A FISHERMAN who threw his catch back into the sea in a bid to foil fisheries officers has been fined.

Andrew Skinner, of Hamilton Road in Hamworthy, admitted retaining undersized manila clams on board his vessel at Bournemouth Magistrates' Court on Thursday, January 5.

The court heard that officers from the Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) asked to conduct an inspection of Skinner's catch on Thursday, October 15 2015.

The officers found a small quantity of manila clams onboard the vessel, and after measuring a sample of the catch, ascertained that 70 per cent were under the legal minimum size of 35mm.

As officers told Skinner, 25, of their intention to measure another sample, the defendant threw the rest of the catch overboard.

IFCA officers have powers to inspect vessels, premises and vehicles under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.

The manila claim fishery in Poole Harbour supports 45 permit holders.

IFCA deputy chief officer Ian Jones said: "Fisheries regulations are an essential management tool that include minimum landing sizes to protect juvenile stock.

"Inspections ensure that fisherman are complying with the rules, and discarding catch overboard prevents officers from fulfilling that duty."

Skinner was ordered to pay a total of £430 in fines and costs.

Any information relating to illegal fishing activity can be reported in confidence on 01202 721373.