Dubbo man to face illegal fishing charges

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) will lay a number of charges against a Dubbo man who was allegedly caught illegally fishing in the Macquarie River.

DPI Director of Compliance Operations, Paul O’Connor, said the 34 year old man, who is known to DPI, was observed by a Fisheries Officer using an illegal net and had more than 20 times the number of legally allowed set lines.

‘Gill nets are banned in NSW because of the serious risk that they pose to the long term sustainability of NSW fish stocks.

‘The net, which is shaped like a square, is normally set in still water and basically catches anything that is moving in the river or lake. Fish are generally captured by their gills hence the nets name,’ Mr O’Connor said.

It’s alleged that the fisher was operating one net in the Macquarie River and in possession of 6 other gill nets. It’s also alleged that the Dubbo man had 80 set lines in his possession on the river.

The man will face four charges with maximum penalties totalling $88,000 and or imprisonment for 6 months.

‘Recreational fishers in western flowing streams in NSW are allowed a maximum of four set lines and one hand held line at any one time.

‘We make no apologies for the rules that we have in place, such as banning gill nets and limiting the number of set lines, because they help ensure the sustainability and viability of NSW fisheries,’ Mr O’Connor said.

It’s also alleged that the man was in possession of a Murray Cod, which was returned live to the water. Between the 1 September and 30 November the Murray Cod fishery is closed to allow fish to breed.

‘NSW DPI fisheries officers depend on receiving accurate and timely information from the public to help detect and deter illegal fishing. I encourage all fishers to report any suspicious activity to their local DPI Fisheries office or by calling the Fishers Watch Hotline on 1800 043 536,’ Mr O’Connor said.