Two Charged Over Illegal Netting

[Ken A]

Two men will be summoned to appear in court on a number of charges relating to illegal netting in the Darling River near Menindee.

The men, both 52, were apprehended by Department of Primary Industries Fisheries officers.

They were allegedly using eight gill nets.

“This is a serious illegal activity, and if proved, these men face a total of $112,000 in fines and or six months in jail or both,” said the DPI Fisheries manager for prosecutions, Max Withnell.

“As well as facing charges the men had their boat and nets seized.”

The two face charges of: exceeding the daily bag limit; possessing silver perch, a protected fish; unlawfully using a net; failure to pay a fishing fee and illegally taking fish.

The men will appear in Broken Hill Local Court at a date to be fixed.

“These are serious offences and threaten the sustainability of native species in our inland waterways.” Mr WIthnell said.

“People fishing in inland waters should acquaint themselves with the rules before setting out to ensure they have the proper gear and avoid facing severe penalties.”

Mr Withnell said DPI Fisheries officers would be active along inland waterways to provide guidance for anglers over the Easter break.

“Anglers should make sure their licence is up to date,” Mr Withnell said.

“Licences can be obtained at most tackle shops and many convenience stores throughout the State, or by using the Fisheries web site www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au or by calling 1300 369 365.

[knapers]

Thats just sick.

[Grantm]

Good work Fisheries, hope they go to jail.