A recent enforcement action in the Hinchinbrook region is serving as a reminder to fishers about the serious penalties associated with illegal fishing activities.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers in Ingham took possession of two illegal gillnets after they were located during a Queensland Police Service (QPS) operation relating to other matters. The discovery prompted a follow-up investigation by QBFP.
During a subsequent search of the fisher’s property, officers allegedly uncovered a further three illegal gillnets along with two sawfish rostrums, a regulated and protected species. In total, the fisher was found to be unlawfully in possession of five gillnets measuring approximately 200 metres in combined length, with mesh sizes ranging from 50mm to 190mm.
The unlicensed fisher was issued fines totalling $8,345 for the offences, including possession of the illegal nets and the protected sawfish remains.
QBFP has thanked QPS for their assistance in identifying the illegal fishing gear and regulated fish during the initial operation.
Authorities are reminding the community that illegal fishing poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and protected species, and that compliance with fisheries regulations is essential to maintaining healthy waterways across North Queensland.
Members of the public can report suspected illegal fishing online at any time and remain completely anonymous via www.qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/reporting.
An unlicensed fisher was hit with fines totalling $8,345. Photosource: Fisheries Queensland
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
.JPG)
