reserves, marine parks, area and seasonal closures on fishing, as well as fishing gear, fish size and bag limit restrictions in place.

"This ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the State’s marine life and the fishing opportunities available to us today."

Anyone witnessing illegal fishing is urged to contact their local fisheries office, call the Fishers Watch hotline on 1800 043 536, or complete the on-line report form at www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au

All information received in good faith is treated confidentially.

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