THREE Melbourne men have been issued with fines of more than $1200 after taking undersized fish off the Portland breakwall last week.
Fisheries Victoria apprehended the men after their activities were reported by witnesses to the 13FISH 24-hour reporting line.
“The callers were able to provide very specific details and descriptions which greatly enhance our ability to respond and follow-up on any possible illegal behaviour,” fisheries officer Cameron McCallum said. “Three men were subsequently apprehended by the responding fisheries officer and will be issued with a total of $1266 in infringement notices for allegedly being in possession of undersize fish.”
Mr McCallum said Fisheries Victoria would continue to respond “strongly and swiftly” to breaches that were a threat to the sustainability of the state’s resources.
“Recreational anglers are reminder that such breaches of legislation can result in hefty fines, seizure of equipment and in some severe cases possible terms of imprisonment.”
He urged people to report fisheries offences to 13FISH (133474).