Two local commercial fishers have been allegedly caught interfering with set fishing gear

in Port Stephens, as a result of a recent compliance operation conducted by NSW

Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) fisheries officers.

Fisheries officers also seized 31 illegal crab traps as part of the operation.

NSW DPI Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said the operation took place in

the Port Stephens estuary to target the unlawful use of crab and fish traps by commercial

and recreational fishers.

“Two commercial fishers will be interviewed after they were allegedly found to be

interfering with set fishing gear in the Port Stephens estuary,” Mr Tritton said.

“They will face a number of charges, some which carry a maximum penalty of $22,000 and

or six month imprisonment under the provisions of the Fisheries Management Act 1994.”

Mr Tritton said the operation was a timely reminder for fishers that they must follow the

rules when fishing for crabs this summer to help ensure the sustainability of the crab

fishery.

“Recreational fishers are reminded that they may use one crab trap and up to five hoop

nets per person, but some waterways have closed areas, so always check on any

restrictions with your local fisheries officer,” Mr Tritton said.

“Crab traps and hoop nets have a range of conditions that apply to their lawful use,

including marking with the users’ name and address, more details are contained in the

NSW Recreational Saltwater Fishing Guide 2012.

“Licensed commercial fishers work under stringent conditions set out in the Fisheries

Management (Estuary General Share Management Plan 2006) Regulation when fishing in

the Port Stephens estuary.

“It is also important for all fishers to remove cabbage weed from your trap and float to

prevent damage to marine life, such as sea turtles which inhabit the waters of Port

Stephens and other estuaries along our coastline.

“Fisheries officers will continue target the illegal use of crab and fish crabs to ensure that

the rules are being followed.

“Illegal traps will be seized and offenders will be prosecuted.”

Fishers should report crab trap theft, illegal crab fishing activity and the illegal sale of crabs

to their local Fisheries Office or call the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536.

Media contact: Lyndall Hilder 6391 3312 or 0409 383 423

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