Illegal catch sales

Selling fish without a commercial fishing licence is illegal in South Australia.

As a recreational fisher, you must not:

• sell (or attempt to sell), barter, or exchange fish
• advertise or offer fish for sale, including on social media platforms (Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree)
• send, deliver, or consign fish for sale.

These rules apply to any part of your recreational fishing catch, including bait and shellfish.

Reasons not to sell fish

Selling recreationally caught fish impacts fish stocks and threatens the sustainability of our fisheries. It also undermines:

• the legitimate commercial fishing sector
• the livelihoods of licensed commercial operators
• our shared fisheries resource.

Illegal seafood networks negatively influence the availability and price of seafood for customers. These networks can pose a health risk to consumers.

Consequences

There are significant consequences to all involved in illegal take and selling. Both the fisher and buyer could face:

• heavy fines
• seizure of property associated with the offence
• potential jail terms.

For more information, read the Fisheries Management Act 2007.

Report illegal selling of fish

Report immediately to Fishwatch if you:

• are approached by a recreational fisher trying to sell their catch
• suspect a seafood business is sourcing its seafood illegally
• view any illegal catch sales activity.