Anglers warned on illegal acts

The Department of Fisheries has sent a stern warning to commercial and recreational anglers that any illegal fishing activity will likely result in prosecution and hefty financial penalties.

The warning comes after the recent prosecution of four fishermen, including Albany commercial operator Michael Williams, who was fined $17,720 in the Albany Magistrate’s Court late last month for stealing fish from another angler’s nets.

Fisheries are now reviewing Mr Williams’ commercial licence after the conviction.

Fisheries compliance manager south Richard Petty said commercial fisheries were subject to inspections of their catch and activities on a frequent basis and patrols and inspections were regular.

“The prospects of being observed by Fisheries and marine officers or other members of the public are high,” he said.

“We have a strong capacity to detect the activities, and do so more often than not.

“Such activity will most likely result in being prosecuted and penalties in the past have been in the vicinity of $8000 per individual for recreational fishers, and in the tens of thousands for commercial fishers.”