Capture of sea-trout by illegal means in the Western Fisheries Region: Some Observations for Discussion

Abstract

Circumstances concerning the possible illegal exploitation of sea trout in two western fishery districts in which the fish are an important component of the salmonid catch are reviewed. Legal methods of capture in the districts are described. The illegal fishery consists largely of nets fixed close inshore. The meshings available are described in terms of colour, size, thread width and materials. The meshes belong to one of two size groups. The larger of these is suitable for salmon and only trout of more than four sea winters are likely to be caught in them; these fish are relatively rare on the western seaboard. The group of smaller meshes would be effective in the capture of sea trout and fish of one sea winter would be particularly susceptible. Unfortunately the mesh marks inflicted by such nets would be similar to those made by a draft net, used legally. The greater part of the illegal salmonid fishery is apparently directed at salmon.