Fishers busted trying to smuggle squid at Wirrina Cove
Wednesday 23 April 2025 Fishing and aquaculture
Recent seizures of illegally caught squid by Fisheries Officers from PIRSA, is a reminder to fishers that they can face the possibility of significant fines, loss of fishing equipment and potential prosecution if caught flouting fishing rules and regulations.
On Good Friday, following a tip off over potential illegal fishing activity in the area, Fisheries Officers at Wirrina Cove intercepted two fishers at the boat ramp, seizing 124 Southern Calamari, well in excess of the 15 per person limit. Two cuttlefish were also part of the catch.
In addition to the confiscation of the catch, the boat and all fishing equipment used by the two fishers both from St Clair were also seized.
This latest incident follows on from another seizure at Wirrina Cove boat ramp two days prior on 15 April resulting from a covert operation with Fisheries officers seizing 101 Southern Calamari illegally caught by two fishermen, one from Hindmarsh Valley and the other from Queensland, along with the fishing equipment used to catch the squid.
All four will be summoned to face court at a later date and face a maximum penalty of $20,000 each for exceeding the personal daily bag limit. If convicted, they will also face the additional penalty of five times the commercial value of the squid.
All the squid seized from both seizures has been provided to the South Australian Research and Development (SARDI) Aquatic Sciences team to assist in the ongoing research into Southern Calamari in South Australia.
Acting General Manager Operations Support for PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture, Gary Darter said Fisheries Officers identifying such instances of non-compliance during a busy holiday period was a timely reminder for fishers to follow the rules.
“Fishing is a healthy, fun activity for the whole family. It’s great to get out and about and enjoy all our state has to offer, with pristine waterways and beautiful coastlines,” he said.
“However, fishing limits exist to protect the long-term health of our fish stocks in South Australia. No-one wants to face a fine, so it’s important you follow the rules.
“Over the long weekend, Fisheries Officers will again be making sure fishers are obeying all rules and regulations, to ensure stock levels aren’t heavily impacted.”
“For all species, South Australians need to make sure they are keeping within size and bag limits to ensure the fish stocks are sustainable, but it’s even more important with popular species like squid.”
Recreational fishers can check bag, boat and daily limits at: pir.sa.gov.au/recreational_fishing.
Fishing limit information is also available via the SA Recreational Fishing Guide app. Concerns should be reported to the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522.