Kiwithrottlejockey
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« Reply #25 on: April 03, 2009, 03:02:30 pm » |
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DOC keeps close eye on bait huntersThe Marlborough Express | Friday, 21 September 2007Department of Conservation staff are patrolling popular whitebaiting haunts to ensure those chasing the "white gold" are doing so legally.
Community relations officer Colin Davis said staff were checking that people were not starting fishing before 5am or leaving nets unattended.
He has been out at 3am some days to have a look around and is so far pleased with the behaviour of the whitebaiters he has met.
Department staff have the power to seize nets and gear of whitebaiters breaking the regulations, and to fine them up to $5000.
Mr Davis warned those operating outside of the regulations not to expect to get off with a warning.
He said whitebaiters he had been talking to were reporting a slow start to the season.
Whitebaiter Bruce Nicholas was the only person braving grey conditions at Wairau Bar yesterday. He takes time off work for the season.
"This place is out of this world," he said. "The enjoyment on the beach, and if you catch anything that's a bonus."http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlboroughexpress/4209968a6563.html
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