They lost their boats for pulling cray pots
Fisheries authorities were watching crayfish thieves' every move before pouncing and seizing their boatsOperation Bagana, a blitz on rock lobster offences in WA, has netted two more vessels for alleged interference with fishing gear and tampering with pots.
The recreational runabout and tinnie were seized by Fisheries and Marine Officers from Mandurah on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, and Rockingham the following day.
This follows the seizure of boats by crab nabbers in other states and even the crushing of a tinnie a few year's ago by Queensland Fisheres in an effort to send a message to the crustacean crooks to back off. Illegal activity is often rife leading up to Christmas.
Mandurah’s Supervising Fisheries and Marine Officer Jay Tonkin said the Department of Fisheries had mobilised significant resources across the West Coast for Operation Bagana.
"The community has strong views against rock lobster pot interference and we take their concerns seriously," Mr Tonkin said. "Commit a serious offence – you risk losing your boat – it’s that simple.
"Many Mandurah fishers will have seen the seized vessel now being used in an education role at various town boat ramps, to remind people of the potential consequences of breaking the rules.”
Fishing for rock lobster is a highly valued activity that is part of WA’s lifestyle for many people living in Perth and coastal communities.
Compliance Manager South Metropolitan John Breeden said this season’s forecast was for bumper catches and there were no excuses for stealing gear or lobsters from other fishers.
"Buy your own fishing gear and a licence, learn the rules and get out there... enjoy one of Australia’s best managed fisheries and catch your own gourmet seafood product," Mr Breeden said. "Leave other fishers’ gear alone, or be prepared to face the consequences."
In the first offence on Tuesday November 8, two men pleaded guilty and were fined over gear interference offences from last season around Rottnest Island.
A 53 year-old Hillarys man received fines and costs of $1688, while a 32 year-old man from Nedlands was ordered to pay a total of $2169. Both men had been unaware their every move was being carefully watched by Fisheries officers.
Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities is urged not to get involved, but to carefully observe what they see and call FishWatch on 1800 815 507. Information to support the ongoing Operation Bagana will assist Fisheries officers to target and catch fish thieves.
Mr Breeden said, in addition to any court imposed penalty, people, who did not demonstrate the values expected by the fishing community, faced the very real prospect of losing the privilege of engaging in licensed fishing activity, by having their recreational licences suspended or refused.
Everything you need to know about WA Cray Fishing Rules & Regs in this link here.
Photo Credit: Department of Fisheries WA
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