Shocking footage has shown adults yelling and swearing at a group of boys who were fishing at West Lakes in Adelaide’s west. 

In the footage, one adult is even seen throwing a boy’s backpack onto the ground.

The adults claimed their issue wasn’t with the fishing itself, but with the potential damage to the natural habitat for ducks and turtles. 

One man involved later apologised for his actions. 

“On that level I do apologise,” Stephan said. 

“I didn’t mean any harm, because I’m not a person into violence but my behaviour obviously shows a different aspect.”

Recfish SA has condemned the behaviour of the adults. 

“We absolutely do not condone that sort of behaviour for children fishing in their own neighbourhood,” said Asher Dezsöery, a representative for the organisation. 

Recfish SA has offered to buy the boys new fishing gear.

The City of Charles Sturt, which manages the lake, is currently reviewing its bylaws around fishing. 

Police responded to the incident on Saturday and moved both groups on. The investigation is ongoing.