|
Fined $4,800 for Poaching Walleye in a Fish Sanctuary
NEWS November 15, 2012
A Grimsby man has been fined $4,800 for poaching walleye in a fish sanctuary.
Colton T. Norris pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawfully fishing in a fish sanctuary. Court heard that Norris unlawfully fished in a sanctuary area on the Scugog River over a period of three nights, occurring sometime between March 24 and March 28, 2012. In the course of investigation, a Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officer found that Norris had caught and kept 12 walleye during this time; he was fined $4,800 for the offence. In addition to the fine, Norris received a two-year probation order, which prohibits him from fishing, or possessing a fishing licence, for the first year, and only allows him to fish in the second year if he is in possession a valid fishing licence and accompanied by his father and/or grandfather.
Justice of the Peace James E. Oates heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Lindsay, on November 2, 2012.
Fish sanctuaries are important, designated areas where no fishing of any kind is permitted. They can be seasonal in duration or extend for the entire year, but are usually established at times when fish are especially vulnerable to angling. In many areas of Zone 17, the closure begins on November 16, to coincide with the closure of walleye seasons and protect walleye populations that may aggregate in these areas in the fall, winter and early spring from incidental catch. These areas remain closed during the first week of walleye season to protect any post-spawn walleye aggregations. For further information on fishing regulations, please consult the 2012 Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary, available at ServiceOntario/Government Information Centres, from licence issuers and at ontario.ca/fishing. To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
|
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
