A man and a woman have been fined $4,500 for exceeding the bag limit of Southern Calamari on the Yorke Peninsula.
Scott and Kathy Feutrill were detected by Fisheries Officers at the Rogues Point boat ramp with 83 Southern Calamari – far exceeding the 15 squid per person daily bag limit. The total catch weighed more than 35 kilograms.
The pair appeared in the Kadina Magistrates Court last month (29 July 2019) and pleaded guilty to the offence. Along with their conviction, both defendants were fined $2,250 each and their fishing gear forfeited.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone reminded fishers if they break the law they will be caught.
“The significant fines and seizure of fishing gear from this case should send a very strong message to those who are tempted to break the rules,” said Minister Whetstone.
“The majority of recreational fishers do the right thing, they respect the fish stocks and the fishing limits. However, poachers taking more than their fair share will be caught.
“The bag and size limits are in place to ensure our popular fish species to continue to thrive.
“Thank you to the members of the public who used Fishwatch to report poachers operating in the area.
“If fishers suspect someone isn’t doing the right thing I urge them to anonymously call Fishwatch on 1800 065 522. Reports can also be made via the SA Recreational Fishing Guide app.”
