Northern Territory Police wish to remind all people that fish NT waters that knowledge of bag limits is their responsibility.

Two fishermen were found to have well over the maximum allowed number of fish for general possession when their catch was checked on the Barkly Highway.

Water Police Acting Senior Sergeant John Pini said the couple were issued a notice to appear after they were found with 47 fish – 17 over the general possession limit for two people. They were also over the limit for golden snapper.

“In their vehicle and caravan, the couple had frozen fish which had been caught at King Ash Bay in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“If convicted, their freezer equipment, fish, and other associated gear will be forfeited.”

Acting Senior Sergeant Pini said anyone who fishes regularly on Territory waterways should download the ‘NT Fishing Mate’ App.

The phone and tablet application includes information on 30 fish species and their possession limits, notifications of restrictions around management areas, maps, images and links, as well as other useful information.

Anything used in a fisheries offence can be seized and is forfeited upon conviction. This can include vehicles or vessels.

Police are responsible for fisheries enforcement, and conduct land and highway based patrols as well as patrols on the water to ensure people are complying with the Fisheries Act and Regulations.

“Good management of fish stocks in the NT relies on the enforcement of possession limits and other rules so a great fishing experience can be enjoyed by generations to come,” Acting Senior Sergeant Pini said.