From Bondi to Stanwell Park, illegal fishers are being warned - there is a new Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries patrol boat ready to target offenders involved in illegal fishing activity, Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald said.

Powered by dual 75 hp, low emission outboard motors, the boat was also selected for its reliability, economy and environmental friendliness as well as ‘hot pursuit’ capability. It can seat up to three fisheries officers and is fitted with electronic navigation equipment. 

Minister Macdonald said the new high-speed DPI patrol boat has started conducting regular patrols of southern Sydney estuarine and ocean waters.

"The 5.8 metre vessel - a rigid hull inflatable boat - has significantly enhanced the State Government’s ability to ensure fishers are complying with NSW fishing rules and regulations," he said. 

"It is being used for recreational and commercial fishing vessel inspections in the estuarine waters of Botany Bay, Georges River and Port Hacking and offshore waters from Bondi to Stanwell Park," he said.

"This boat is ideal for coming alongside and boarding vessels at sea and greatly increases the ability of fisheries officers to undertake comprehensive vessel inspections.

"Officers check that fishers have paid their recreational fishing fees, monitor size and bag limits and ensure that both commercial and recreational fishers abide by the State’s fisheries laws."

DPI recently acquired the same class of boat to patrol the southern NSW coastline. 

"There are more than 90 DPI fisheries officers across NSW who enforce legislation relating to commercial and recreational fishing - and these boats will assist these officers no end," Minister Macdonald said.

Illegal fishing activity can be reported to your local DPI office or by calling the Fishers Watch hotline 1800 043 536.

Photos are available on request.

Media contact: Jason Bartlett, 0438 209 281 / Kristina Resanceff 0419 185 375