An angler from Midland, Michigan in the United States, has been banned from obtaining a fishing licence in Ontario for two years, according to a provincial statement.
It said the angler pleaded guilty to catching and retaining 22 yellow perch over the legal limit near Beaverton in the Township of Brock.
Recently, two York residents were fined $2,500 each for using illegal nets to catch salmon at the Bowmanville Creek in the Municipality of Clarington last year (see below).
The American was fined $2,000 and is prohibited from obtaining a fishing licence or engaging in any fishing-related activities in Ontario for two years. In addition, all fishing equipment used is being forfeited to the Crown.
The court of Justice of the Peace Richard R. Therrien heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Whitby, on April 2.
Ice Fishing on Lake Simcoe
It heard that on February 11, a conservation officer encountered the poacher while ice fishing on Lake Simcoe near the town of Beaverton.
An inspection revealed that the suspect had caught and retained 72 yellow perch that day, 22 more than the daily sport fishing licence quota of 50.
The statement said the Ontario government is safeguarding fish populations in Lake Simcoe by ensuring individuals follow the legal catch and retain limits.
To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667.
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