Snappy response to 13FISH call nets five anglers

by agriculture.vic.gov.au on 7 Jan 2016 Five Melbourne men have been caught at Portland with 38 undersized fish, including 36 snapper, after fisheries officers responded to a 13FISH call from a member of the public earlier this week (January 4).

The Broadmeadows and Reservoir men, aged from 22 to 53 will collectively be fined $2,731 for offences including fishing without a licence and taking undersized fish.

Acting Regional Supervising Fisheries Officer (Western) Joshua Hannaford said the incident occurred at the end of Portland Harbour’s Trawler Wharf.

“Portland Fisheries Officers promptly responded to a 13FISH report made by a member of the public late on Monday, with the illegal catch including 36 snapper, one King George whiting and one flat head. In a total bag of 40 fish only two were legal size.

“Three men will receive two infringement notices, for fishing without a current recreational fishing licence and taking undersize fish. The other two will receive an infringement notice for taking undersize fish,” he said.

“The undersized fish and their fishing equipment were seized.”

Mr Hannaford said Portland was a nursery ground for small snapper this time of year.

“Young snapper are vulnerable to being caught unintentionally. Care needs to be taken in the handling of these fish when caught to ensure they are released unharmed.

“Size limits apply to many fish species and we encourage anglers to refer to the new 2016 Victorian Fishing Guide, available free online or from most tackle stores.”

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected illegal activities to the 24 hour fisheries offence reporting line 13FISH (13 3474).