A32-year-old Mount Gambier man has been fined and banned from fishing after attempting to sell recreationally caught Southern Rock Lobster on Facebook.
The man received a fine of $3035.60 and was ordered to pay prosecution and other costs of $1958 after the matter was heard in court recently.
He was also banned from being in possession of rock lobster or rock lobster-related equipment, such as fishing gear, for three years.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions Fisheries Officers became aware of the illegal sales after the person posted pictures of five rock lobster for sale on social media in December 2021.
The individual’s house was searched and as a result 11 rock lobster were located, some of which did not have their middle tail fan clipped.
The rock lobster and several other items relating to the offending were seized by fisheries officers and later forfeited by the court.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions Fisheries and Aquaculture Operations Director Benn Gramola said authorities took the unlawful sale of rock lobster, and other fish, very seriously.
“We have an entire commercial fishing industry whose livelihood relies on being able to catch and sell fish, and they pay substantial fees to be able to do that,” he said.
“Anyone who fishes for Rock Lobster recreationally must be aware they are not legally allowed to sell their catch – this includes barter or trading.
“It is a requirement for all recreational fishers to cut the middle tail fan of any rock lobster they catch and intend to keep.
“The reason for this is to clearly distinguish recreationally caught rock lobster from commercially caught rock lobster, which can legally be sold.”
If you know of anyone who is illegally selling rock lobster contact Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.
Callers can speak to a Fisheries Officer and can choose to remain anonymous.
Alternatively, reports of illegal fishing activity can also be made through the SA Recreational Fishing Guide app.
Visit the PIRSA website www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing or download the SA Recreational Fishing Guide app at www.pir.sa.gov.au/safishingapp to learn more about fishing rules in South Australia and to keep up with the latest information.
