NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is encouraging all NSW fishers and interstate visitors to fish responsibly over the Easter long weekend.
NSW DPI Fisheries Director of Compliance, Patrick Tully, said just because this is one of the busiest weekends of the year, anglers should not be complacent.
“We know the Easter long weekend is one of the best times for family and friends of all ages to get together and wet a line,” Mr Tully said.
“Even though it may be busy out on the water, it’s important to remember that the same rules and regulations still apply and there are strict penalties for those that don’t adhere to the rules.”
Mr Tully said some lucky fishers will be rewarded for their responsible fishing behaviour this weekend with Fisheries Officers set to give away some limited edition 80mm bibbed Predatek lures that feature the Fishers Watch phone number and the website.
“We’re doing this to boost awareness of our Fishers Watch hotline and website, while also rewarding some lucky anglers who may never have been acknowledged before for the important role they play in preserving our fisheries resources for future generations.
“Not only does the community play a major role in protecting our valuable fish stocks by fishing responsibly, their reporting of illegal or suspicious activity – especially in remote areas – is often crucial in helping us apprehend offenders.
“So this weekend if you see something out of the ordinary or something that just doesn’t look right, especially in remote areas of western NSW, report it.”
People may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,250 for providing information about illegal abalone fishing if the information provided to Fishers Watch leads to a conviction.
The Fishers Watch phone line can be reached on 1800 536
