Two people have been charged with using a vessel without permission and numerous Fisheries and MAST offences after an operation involving land and water-based Police and the Police vessel Cape Wickham at the weekend.

About 11pm on Saturday night, Tasmania Police Marine & Rescue Services personnel and Kingston Division personnel apprehended the pair setting rock lobster pots and fishing in the Tinderbox Marine Reserve.

There have been a number of offences detected inside and outside Marine Reserves that have involved the illegal taking of fish including Southern Rock Lobster and Abalone. Fish stocks in some areas around the state have been heavily impacted due to some people’s blatant disregard for catch and size limits.

People need to be reminded that the state’s Marine Reserves have been set up to protect this industry into the future. Fishers must be licenced and be aware of where Marine Reserves are and what size and catch limits apply.

Tasmania Police would like to remind people that Fisheries and MAST legislation will be enforced and that the legislation is there both to protect people and the state’s fisheries.

Information can be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au