The matter was heard in Busselton Court last week and involved offences at Moses Rock Beach near Wilyabrup, dating back to 29 October last year.
Fisheries and Marine Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) questioned the man after he had collected 20 Roe’s abalone during the Southern Zone recreational abalone fishing season.
The man was found to have provided another person’s recreational fishing licence claiming it was his own and, in doing so, provided a false name, date of birth and address.
In the absence of a valid abalone fishing licence, the 20 Roe’s abalone in his possession were seized.
The offender did not appear in court but had entered endorsed guilty pleas.
He was fined $2,500 for providing false details and ordered to pay costs totalling $272.70 and fined a further $800 for not holding a valid abalone fishing licence.
DPIRD Director Regional Compliance South Noel Chambers said Fisheries and Marine Officers were well trained to determine if offenders provided false information and focussed on ensuring fishers were licenced.
“The WA community expects our fishery resources are managed sustainably and that our compliance officers will act quickly and effectively to deal with illegal fishing activity,” Mr Chambers said.
“Attempting to provide misleading and false details is a costly and counter-productive decision. Licensing is an important aspect of fisheries management.
“There are three easy methods to apply for a recreational fishing licence, online via DoTDirect, in person at select DPIRD offices or via mail.”
For information on how to apply for or renew a recreational fishing licence, see Recreational fishing licences.
