Karratha fisher charged with breach of demersal fillet limit

A Karratha man will face court in the new year for exceeding the demersal fish possession limit, after 18 kilograms of demersal fish fillets were intercepted by Fisheries officers at a roadside checkpoint in Dongara last week, the Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said on Monday, December 23.

The fillets were discovered during a vehicle inspection at a checkpoint jointly run by WA Police and Fisheries officers on Brand Highway and were found to be exceeding the legal possession limit by eight kilograms. The excess fillets were seized for evidence.

The checkpoint saw 380 vehicles searched over four hours on Friday, with almost all of the 587 people engaged by officers complying with WA’s fishing regulations.

Another male was found to have two western rock lobsters more than the possession limit of 24 and for this breach, he was issued an official warning. The two lobsters were seized.

At the second checkpoint set up on George Street in Port Denison, a further 17 vehicles were searched and 29 people checked; none of whom were in breach of fisheries laws.

Special operations like roadside checks are carried out around Western Australia each year and remain a key part of DPIRD’s strategy to monitor compliance with the state’s fishing regulations.

Jack Dawson, Supervising Fisheries and Marine Officer from Geraldton, said the Fisheries and Police officers felt there was great value in conducting the roadside checks.

"The majority of people we spoke to were supportive of our efforts to raise awareness and ensure people are following the rules to help protect our fish stocks," Mr Dawson said.

"Collaborative operations like this help raise awareness and ensure people are following the rules, which in turn helps in the ongoing management of WA’s fisheries resources."

Anyone who suspects any kind of illegal fishing activity is urged to report their concerns to Fishwatch on 1800 815 507 or Crimestoppers via online form.

To check on fishing rules by species and/or location in WA go to the Western Australian recreational fishing rules or the Recreational fishing guide 2023.

Bag, size and possession limits are also explained on the Fisheries website.