Illegal fishers caught in operation trap

A two day compliance operation by Industry & Investment (I&I) NSW Fisheries Officers on the State’s Mid North Coast targeting the unlawful use of crab and fish traps has resulted in the seizure of one hundred and seventy illegal crab traps, with hundreds of crabs and fish returned to the water alive.

NSW Primary Industries Minister Steve Whan said the Wallis Lake operation earlier this month, involved ten I&I NSW Fisheries Officers, including assistance from the Special Operations and Investigations Group and focussed on the unlawful use of fish and crab traps by both recreational and commercial users.

“I&I NSW Fisheries Officers checked more than 520 crab and fish traps and hoop nets, with 171 illegally used or unmarked traps and nets found by officers,” Mr Whan said.

“As a result, more than 260 crabs and fish were released back into the water alive.

“Legal proceedings will now commence against a number of commercial fishers for offences including unlawful use of traps, unlicensed fishing and contravening the relevant fishery Share Management Plan.

“We are particularly concerned that both recreational and commercial trappers do the right thing as blue swimmer and mud crabs approach the peak of their season on the mid north coast.”

I&I NSW Fisheries Compliance Director Glenn Tritton the rules are in place to ensure we have a sustainable crab fishery that is shared by all fishers.

“Up to five hoop or lift nets and one crab trap of legal size per person is allowed in areas open to this method of fishing,” Mr Tritton said.

“In addition, all traps must be marked with a buoy, clearly displaying the owner’s name while hoop nets must be marked with a tag clearly showing the owners name and address.

“The NSW Government takes fisheries crimes very seriously, and patrols will continue on the mid north coast over the summer period.

“People caught doing the wrong things, including interfering with someone else’s crab traps, will face tough penalties including maximum penalties of $22,000 for the unlawful use of traps and/or six months in prison.”

Details of trap dimensions, marking requirements and bag and size limits are available at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/regulations, and in the NSW Saltwater Fishing Guide.

The free guide is available from I&I NSW offices, and fishing licence agents, as well as bait and tackle shops.