Sharks among the dead due to illegal fishing net

Sharks, including a threatened species, were among dozens of dead sea creatures reportedly washed up in Crab Creek near the Broome Bird Observatory recently after being caught in a big fishing net.

BBO chairwoman Andrea Spencer said a group of visitors spotted the net containing around 40 different species, mostly young sharks, in front of the boardwalk on April 9.

BBO alerted the Broome Shire, the Fisheries Department and the Department of Environment and Conservation.

DEC wildlife officer Peter Carstairs said the department had received a call about the net, but was unable to retrieve it due to the high tide. DEC received another call from BBO around 3pm after discovering the net, measuring 15-20m.

Ms Spencer said the incident was “disappointing” and highlighted that people were not aware of the impact of net fishing.

Mr Carstairs believed the net was recreational and reported finding five threadfin salmon, a queenfish, barramundi and nine shark species including a bull shark and a hammerhead — which is listed as a threatened species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature website.

The net was seized under the Wildlife and Conservation Act. According to the Department of Fisheries, recreational netting is prohibited in the Kimberley.

Mr Carstairs said it was “very disappointing” people were using nets illegally and risking native fauna, including turtles and dolphins which inhabit the area.

“From the fish point of view, it’s very disappointing because people are overfishing the area and using unlawful means to catch fish.”

Offenders face a fine of up to $5000 if they are prosecuted for fishing using recreational nets in a prohibited area. A Department of Fisheries spokesman said the matter was under investigation.