In a case brought by the Marine and Fisheries Agency, Mr Hurford, 59, of Washbourne Close, Brixham, pleaded guilty to breaching the terms of his licence at Torquay magistrates on September 25, 2009.
The court was told Constant Friend was boarded by officers from the Devon Sea Fisheries Committee after being spotted on April 20 between Berry Head and the mouth of the Dart – an area closed to scallop dredging according to the south Devon trawling and crabbing chart.
The provisions came into force in 1996 to prevent gear conflicts between the different activities of potting and scallop dredging.
David Hassall, defending, said it was a genuine mistake by a member of the crew on a bright sunny day when they knew officials would be present.
Mr Hurford was fined £3,000, with £1,920 costs and £250 towards the cost of the catch.
