NSW fisheries will prosecute a Corowa man, 22, after he was nabbed using four fish traps to catch Murray crayfish.
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He was using the traps in the Murray River downstream from Yarra- wonga.
The Department of Primary Industries ran a four-day compliance operation over the long weekend this month.
It was code named Operation Kilo 15 with 385 anglers checked and a compliance rate of 87 per cent.
The Corowa man was one of those detected breaking fishing regulations. He will now have to appear in court.
DPI’s supervising fisheries officer Peter Tilbrook said the operation had been concentrated on the Murray, Edward, Murrumbidgee and Darling rivers.
“A total of 28 penalty notices and 29 written cautions were issued with the penalty notices ranging from $100 to $500,” Mr Tilbrook said.
“The Corowa man will be issued a court attendance notice for using illegal fish traps.
“He is liable to a maximum penalty of $22,000 or imprisonment for six months, or both, for a first offence.”
Mr Tilbrook said water levels were low, resulting in limited catches.
Officers seized four fish traps, 25 Murray crayfish — which were either of prohibited size or were carrying eggs — one trout cod, one opera house yabby trap, three fishing rods and five set lines.
“The poor compliance level within the Murray crayfish fishery was disappointing,” he said.
“We will continue increased patrols in the south west of the state for the duration of the season.
“It is important that fishers continue to follow the rules and regulations regarding Murray crayfish due to the decline in this iconic native threatened species.”
Anyone with information on illegal activity is encouraged to contact their local fisheries office or call the Fisher’s Watch phone line on 1800 043 536.
