TWO men could face prosecution after they were allegedly found with 259 undersized marron, out of season, at Harvey Dam.
The men were found as part of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) Operation Shadowedge aimed at cracking down on out-of-season marron fishing.
All the marron were returned alive to the water.
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READ NOWInvestigations are continuing into the two men from Perth’s northern suburbs who face potential prosecution and, if guilty, significant fines.
If the maximum general penalties were applied, along with mandatory additional penalties, each of the alleged offenders could potentially face fines up to $43,850.
Operation Shadowedge has been underway for several months and uses sophisticated surveillance methods and increased fisheries officer presence in our State’s south west.
The recreational marron fishing season runs annually in Western Australia from noon on January 8 until noon on February 5, 2020. Fishers require a valid licence.
More information is available in the latest ‘Marron recreational fishing guide’, which is available online at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/
“This is a timely reminder for anyone that WA closely monitors its freshwater and marine fish resources, to ensure sustainable and enjoyable fishing opportunities for all,” Fisheries minister Peter Tinley said.
“The officers involved in last night’s bust made a significant contribution by catching the alleged offenders and also by ensuring the marron could be returned to the water.
“I urge recreational fishers to make use of the FishWatch reporting line on 1800 815 507 to report any suspected illegal fishing activity.
“When the community provides the eyes and ears that help protect our fisheries, we all benefit.”