Six people have been caught illegally fishing in Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s West Coast, including one who was fined $1,755.
Constable Wayne Bradford from Strahan Marine Police said the offenders were detected during covert and high visibility patrols around the harbour this weekend.
“It’s worth remembering that police are on patrol, even in remote locations like Macquarie Harbour,” he said.
“The smallest fines for recreational net offences start at $585 and increase rapidly.”
Bradford said the successful operation demonstrates their commitment to enforcing marine fisheries laws and ensuring minimal impact on the harbour.
“We put a lot of time and effort into this to protect the marine environment and the fishing resources within it,” he said.
Police say information about marine safety and equipment requirements can be found at www.mast.tas.gov.au, while fishing rules and information are available at www.fishing.tas.gov.au and through the Fishing Tas App.
