Abalone seizure in Eden

A joint operation between NSW Fisheries and NSW water police has resulted in more than 340 abalone being seized from the home of a 59-year-old Eden restaurateur.

The Director-General of NSW Fisheries, Steve Dunn, said the man was unable to produce any records of sale for the abalone.

"Investigations into the matter are continuing and the man could be prosecuted for possessing more than the legal limit of abalone," he said.

"The maximum penalty for this offence is an $11,000 fine and/or three months jail."

Mr Dunn said recreational fishers are allowed a daily bag limit of 10 abalone, and records of sale are required for anyone possessing more than 2kg of abalone meat or 200 grams of dried abalone meat.

"Only commercial fishers authorised under the abalone share management fishery are allowed to catch and sell abalone," he said.

"The illegal harvesting and sale of abalone threatens the long-term viability of this valuable fishery.

"This case serves as a warning that NSW Fisheries are constantly on the look-out for abalone offences, and offenders will be prosecuted in the courts."

Anyone with concerns about illegal fishing activities is urged to call their local NSW Fisheries office or the Fishers Watch number 1800 043 536.