Fisheries patrols to target Whyalla fishing competition
Thursday 29 March 2007
Fisheries Officers have issued a reminder to contestants in the Australian Amateur Snapper Fishing competition being held over Easter to make sure they comply with all on water regulations.
The annual competition is one of South Australia’s biggest fishing tournaments, attracting anglers from across the country to Whyalla, the nation’s unofficial snapper capital.
PIRSA Manager Compliance Services, Paul Tatarelli said there will be a joint operation involving Fisheries Officers, together with Officers from Dept Transport Energy and Infrastructure - Marine (Transport Safety Compliance Officers), South Australia Police (Water Operations Unit) and SAPOL Officers from Whyalla.
“There will be offshore patrols as well as ramp inspections,” Mr Tatarelli said.
“The main emphasis will be on anyone illegally fishing inside Cowleds Landing Aquatic Reserve, taking over the bag limit of snapper including 'high grading', not carrying the correct safety equipment and operating a vessel over the blood alcohol limit.
“Fishers competing should make themselves aware of the rules that apply to fishing and boating, particularly in the Whyalla area.
“In particular, fishers are advised to stay out of marked aquaculture areas especially in Fitzgerald Bay.
Also present at key times throughout the competition will be PIRSA Fisheries’ Fishcare Volunteers who will provide competitors with education material.
Any suspected illegal fishing activity should be reported to the 24 hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.
