ANGLERS are reporting excellent catch rates for King George whiting between Indented Head and Queenscliff, but some people will be fronting court for allegedly being too greedy.
During a targeted patrol Fisheries Officers searched a vessel at St Leonards on Monday and allegedly found 14 King George whiting above the limit, hidden on board.
The daily bag and possession limit is 20 fish.
A Pascoe Vale South man is expected to be charged by summons to appear at the Geelong Magistrates’ Court at a date to be fixed. The fish, boat and fishing equipment were all seized.
Two weeks ago at the same spot, another boat search allegedly uncovered eight fish more than the limit, also hidden.
Regional Supervising Fisheries Officer, Paul Millar, said the fact the whiting had apparently been hidden indicated the alleged offenders knew what they were doing.
“Fisheries officers searched the vessel at St Leonards as we want the public to know we are frequently checking fishermen at the ramp which is used by a high volume of anglers,” Mr Millar said.
“There have been calls from concerned locals to the 24 hour reporting line, 13 FISH (13-3474), reporting angler activities where offending is suspected.
“It is good to see local anglers actively engaged in managing the fisheries by reporting others who flout the rules.
“Unfortunately there are also reports of multi-tripping, where an angler goes fishing on a number of occasions in a single day and catches the catch limit on each trip.
“Fishers considering concealing their catch need to be aware that they risk their boat being seized as a consequence.
”Intelligence received from 13-FISH (13 3474) allows Fisheries Officers to better plan their patrolling so call if you see or suspect any illegal fishing activity.”
