Fish 'in posession' laws bite

Two fishers have learned an expensive lesson in North Queensland after receiving fines totalling $10,000 for not following the recreational fishing rules.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district manager Rob McDonald said this should send a message to fishers that it was extremely important to know and understand the rules.

"A possession limit refers to the total number of fish an individual can legally take and have in their possession at any one time -- it does not apply on a per day basis," Mr McDonald said.

"This includes the fish you have caught previously that are in your esky, on your boat or in the freezer at home."

Appearing at the Proserpine Magistrate´s Court on January 16, one fisher was charged with four offences under the Fisheries Act.

"QBFP officers executed a search warrant at the Proserpine fisher´s residence, locating excessive quantities of crustaceans and no-take species," Mr McDonald said.

"The fisher was caught with 15 mud crabs and 38 tropical rock lobsters in excess of the limit, as well as three tar-spot tropical rock lobsters and an undersized mud crab.

"Pleading guilty to the charges, the fisher was convicted and fined a total of $7500."

In the second matter, prosecuted in the Bowen Magistrate´s Court on January 15, a NSW fisher was also charged with four offences.

"After receiving complaints from the public, QBFP officers searched the NSW fisher´s campsite and located 16 barramundi fillets in excess of the limit, three crab claws without the body and two litres of crab meat in his freezer", said Mr McDonald.

"The fisher pleaded guilty to the charges and was fined a total of $3500."

Mr McDonald said fishers travelling interstate needed to fish responsibly and check the state rules before crossing the border.

"Fishing rules and regulations can be different across state borders, but individuals are responsible for knowing the rules for the area they intend to fish and sticking to them", he said.

"The Queensland Recreational Boating and Fishing Guide contains the fishing rules and is readily available online, over the phone or from your local bait and tackle store".

"We encourage people to report unlawful or suspicious fishing activities by calling the Fishwatch Hotline on 1800 017 116."

For more information on the recreational fishing rules and a copy of the Queensland Recreational Boating and Fishing Guide, visit fisheries.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.