Fisheries officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) earlier this month intercepted two fishers at the Black Point boat ramp, seizing 157 Southern Calamari - well in excess of the 15 per person limit.

The discovery has prompted a reminder to all fishers that they can face the possibility of significant fines, loss of fishing equipment and potential prosecution if caught flouting fishing rules and regulations.

In addition to the confiscation of the catch of Southern Calamari, the boat and all fishing equipment used by the two fishers from Adelaide were also seized.

This latest incident of non-compliance to the rules and regulations follows from a series of seizures at Wirrina Cove last month, with a total of 225 illegally caught squid seized (pictured below).

While investigations continue into all incidents, the two fishers caught at Black Point along with those at Wirrina Cove, will be summoned to face court later along with facing a maximum penalty of $20,000 each for exceeding the personal daily bag limit.

If convicted, they will also face the additional penalty of being five times over the commercial value of the squid.

All squid seized from these operations have been provided to the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) to assist in the ongoing research into Southern Calamari in South Australia.

Acting Director Operations for PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture, Matt Read said the recent spate of fishers being caught doing the wrong thing is a timely reminder on the importance of not only following but to be aware of the various fishing rules and regulations.

"For all species, South Australians need to make sure they are keeping within size and bag limits to ensure the fish stocks are sustainable, and it’s even more important with popular species like squid," he said.

"Fishing limits are there for a reason. To protect the long-term health of our local fish stocks so that we can all continue to enjoy this fun and healthy activity for generations to come.

"Fishing is a fun and healthy activity and let’s face it no-one wants to face a fine, so it’s important to follow the rules as if you do the wrong thing, you will get caught."

Recreational fishers can check bag, boat and daily limits at: pir.sa.gov.au/recreational_fishing.

Fishing limit information is also available via the SA Recreational Fishing Guide app. Concerns should be reported to the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522