Stiff fine for evading fishing licence
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A fisherman who failed to pay for a recreational fishing licence has ended up with a $600 fine - enough to have taken out licences for the next 24 years, Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said today.
The man was found fishing off Sow and Pigs Reef in Sydney Harbour when he was apprehended in November 2006.
"The man was issued with a $200 penalty infringement notice, but elected to take the matter to court," Minister Macdonald said.
"The magistrate found the man, from Denistone, guilty in his absence, and when he failed to appear for sentencing, brought down the $600 fine.
"The maximum penalty for this offence is $2,200.
"With the three-year licence fee at $75, the fine would have bought eight renewals."
All recreational fishers in NSW are required to pay the fishing fee, unless exempt, said Department of Primary Industries compliance manager Tony Andrews.
"With the current school holidays, and the October long weekend approaching, all fishers are reminded to ensure that they pay the fee before going fishing, and carry the receipt with them while fishing," Mr Andrews said.
Those who already have a fishing fee receipt are also reminded to check that the receipt is current and valid before going fishing.
DPI Fisheries officers will be patrolling waterways during the school holidays, including day and night patrols over the long weekend to ensure compliance with all fisheries legislation.
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