A Melbourne man was allegedly found last week with more than ten times the daily pipi catch limit at Venus Bay Number One Beach.
Fisheries Officers from the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) allegedly found the man in possession of 21 litres of pipis, 19 litres more than the daily catch limit of two litres.
DEPI Gippsland’s Fisheries Program Manager Chris Angwin said the 19 litres of pipis were seized and returned to the water.
“This is a timely reminder that Fisheries Officers will maintain a strong presence at Venus Bay throughout the summer period, and that persons found offending will be dealt with accordingly,” Mr Angwin said.
The daily catch limit for pipis within the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park between Point Smyth and Arch Rock, including Venus Bay, is two litres. People are reminded they are only permitted to use their hands and feet – no tools of any type are permitted for digging.
“This is an offence under Section 68A of the Fisheries Act 1995 which attracts a maximum penalty of more than $2500,” Mr Angwin said.
“A recreational fishing licence is also required to take pipis, unless exempt.”
Anybody who sees or suspects illegal fishing activity is urged to call the 24-hour fisheries offence reporting line 13 FISH (13 3474)
