MFish remind fishers of code of practice for set netting

2 February 2009

Fishery officers are reminding fishers in the Coromandel that they need to follow codes of practice when setting nets. Fishery officers have noticed a number of fishers showing scant regard for both the sustainability of our fishery and for other fishers by setting nets poorly, leaving nets set for too long or using unmarked floats amongst other violations of the code of practice for set nets.

“It is really disappointing when we come across fishers taking so little care when they set their nets” said Ian Bright District Compliance Manager Ministry of Fisheries, “It is also causing a lot of frustration amongst other fishers who adhere to good practice, but who have to suffer the consequences of the actions of a few bad apples”

“Setting nets so that the fish they catch are left out of the water at low tide is illegal. The fish quickly spoil in the sun and can’t be eaten which is a waste of our valuable resource” he said.

The code of practice for set netting is available for free by visiting here or by calling your local Mfish office. If fishers notice set netting that is not in adherence of the codes of practice they are asked to contact their local Mfish office.

“We would ask the public that if they notice any set net that doesn’t adhere to the code of practice to please call your local MFish office. We need the public’s help to ensure that future generations can enjoy our wonderful marine resource too” he said.