Hard line for illegal crabbing

Coffs Harbour Department of Primary Industries Fisheries officers will be taking a hard line on illegal crabbing offences over the coming holiday season.

DPI Fisheries and Solitary Islands Marine Parks officers have already seized more than 350 illegal crab traps in the past month.

“Crabs are usually quiet in the winter months but increase in activity over the warmer months of the year,” said DPI Supervising Fisheries Officer Ian Stockton.

“Officers will be targeting all fishing activity but crabbing offences will be a priority over this summer period.

“Crabs are heavily targeted by both commercial and recreational fishers.

“Unfortunately a diverse black market exists, which is common to many high value seafood species.”

Mr Stockton said consumers should buy crabs that are sold from reputable fish co-ops, retailers and restaurants.

“Don’t hesitate to ask the staff where the crabs are from,” Mr Stockton said.

“NSW Commercial fishers must land their catches in accordance with stringent NSW Food Authority regulations, so buyers can feel safe that seafood legally taken for sale in NSW is of the highest standard.”

In most areas recreational anglers are permitted one crab trap and five hoop or lift nets, commonly known as witches hats.

Although some local closures exist, it’s best to check with the local DPI Fisheries office or the Solitary Islands Marine Parks Office if fishing within the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

“Commercial fishers are reminded that commercial fish traps must be marked with the fisher’s registration number and the letter ‘C’,” Mr Stockton said.

Recreational anglers must have their name in letters not less than 50mm high and preferably their address and the words ‘CRAB TRAP’, or in the case of a hoop net or witches hat the owners name and address or name and boat registration.

These details must be recorded above the water on a float of at least 100mm in size.

“Any gear found not marked in accordance with the regulations will be seized, and prosecution action may be taken,” Mr Stockton said.
 
“Mud crabs have a minimum legal size limit of 8.5cm and a recreational bag limit of five per person.

“A person must not use or possess when on or adjacent to waters more than the maximum amount of fishing gear that may lawfully be used.

“Significant penalties exist for illegally taking mud crabs and Fisheries officers will not hesitate to issue offenders infringement notices or refer matters to the Local Court”.

People found breaking the rules not only risk large monetary penalties but also the seizure of catch, fishing gear, and even boats and motor vehicles.

Anyone with information regarding illegal fishing is encouraged to report it to the Coffs Harbour Fisheries Office on 02 6652 3977 Monday to Friday or Fishers Watch on 1800 043 536.