ALMOST 100 undersized blue swimmer crabs have been returned to the water following a blitz on fishing rules.

PIRSA Fisheries officers fined a group of people three people $860 after they were allegedly found with the crabs at Thompson Beach, 70km north of Adelaide.

Aquaculture executive director Sean Sloan said fisheries officers inspected the catches of nearly 100 recreational fishers last weekend, to ensure they were compliant with size and bag limits.

“The results of the inspections by Fisheries Officers were disappointing to say the least,”

Mr Sloan said.

“Size and bag limits are in place to ensure the sustainability of popular species so

everyone who wants to enjoy a day out crabbing can have a fair day’s fishing, now and

in the future.

“Signs clearly display information about how to measure a crab to ensure it’s the

correct size, as well as details of bag and boat limits, so there’s no excuse for breaking

the rules.”

Mr Sloan said Fishcare volunteers also patrolled popular beaches to hand out information pamphlets and measuring gauges to fishers.

“Blue swimmer crabs have to measure 11cm across the carapace from the base of the largest spines before they can be taken.”

Fishers can take up to 20 blue swimmer crabs per day, or 60 per boat, when there or more people are on board.

“Females with external eggs are totally protected all year around and must be gently

returned to the water immediately if caught,” Mr Sloan said.

Fisheries officers also fined or cautioned 17 other people for breaking fishing rules on September 22 and September 26.

The maximum fine for taking undersized crabs, exceeding bag or boat limits, and taking protected species, such as females with eggs, is $20,000.

People should call the 24/7 Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522 if they see any suspicious or illegal fishing activity.