A tip off from a recreational angler has led to a 42-year-old man’s fishing gear, boat and truck being seized by NT Water Police after he was caught allegedly running an unlicensed commercial fishing operation.

The Officer in Charge of Water Police, Acting Senior Sergeant Jamie O’Brien, said the Humpty Doo man was found with more than 44 Black Jewfish onboard his vessel.

“A concerned fisherman provided timely information to Water Police about the man’s fishing activities at the Peron Islands,” Acting Senior Sergeant O’Brien said.

“Water Police members travelled to Dundee Beach and allegedly located the man as he was retrieving his boat.

“Police allege they found 44 large, headed and gutted Black Jewfish on ice on the boat, and allege the man intended to sell them in Darwin.

“The protection of the Territory’s fish stock is important for the health of our current and future recreational and commercial fishing.

“NT Water Police commend the member of the public for his tip-off, and encourage anyone with similar information to contact us.

“The man will be summonsed on the charge of ‘take any fish or aquatic life without a licence’ and his fishing equipment, boat and truck have been seized.”

Media Contact Gina Wilson 8985 8837