You have a good point. However, it must also recognised commercials have graded their catch to only land top value fish, dumping the rest.

If these guys are caught, then withdrawing their quota and confiscating their vessel would be a good example, then bring the punishment for amateur fishos into line with with the seriousness of their crime.

In all fairness over recent years the courts have been clamping down pretty hard on amateur fishing offences, especially regarding shellfish greed. The guy at the centre of this case may have no assets that can be seized and no financial backing that would enable a large fine to ever being paid. He admitted he took the excess fish so they could be sold. Sad but true.

Breaking the rules of fishing seems to be working hand in glove with those who now chose to go rustling. In Hawke's Bay there have been many incidents over recent months where sheep (especially) have been stolen for easy money.

I make no excuses for people who undertake such activities. However, no jobs, very little money and a hungry family tends to encourage the worst from people. The queues at food banks seem to be getting longer ... again sad but true.