The factory trawler Geelong Star appeared off Bermagui on Thursday working inshore areas and causing a bit of storm on social media.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
One upset game fisherman posted a photo of his salute to the 95-metre trawler as it steamed past in the vicinity of the 12-Mile Reef.
The fishermen reported in his post that someone on the deck of the trawler gave the salute back.
Reports are that the mid-water trawler that targets small pelagic species such as jack mackerel was working inside the Continental Shelf at night and then moving offshore during the day.
Comments on social media by fishermen voice concern about the impact of the vessel on the schools of bait currently attracting lots of marlin.
The marlin fishing off Bermagui and Narooma has been red hot with boats tagging up to 10 fish a day.
The vessel has also been halted by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority for killing marine mammals and most recently albatrosses.
There are also however comments on social media from commercial fishermen defending the rights of the vessel to fish in local waters.
The Geelong Star is operated by Tasmanian company Seafish Tasmania, with the catch reportedly being exported to locations including Africa for human consumption.
Fairfax Media this week sought the comments of local Federal Member Peter Hendy on the trawler. Read here