Marine Police have seized a commercial fishing vessel and charged three men with unlawful commercial Rock Lobster fishing at a significant cost to the fishery.

Police will allege the fishermen were misreporting catch, fishing inside marine reserves, retaining under size Rock Lobster and unlawfully selling Rock Lobster.

The complex and lengthy police investigation culminated this week with the charge of Trafficking in Fish under the Living Marine Resources Act 1995 laid against a:

• 29-year-old commercial Rock Lobster fisherman from Seven Mile Beach
• 26-year-old commercial Rock Lobster fisherman from Sandy Bay
• 52-year-old man from Acacia Hills

The three men were bailed to appear before the court in February.

Police also seized a 15-metre commercial fishing vessel. The vessel has been returned under stringent conditions.

Police wish to remind members of the public and businesses that with the Rock Lobster season about to commence, legally seafood can only be purchased from approved fishermen, wholesalers and retailers. Receipts must be obtained and in the case of purchased Rock Lobster tags must he attached to the fish. Serious fines and special penalties may apply.

Illegal fishing activity can be reported to Fishwatch on 0427 655 557.