Minister Dion George, overseeing forestry, fisheries, and environmental affairs, praised a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling that upholds a ban on using drones, remote-controlled boats carrying bait, and other devices for fishing.
Fishing drones have become increasingly popular worldwide due to their advanced technology, which helps fishermen find fish, monitor ocean conditions, and deploy bait remotely. However, their use raises concerns about their impact on marine life, leading to regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges in many countries, including South Africa.
George emphasised the sector’s economic importance, underscoring the need for sustainable fishing practices to ensure its long-term viability.
“This ruling is a significant victory for the protection of our marine ecosystems and the enforcement of regulations designed to safeguard our natural resources,” George stated in response to the court’s decision.
Legal framework and ministerial commitment
The Supreme Court of Appeal upheld the provisions of the Marine Living Resources Act and its associated regulations, which strictly dictate permissible fishing methods.
The court emphasised that legal fishing activities must be conducted in accordance with valid permits and compliance with specified daily bag limits and fishing methods outlined in the regulations. Deviation from these guidelines was deemed unlawful under the ruling.
The legal challenge emerged following an application to overturn the ban brought by various business entities involved in the manufacture, import, marketing, and sale of angling equipment, including drones. The Gauteng Division of the High Court had previously dismissed their appeal, affirming the longstanding prohibition under the Marine Living Resources Act of 1988.
George highlighted the department’s earlier public notification in February 2022, which underscored concerns about the illegal use of drones and similar devices by recreational fishers. “The use of these devices for fishing has been illegal since 2005,” the Minister reiterated, warning of enforcement actions against violators.
The department said it remains steadfast in its commitment to conserving and sustainably managing South Africa’s marine resources.
“We believe that the ban on drones and remote-controlled devices in marine environments is crucial in preserving the delicate balance of our oceans and protecting vulnerable species,” George said.
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