Eel nets seized from farm dams

27 August 2015

An investigation by Fisheries Officers has found numerous commercial eel nets known as fyke nets used to harvest short finned eels, allegedly illegally set in farm dams near Ballarat.  

Senior Fisheries Officer at Ballarat Stephen Eddy said nine commercial eel nets containing large eels and yabbies have been seized as a result of the investigation.

"A man has this week been interviewed in relation to allegedly fishing for eels commercially without being the holder of a commercial fishing licence.

"Illegal fishing has the potential to threaten the legitimate commercial eel industry that operates across Victoria," he said.

Mr Eddy said eels captured by licenced Victorian commercial fishermen are sold to both domestic and overseas markets.

"It's an offence for any person to use or be in possession of commercial fishing equipment including fyke nets without being the holder of a commercial fishing licence.

He also said that commercial fishing equipment in the wrong hands and not professionally operated can be destructive to other species.

Farmers and the general public are encouraged to call 13FISH if they suspect illegal fishing practices.