Targeted patrols net illegal commercial fishers

Two commercial fishers have been fined and a meshing net over 1,000 metres long has been seized as a result of targeted patrols by NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) fisheries officers on the State’s Mid-North Coast. 

NSW DPI Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said that these targeted patrols, some based on reports from the public, focussed on uncovering and detecting the unlawful use of commercial meshing nets in Wallis Lakes.   

“Two commercial fishers were allegedly found unlawfully using nets and possessing illegally taken fish,” Mr Tritton said.  

“Two meshing nets of 1045 metres and 373 metres in length were seized along with over 110 kilograms of fish, including dusky flathead, yellowfin bream and sand whiting. 

“Most of the fish were returned to the water alive and the seized meshing nets, worth about $5,000, will be retained by the Department.” 

Offences detected in Wallis Lake District as part of the operation include: 

• A 35 year old commercial fisher from Tuncurry was fined $500 for the unlawful use of a net 
• A 31 year old commercial fisher from Nabiac was fined a total of $1000 for unlawful use of a net and possessing illegally taken fish. 

Mr Tritton said that fisheries officers regularly conduct overt and covert patrols across NSW to detect and deter this kind of illegal fishing activity. 

“The use of meshing nets by commercial fishers is subject to a range of strict guidelines that determine areas and methods of use and size limitations,” he said. 

“Individuals face a maximum fine of $22,000 for the unlawful use of nets and $22,000 for the possession of illegally taken fish, while both offences can also result in six months imprisonment. This penalty is doubled for second or subsequent offences. 

“We will continue to target the illegal use of meshing nets in the Wallis Lake District. 

“If you are using illegal commercial fishing nets, you have an increasing risk of getting caught.”   

Anyone who witnesses illegal fishing activity should report it immediately to the Fishers’ Watch Phone Line on
1800 043 536 or to their local fisheries office. 

More information on fishing rules and regulations is available from fisheries offices and at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries.

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