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Recreational fishers reminded of rock lobster pot rules

Wednesday 18 November, 2009

South Australian recreational fishers have been reminded of the rules that apply when using rock lobster pots.

PIRSA Fisheries issued the reminder this week after a number of recreational fishers were fined for operating pots not registered to them.

PIRSA Fisheries Acting Regional Manager Limestone Coast, Hamish Telfer said that while the recreational Southern Zone Rock Lobster season had only opened at the beginning of October, officers had already issued 11 expiation notices.

“Last season Fisheries Officers removed more than 52 unregistered devices, a record number, and detected numerous fishers operating more than two rock lobster pots,” he said.

“We don’t want to see this happen again this season, which is why it’s important we remind recreational fishers that rock lobster pots are owner operated devices and that there are strict rules that you must abide by.

“Any person found setting or retrieving a rock lobster pot not registered to them faces on the spot fines or prosecution.”

At a glance, the rules for rock lobster pots are:
• A person may only operate a maximum of two rock lobster pots
• Pots must have a current PIRSA issued registration tag attached
• A red float must be attached to the pot 
• Floats must not display any commercial fishery numbers
• A person can not operate a pot not registered in their name.

Anyone can report illegal fishing activity through the 24 hour FISHWATCH number on 1800 065 522.  Callers can choose to remain anonymous.