Golden Perch theft along Murray River

2 Sep 2021

A 53-year-old Melbourne man is facing charges after exceeding both the daily limit and possession limit for Golden Perch, as well as taking a threatened Silver Perch from the Murray River.

On Friday 6 August, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries Officers undertaking surveillance on the Murray River near Mildura weir seized the boat and a quantity of fish and equipment from a repeat offender.

Director for Fisheries Compliance, Dr Andrew Moriarty said the man was also using and in possession of more than two handheld lines, which is prohibited.

“Officers located ten whole Golden Perch and one half-eaten Golden Perch in a cooking pot at the rear of the vessel,” Dr Moriarty said.

“Upon further inspection, officers then located one Silver Perch - a protected species- and five rigged rods and lines on the floor of the vessel.

“Upon unscrewing the flooring in the bow of the vessel the savvy officers located a further 9 Golden Perch hidden from sight.

“In addition, a sunken keeper net containing 6 Golden Perch was located that had been pegged to the bed of the river.”

After apprehending the man, Fisheries Officers seized the offender’s boat, motor and trailer; dive belt weight; fishing nets, fishing rod and esky as well as 25 Golden Perch and a Silver Perch.

“It is important for fishers to understand the rules and regulations surrounding bag limits of Golden Perch as well as possession limits,” Dr Moriarty said.

“Golden Perch have a daily limit of 5 and a possession limit of 10 per person, the man was found in breach of this and is now facing charges.

“There is no tolerance for recidivist offenders, and we will continue to target, apprehend, and prosecute these people who choose to flout our fishing rules and regulations.”

The public are encouraged to report illegal fishing activity to the NSW Fishers Hotline on 1800 043 536 or via the online Report Illegal Activity Form

Media contact: 02 6391 3686