The man was observed collecting ark shells at King Bay on the Burrup Peninsula in April earlier this year.
Fisheries officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) inspected his catch which revealed 12 litres of ark shells, a marine mollusc. The daily bag limit is two litres.
DPIRD Supervising Fisheries and Marine Officer at Karratha Michael Dunne said the ark shell population around Karratha had been decimated by Cyclone Damien in February 2020.
“While stocks have been recovering, overfishing is an ongoing problem,” Mr Dunne said.
“The department has increased its fisheries compliance patrols in the area to target illegal activity, and multiple infringements have been issued in the same location.”
Anyone who suspects illegal fishing activity should call FishWatch on 1800 815 507 or report the matter via the online form on Crimestoppers.
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