MTPA issues warning on illegal fishing

Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) is warning people to stop fishing illegally at dams and rivers.

According to Mr Johan Coetser from the MPTA, 16 people were arrested on 11 December at Chrissiesmeer Lake for trespassing and allegedly catching fish illegally.

Six men appeared on 12 December in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court where they were granted bail. The case has been postponed to 11 January 2018.

Four women were fined R500 each and seven underage children were given official warnings by the Chrissiesmeer Police.

“It is illegal to fish with weapons such as spears, nets or any handmade weapons,” he said.

The MTPA also warned people not to fish during spawning season, where fish are breeding in the shallow, grassy areas of dams and rivers.

“You are only allowed to fish if you have a fishing permit and permission from the owner of the dam.”

In terms of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act, Act 10 of 1998 any person from the age of 16 are required to have a fishing license present when fishing in
provincial, municipal and public dams or rivers.

The cost of a fishing license in Mpumalanga is R20. All the rules and regulations are stipulated at the back of the license in terms of fish species, sizes and the
number of fish you are allowed to catch.

Anglers are allowed only two fishing rods if they have fishing permits.

Mr Coetser is adamant if you are found fishing without a permit, with illegal weapons or trespassing, the trespasser will be fined or arrested.

A trespasser can be fined up to R2 000 or a maximum sentence of two years.

Mr Coetser urged all anglers to have fishing permits and ensure they are aware of the rules and regulations of fishing.