By Mitchell Clarke
An illegal fishing operation in Pakenham has been uncovered by the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA).
An anonymous tip off to the independent statutory authority alerted Fisheries Officers to the illegal use of opera house nets at the Cook Springs Reserve on 8 May.
Officers from the Cowes station patrolled the area off Windermere Boulevard and undertook surveillance for several hours, however no fishers were observed.
As a result of the investigation, a total of 16 baited opera house nets were removed and taken away to be destroyed.
VFA enforcement and education director Ian Parks said anyone found to be in possession of the nets could face serious fines.
“Had we caught someone with 16 opera nets they would be charged with ‘possessing commercial fishing equipment without authorisation’ and would likely face court over the matter,” Mr Parks said.
“Maximum penalties could include fines of several thousands of dollars.”
Most commonly used to catch yabbies, the State Government banned the use of opera house nets in all public and private waters throughout Victoria from 1 July 2019.
“Opera house nets are a trap and can kill air-breathing native mammals like water rats and platypus,” Mr Parks explained.
“That’s why they’re no longer allowed in public or private waterways.”
The nets were replaced with open top lift nets, which can be used in both public and private waters.
“Open top lift nets are a better option because they enable animals to escape to the surface whilst still being very effective at catching yabbies when fished actively,” he added.
According to the VFA, opera nets can still legally be used in other states, and that local fishers may possess them to use when travelling and fishing interstate waters.
It’s understood that since the ban was put in place, reports of aquatic wildlife deaths have dropped dramatically.
If people see suspected illegal fishing in Victoria, they should 13FISH (133474) at any time. Callers can remain anonymous.
