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Not knowing crabbing rules results in $7000 fine at Caboolture

May 23, 2019

CRABBERS are urged to know Queensland’s crabbing rules after a man was fined more than $7000 for taking undersized crabs from the Caboolture River, north of Brisbane.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said in April 2018, Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers found the man with 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 crabbing rules,” he 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.”

The man also pleaded guilty in the Caboolture Magistrates’ Court to failing to mark his crab pots and was fined a total of $7095.80. Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said the case also highlighted the valuable work of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol.

“Officers were doing a routine patrol of the Uhlmann Boat ramp on the Caboolture River when their suspicions were first aroused,” Mr Ryan said said. “But the QBFP also relies greatly on the community’s support to provide relevant and timely information relating to potential offences concerning our valuable fishery resources. People who suspect illegal fishing activity should report it to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116. The registration details of the alleged offender’s car and or boat should be collected and reported to the Fishwatch hotline but don’t engage with the person, as this can compromise an investigation and possibly your safety.”

For more information on Queensland fishing rules and regulations, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au, call 13 25 23 or download the free Qld Fishing app from Apple and Google app stores. crabbing rules crabbing rules