A commercial fisherman has been convicted for fishing without a licence following an appearance at Darwin Local Court on 27 November 2019.
Water Police inspected the man’s fishing operation at Fisherman’s Wharf on the morning of 17 March 2019. Following an investigation by Water Police, he was served with a Notice to Appear for fishing without a licence.
The man was fined $5000 plus $150 victims’ levy and ordered to pay restitution to the total value of his catch, $9,256.
Water Police work in partnership with NT Fisheries to ensure sustainability of fish stocks continues for generations to come, with all commercial effort being closely managed and regulated to avoid excessive impact on these shared resources.
Senior Constable 1st Class Wade Marshall said it is imperative that all commercial fishing operators are properly licensed prior to conducting any activity.
“Nearly all commercial fishing in the Northern Territory is now electronically monitored. There have been several successful prosecutions this year as a consequence of authorities monitoring vessels remotely and identifying suspicious behaviour.”
For access to fishing rules and information, download the NT Fishing Mate app. To keep up to date with the latest information on fishing in the NT, go to NT Fisheries Facebook page.
If you suspect illegal fishing activity may be occurring then you can assist keeping our fish stocks healthy by reporting the activity via the app or ringing the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 891 136.
