North Coast man to face illegal eel trapping

[nsw_fisheries]

http://www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au/gen/...ay24_north.htm

"This document has been posted for information and to encourage discussion among yourselves. For more information from NSW Fisheries on the issue, please visit our web site on www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au"

[ba229]

North Coast man to face illegal eel trapping charges
24 May 2004
A Buladelah man will be prosecuted after he was caught illegally trapping eels in the Manning River, upstream from the township of Mount George, Director-General of NSW Fisheries, Steve Dunn, said today.

Mr Dunn said the 54-year-old man was caught with 37 eels and an eel trap at Callaghan’s Creek on private property, on Thursday 13 May. He did not have a current commercial licence allowing him to trap eels.

“Fisheries officers saw the man committing a number of offences involving the use of eel traps over several days,” he said.

“The use of such traps is banned in inland waters – they can only be used in farm dams in NSW with a permit.

“One of the most concerning issues for NSW Fisheries is that when illegally used in freshwater, eel traps can trap and drown air-breathing native wildlife such as platypuses, freshwater turtles and native water rats. These are all protected species.”

Mr Dunn said commercial fishers must be licensed to catch eels.

“Those with licences can legally trap them in coastal estuaries up to the limit of tidal waters - but they must obtain a special permit to operate in other areas,” said Mr Dunn.

Mr Dunn said unlicensed fishers are gaining access to waterways through private property.

“We are urging landowners to help NSW Fisheries control this illegal activity,” said Mr Dunn.

“Before giving permission to eel trappers, property owners should contact their local NSW Fisheries office to find out whether the person seeking permission is a current licence holder.”

Eel thieves can be fined up to $11 000 or a maximum of three-month’s imprisonment or both.

NSW Fisheries is also keen to hear from people with information about eel poaching activities – contact your local NSW Fisheries office or the Fishers Watch Hotline 1800 043 536.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: Kristina Resanceff on 8437 4948 or 0419 185 375.

[Scorchy]

I know of a guy in my local estuary trapping eels and exporting them to japan for $35 a kilo. Is this legal?