Fishermen caught hook, line and snapper

About 3pm on Monday 26 October, Fishwatch received information that a group of men fishing at the Port Augusta Power Station had been seen leaving with a haul of snapper.

Fisheries officers from Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) notified police, who intercepted the vehicle on the Port Wakefield Highway, Inkerman. Fisheries officers attended the scene and allegedly located 40 snapper in the vehicle.

Since November 2019, snapper fishing closures have been in place in the West Coast, Spencer Gulf, Gulf St Vincent and Kangaroo Island fishing zones to support stock recovery and secure the long-term sustainability of the species. These restrictions remain in place until 30 June 2027.

The three men from the eastern suburbs, had the snapper and their fishing equipment seized.

Investigations by Fisheries are continuing and the men are expected to be charged with possessing snapper taken during a closure and will appear in court at a later date.

Police and PIRSA thank the member of the public who reported the illegal catch.

To help protect and maintain our fish stocks for the future, it is important that both commercial and recreational fishers comply with fishing rules and regulations. Anyone with information about illegal or suspicious fishing activity can contact the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.