Port Augusta man fined
Monday, 17 February 2003

A 40 year old Port Augusta man has been found guilty in the local Magistrates Court for taking more than twice the daily bag limit of razor fish.

He was fined more than $500.

Primary Industries and Resources SA (PIRSA) Fisheries officers watched Steven John Smith collecting razor fish near Shack Road, about 15 kms south west of Port Augusta.

A subsequent search of his vehicle uncovered a total of 105 razor fish. The daily bag limit for razor fish is 50.

Officers were in the area in response to a call from the public to the Fishwatch telephone service. Fishwatch is a 24 hour telephone number which enables anyone to report suspected illegal fishing.

The Fishwatch number is 1800 065 522.

Regional Manager, North, Paul Faithow said the taking of razor fish is a hot issue in the Port Augusta area at this time of the year.

“We have been receiving reports through the Fishwatch number on a regular basis that some fishers are taking more than their daily bag limit,” he said.

“These people need to know that the community is prepared to report any suspected illegal fishing and Fisheries Officers are prepared to respond.

“We recognise that this is an issue of concern in the region and we will continue to commit resources to address the problem.