Spear fisherman convicted

Spearing NSW’s official state fish has resulted in fines and professional costs of $3660 plus court costs after a man was convicted for killing six blue groper on the NSW north coast.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Director of Fisheries Compliance, Glenn Tritton, said the blue groper was made the official state fish emblem of NSW in 1998.

"It is extremely disappointing to see this type of blatant disregard for the rules especially when blue groper have been protected from spear fishing for nearly 45 years," Mr Tritton said.

"It is protected from spear fishing because it is so tame and inquisitive, so it is highly vulnerable to this method of fishing," he added.

The incident took place in April 2013 at Chaos Reef offshore of Evans Head.

When approached by fisheries officers the 59-year-old man from Noosaville Queensland was found in possession of six blue groper.

Further investigations by fisheries officers revealed the man was an experienced spearfishermen and held an Australian spear fishing record in 1972.

The man appeared in Maclean Local Court last week.

"Fishers are also reminded to check the fishing rules which apply across NSW, ignorance is no excuse."

The blue groper grows to a large size and is found near inshore reefs along the NSW coast.

It changes sex from female to male during its life cycle and the largest specimens are predominantly males that are coloured bright blue from which it takes its name.

Anyone witnessing any illegal fishing activity is urged to contact their local fisheries office immediately or to call Fishers Watch on 1800 043 536.