Yabby poachers feel the pinch of the law

Fisheries Officers have apprehended two men from Cohuna, Victoria, for multiple offences involving the take of yabbies from Colligen Creek, west of Deniliquin.

The men were caught in possession of 796 yabbies, which is a staggering 396 above the combined possession limit for two people. The excess yabbies were seized and returned to the waters of the Colligen Creek alive. In addition, it is also alleged the men used excess yabby nets and opera house traps to take their haul. Both men will receive $3,000 in penalty notices.

Fishers are reminded that the possession limit for yabbies is 200 per person. Fishers are also reminded that opera house style yabby traps are prohibited in all NSW waters. Fishers can use a total of five lift nets or pyramid nets per person to take yabbies. Each net is to be clearly labelled with the fisher’s first name initial, surname, year of birth and postcode. It is also an offence to be in possession of yabbies carrying ova. Yabbies carrying eggs must be returned to the water alive. These regulations have been designed to ensure that populations remain sustainable into the future.

Anyone with information regarding suspected illegal fishing activity should call the DPI Fishers Watch number on 1800 043 536 or report it online at www.dpi.nsw.gov. au/fishing/compliance. -