Gulf operation nets undersized catches

By ANNE BESTON

Fisheries staff were out in force again yesterday in one of the biggest operations launched against illegal fishing in the Hauraki Gulf.

The Ministry of Fisheries has had seven vessels patrolling the gulf - one of the most popular recreational fishing areas in the country - and around 40 staff, both on the water and at boat ramps, checking for illegal catches.

Fishers have been found with undersized snapper, excess and undersized scallops and undersized lobsters.

Fishery officer Craig Richardson said that despite plenty of warning that the ministry would target the gulf this Labour Weekend, there was a hardened group who just didn't get the message.

"They will be dealt with by the ministry in due course. Most will probably be prosecuted by way of infringement notices."

Officers had been handing out pamphlets and posters and offering stick-on measuring rulers for those who wanted them.

The operation covered the Hauraki Gulf from Kawau Island in the north to the Coromandel Peninsula in the east and Orere Point to the south.