Third man charged with illegal sale of fish
Friday, 3 September 2004

A Wallaroo man is to be charged by Fisheries Officers with the illegal use of a fish net and for selling fish without a licence.

He is the third man from Yorke Peninsula to be charged with illegal fish sales in the last month.

The charges are a result of information received from members of the local community and SA Police.

Fisheries Officers interviewed the man and as a result, seized a quantity of fish, a vessel, trailer and two fish nets.

PIRSA Fishwatch Manager Compliance Operations, Paul Tatarelli said several members of the community had contacted Fishwatch regarding the man’s activities.

“The use of nets by recreational fishers in coastal waters of the State has been illegal for a number of years. The fact that these people were prepared to respond to Fishwatch, highlights the community’s concern with this type of illegal activity,” he said.

Mr Tatarelli also said the illegal sale of fish by unlicensed fishers was an area of concern.

“This type of illegal activity is cheating on those responsible licensed fish sellers who have taken steps to obtain the necessary accreditation and permits,” Mr Tatarelli said.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected illegal fishing activity to the 24 hour Fishwatch telephone number 1800 065 522 and Fisheries Officers will respond accordingly.”