Dr Andrew Read said the fishers will be fined after they travelled in three vessels and fished at the Cod Grounds Marine Park, nine kilometres off the coast of Laurieton.

The fishers were caught on Sunday, February 17. 

Dr Read said fines for recreational fishing in national park zones can be issued for between $500 up to $10,500, which makes for an expensive weekend.

The Cod Grounds Marine Park is one of 58 Australian Marine Parks managed by Parks Australia to protect Australia’s offshore marine environment.

Dr Read said the park protects some incredible habitats and species and has very high biodiversity.

He said one of the species which is protected at the park is the critically endangered grey nurse shark.

Dr Read said recreational fishers who carry out illegal fishing at the location are taking the shark's prey away from them and this could have implications on their survival. 

Dr Read acknowledged that majority of recreational fishers do the right thing by leaving the park alone, and it was disappointing that some local community members had chosen not to be stewards in supporting its vital role. 

As a result of the incident Dr Read said surveillance at the area will increase over time, using advanced technology. 

He recognised the efforts of NSW Department of Primary Industries, which routinely patrols the waters. He said aerial surveillance is also carried out. 

In the future, Mr Read said that unmanned aerial surveillance would be implemented. 

"If you are carrying out an illegal activity in an Australian marine park, you will be caught,” he said. 

Australian Marine Park rules are at signposted local boat ramps, including those neighbouring the Cod Grounds Marine Park.

Dr Read is urging the wider community to report any illegal activity. To report an incident please call 1800 043 536.