The man who was fined earlier this week for fishing more than five kilos of octopus in El Reducto caught specimens "well below the allowed size and using a prohibited technique." As confirmed by Civil Guard sources to La Voz, he used a gaff or spear, a metal object with hooks and a point that is used to capture crustaceans and other marine animals.
Also, for "several weeks" the agents of the Benemérita have been receiving calls denouncing the fishing of octopuses in this area. In addition, the Armed Institute has highlighted that he was fishing in an area not allowed for underwater fishing and in the vicinity of a black spot of sewage spills.
The agents proceeded to seize the animals for having been caught irregularly and for "the risk they pose to public health." The work of the Seprona agents, in charge of ensuring the environment, has allowed to act against the affection that illegal fishing supposes for the seabed of Lanzarote.
Law 17/2003, of April 10, on Fishing in the Canary Islands, grades the sanctions that illegal fishermen in inland waters may face, including the use of marine cages or those who shellfish. Thus, the infractions range from 60 euros to 300 in minor cases, from 301 to 60,000 euros in serious cases and from 60,001 euros to 300,000 in very serious cases.
