The Ministry of Fisheries is reminding the public that selling, bartering or trading recreational catch is illegal. Recreational fishers who are caught selling, bartering or trading their catch are at risk of having their assets seized (such as their car, boat or trailer) and receiving a fine of up to $250,000 or even imprisonment.

“We do know that some people are looking at ways to save and make extra dollars” says Andrew Coleman, MFish National Manager of Fisheries Compliance

“Selling, bartering or trading items is fine, as long as it’s legal. To do so with recreationally landed fish is illegal and you will face hefty penalties if caught,” he says.

It is illegal to barter seafood as bartering is specifically included within a wide definition of ‘sale’ contained within the Fisheries Act 1999. This prohibition covers all marine fish and shellfish and some fresh water fish including the likes of eels and koura. The only exception is whitebait, which can be sold.

Read more on the Ministry of Fisheries website.

Filed under: Ali Perkins, Diving New Zealand, News/Current Affairs