Five Auckland fishers have been caught with more than 45 times the daily snapper limit and will likely face prosecution.
Two Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) fishery officers were conducting boat inspections last Thursday at the Halfmoon Bay boat ramp in East Auckland.
The officers inspected a group of five recreational fishers and upon inspection, the officers discovered a massive amount of fish on board.
MPI's West North Island regional manager fish compliance Andre Espinoza said the officers soon found the group had 348 fish, 317 of which were snapper.
"With a total weight of just under 200kg. Ninety-five of the Snapper they had were undersize."
Espinoza added the group will likely face prosecution under the Fisheries Act and in the meantime, their vessel has been seized.
"The rules are there for a reason and when we find evidence of deliberate rule-breaking, you can be assured we will take action."
MPI asks if you become aware of any suspicious fishing activity, call them on 0800 47 62 24 or email ncc@mpi.govt.nz
