Set-nets concern

TANGLED MESS: A set-net containing dead fish washed up at Omaha Beach earlier this year. The incident was reported to the Fisheries Ministry.

Omaha Beach

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REPORTS of up to nine set-nets at one time being left overnight at Omaha Beach have some residents worried that illegal fishers may be operating in the area.

Fisheries representatives are investigating.

Chris Martin of Insite Security which covers Omaha, says he was informed of the large number of set-nets at the beach during the weekend. He says multiple set-nets were also at the beach last summer.

Public pressure led to set-netting being banned at Arkles Bay more than two years ago.

The rules around fishing may seem complex to non-fishers and this makes it hard for observers to know if someone is breaking the law.

A set-net can be left overnight provided it is floating at all times and is never left high and dry, the Fisheries Ministry says. It can be 60 metres long but mustn't be stacked, having an anchor and floats to keep it in place. Floats must have the owner's initial and surname and must not be closer than 60 metres to any other net.

Only one net can be put out from a boat. But a vehicle turning up at a beach with six people and a net each is not illegal. However, the person with the net must be the owner of it rather than all the nets belonging to one person.

The net must be hauled out manually, not with a boat – although it can be set with a boat.

The net can't be baited.

There are mesh sizes for different fish with snapper not less than 100mm, kahawai and gray mullet not less than 90mm, and yellow-eyed mullet not less than 25mm.

People who are unsure should take a note of the vehicle's registration number, colour and make, where the net is set and the time, and call 0800-476-224 or 425-6333.

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