Fisheries Officers with the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSWDPI) are cracking down on illegal crab fishing and black-market sales.
Director of Fisheries Compliance at NSWDPI, Brett Andrew said several people including a restaurant owner are in “hot water” for allegedly dealing illegally in crabs.
“Fisheries Officers inspected a restaurant in South West Rocks on 28 May and seized a large number of crustaceans,” Mr Andrew said.
“Mud crabs and blue swimmer crabs are quota managed species and mud crabs are a priority species under the state’s fisheries laws, attracting high penalties for contraventions.”
He said a total of 26 mud crabs, 35 blue swimmer crabs, two coral crabs and two Balmain bugs were seized.
“Only licensed commercial fishers are permitted to take fish for sale in NSW,” Mr Andrew said
“Any activity that could potentially undermine legitimate commercial fishing and compromise the strict quota system is concerning,” he said.
“The alleged offenders can expect to receive court attendance notices where they could face a maximum penalty of $110,000 if convicted.”
Mr Andrews said Fisheries Officers had seized 3,474 illegal crab traps over the past three years with 1,103 of those last financial year.
“We’ll continue to sustain this effort against illegal crab fishing to protect the resource and ensure it’s shared sustainably between legitimate users groups,” he said.
“The community is increasingly rejecting all forms of illegal fishing and we thank them for their ongoing support.”
Mr Andrew encouraged the community to report illegal activity to the Fishers Watch phone line on 1800 043 536.
An online form to report illegal activity can be accessed at this PS News link.
