Fishers found with a combined catch of more than six dozen undersized fish have been warned to learn the rules or face fines.
During an operation in Devonport this week, authorities discovered 12 individuals fishing at Victoria Bridge who had collectively caught 74 undersized mullet.
Mullet have a minimum legal size of 25cm, with a bag limit of 15 and a total possession limit of 30.
Tasmania Police Inspector Anthea Maingay emphasised the importance of fishers measuring their catch as soon as it is out of the water.
“People must check their catch for size to avoid depleting our fisheries,” she said.
“When the catch was inspected … only 27 … were able to be returned to the water as the others weren’t viable.”
Taking undersized fish can result in a fine of $390, along with additional penalties that may amount to thousands of dollars.
“If the offending is severe, you can also have your catch and fishing equipment seized, even your boat.”
Authorities strongly recommend that all fishers download the ‘Fishing Tas App’ for up-to-date information on fishing regulations across the state.
