Snapper fishers warned of compliance crackdown
Fisheries Victoria launches 'Operation Venture' targeting snapper anglers on Port Phillip and Western Port baysFisheries Victoria has launched a timely compliance campaign today (Friday October 28) called Operation Venture that focusses on enforcing snapper catch limits, checking fishing licences, and educating anglers about fishing responsibly in Port Phillip and Western Port.
As the Melbourne Cup marks the start of the Victorian snapper season, with a marked increase in boats and anglers on the bays, Fisheries Victoria has stepped up its presence. On-the-spot fines of $466 per offence can be issued to anyone exceeding catch limits, it warns.
If you reach your bag limit of 10 fish, all above the minimum of 28cm but with only three fish bigger than 40cm, then you can keep fishing so long as you release any fish caught thereafter.
It is advisable to release your snapper boatside and with the fish still in the water, Fisheries Victoria says, rather than risk it dying on deck and adding to your tally. High grading or up-sizing your catch is illegal, too.
FIVE KEY SNAPPER RELEASE TIPS
1. Fish shallow water to avoid your fish suffering barotrauma
2. Leave snapper in the water for release
3. Minimise handling and netting
4. Use circle hooks or lures
5. Release snapper quickly
COVERT OPERATIONS AND JET SKIS
Fisheries Victoria says there will be covert and highly visible fishing patrols. Officers will patrol day and night, from the shore, aboard vessels and at boat launching ramps. They’ll be in uniform and plain clothes, undertaking inspections and surveillance from marked and unmarked vessels, including jet skis.
Anglers hiding illegal snapper catches aboard can expect to have their fish and boat seized and, for more serious offences, the courts can prohibit fishing altogether for a year or more.
Fishing responsibly means:
>> Abiding by the minimum size of 28cm and the bag limit of 10, of which only three snapper can equal or exceed 40cm
>> Releasing unwanted snapper quickly and in a manner that minimises injury
>> Snapper to be kept, must be landed whole so they can be measured by Officers
>> It is illegal to multi-trip, which is making several fishing trips in one day, retaining the bag limit each time
>> It is illegal to fin-clip snapper tails to shorten their length
Officers will again be working with Maritime Safety Victoria, which is encouraging skippers to check safety gear before venturing out, stay tuned to weather forecasts, steer clear of ships while underway and avoid anchoring in channels.
Anyone who sees or suspects illegal fishing can ring 13FISH (133474). You can help your released snapper survive by following the top tips and protocols at the VR Fish page.
Photo Credits: VR Fish, Reel Time Charters, Fisheries Victoria.
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