Two men have had their gear seized after being caught illegally whitebaiting in Southland last night.

Western Southland Police and the Department of Conservation (DOC) were running Operation Īnaka, targeting whitebaiters fishing outside of the legal season.

Police carried out their third enforcement operation at the Waiau River mouth on Thursday night.

“Whitebaiting season ended on October 31, so it is disappointing that we located two men illegally fishing,” Western Southland Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Graham said.

Their nets, waders and other equipment were seized. DOC will now consider whether to prosecute.

“I encourage all whitebaiters to familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations around fishing activity, in order to avoid any confusion,” Senior Sergeant Graham said.

Police are asking the public to report illegal or suspicious activity. Call 111 if it is happening now, or 105 after the fact. Anonymous reports can be made to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

More information is available on the Department of Conservation’s website.