Big fine over size of mud crabs in catch a warning to rogue fishers

A fisherman busted with a bucket of undersized mud crabs has been fined a whopping $7000 over the haul. FILE PIC

A FISHERMAN busted with a bucket of undersized mud crabs has been fined a whopping $7000 over the haul.

Fisheries officers spotted the man while on a routine patrol of the Caboolture River last year.

Undersized mud crabs seized by the NT Water Police, during a routine check. File Picture: NT Police

A search of his catch uncovered 11 undersized male mud crabs and eight females – which are protected in Queensland.

“We cannot stress enough that crabbers have a responsibility to ensure they understand and are up-to-date with Queensland’s fishing rules,” Fisheries Minister Mark Furner said.

“Fishing rules exist to protect resources so we can leave a legacy of a sustainable fishery for our children and grandchildren.

“Ignorance is no excuse and, in this instance, not knowing the rules has ended in a very costly day out.”

Fisherman Mark Rodgers with a top quality, legal-size muddie from the Gold Coast Broadwater.

The man appeared in the Caboolture Magistrates Court where he also pleaded guilty to failing to mark his crab pots.

He was fined $7095.

Anyone who suspects illegal fishing activity can report it to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.