Illegal marron fishing results in successful prosecution

A 52-year-old Jarrahdale man has been fined more than $9,000, including penalties, for taking 79 marron during the closed season for marron fishing. 

His apprehension in July 2021, caught illegally fishing for marron at Serpentine Dam, ultimately led to a DPIRD investigation which uncovered evidence he had illegally fished at two water catchment dams on five occasions dating back to September 2020. 

Water Corporation rangers came across the man while he was fishing inside the prohibited zone of the water catchment area at Serpentine Dam.

The rangers found him with six live marron in his cooler bag, which were seized and returned to the dam where no fishing is allowed at any time.

In Armadale Court this month, it was revealed DPIRD Compliance followed up on the case and uncovered evidence of four additional offences, where the man illegally fished twice at both Serpentine and Churchman Brook Dams.

Water Corporation Head of Treatment and Resource Recovery Rino Trolio said illegal fishing in drinking water catchments was a serious offence.

“When people undertake illegal fishing or other antisocial activities, such as littering, within our catchment areas it puts water quality at risk,” Mr Trolio said. 

"Our rangers work really hard to protect Perth’s drinking water sources, so it’s important the community do the right thing and understand penalties apply for those who don’t.” 

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Director of Regional Compliance Metro Todd A’Vard said fisheries compliance officers worked closely with Water Corporation rangers.

“The rangers looking after WA’s drinking water dams have legal status as Honorary Fisheries Officers, if they come across people fishing illegally,” Mr A’Vard said. 

“Sharing information and resources benefits both DPIRD and Water Corporation. 

“For DPIRD, out-of-season marron fishing is something our compliance officers close to Perth, as well as those in the South West and Southern regions, check regularly throughout the year.” 

Members of the public who suspect illegal fishing can also help by reporting what they see to FishWatch on 1800 815 507.