Boaters warned of $10,000 fines under new fishing rule from this week: 'Random checks'

Boaters in South Australia face potential $10,000 fines starting this week under a new recreational fishing rule for crayfish. From Thursday, anyone on a recreational vessel used for crayfishing in South Australian coastal waters must wear a Level 100 lifejacket or higher. The requirement extends beyond the person fishing: everyone on board must wear the higher-grade jacket when Southern Rock Lobster pots are being lifted, hauled, handled, or even simply carried. It applies to passengers of any age, regardless of swimming ability or boating experience, and covers motorboats, kayaks, canoes, surf skis and rowboats. Commercial vessels and inland-water boats are exempt. Marine Safety Officers will conduct inspections and random compliance checks, initially focusing on education. Maximum penalty for ignoring a safety direction without reasonable excuse is $10,000, following an inquest linked to eight deaths.