June 30, 2009
WALLEYE OVER-POSSESSION PROVES COSTLY
Two northwestern Ontario anglers must pay $1,200 each for possessing an over limit of walleyes.
Robert Mitchell, of Longlac, and Donald Burgess, of Thunder Bay, were charged under Ontario fishing regulations.
Court heard that on May 17, 2009, Mitchell and Burgess were stopped by conservation officers checking anglers as they arrived by boat at the Kenogami River landing, eight kilometres north of Longlac. The men had a total of 20 walleyes between them – 12 over the legal daily limit of four each. All fish were seized and forfeited to the Crown.
Justice of the Peace Gene Bannon heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Geraldton, on June 23, 2009.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds the public that it is illegal to stockpile large quantities of fish. An individual may not possess more fish than the daily catch of that species. You are considered to possess fish if you are storing them at home or at other locations, storing them in freezers, holding them on stringers, or even eating them as part of a day’s meal.
To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).