The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and the Coastal Marine Task Force (CMTF) have launched a crackdown on illegal fishing practices along the KwaZulu-Natal coast as the shad season approaches. Many anglers are reported to be violating regulations by keeping undersized juvenile shad and exceeding the daily bag limit of four fish per person, with a minimum length requirement of 30 cm. Offenders face spot fines or potential criminal prosecution. The CMTF, which works closely with local authorities, aims to educate the public about these laws while enforcing compliance to protect the shad population, which has seen significant declines over the years. The spokesperson for the CMTF highlighted that while some offenders claim poverty as a reason for their actions, others are equipped with luxury gear, indicating a broader issue of illegal fishing syndicates. The task force has also made strides in addressing illegal gill-netting and the unlawful harvesting of crayfish. Their efforts have garnered support from recreational anglers who are keen to preserve marine biodiversity and have become valuable informants in reporting illegal activities.