Ontario Anglers Obey Fishing Regulations

KENORA – Most anglers checked by Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officers on Lake of the Woods in Kenora District were obeying Ontario’s fishing regulations. Conservation officers conducted the enforcement blitz from June 23 to June 25, 2011, checking for compliance with the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and the Ontario Fishery Regulations.

The patrolled area of the lake included Kenora to the Canada/US border at Northwest Angle and toward the mouth of Rainy River, as well as the southeast part of the lake toward Morson, Sabaskong Bay and Nestor Falls. Officers checked anglers who were day tripping, camping on Crown land, using houseboats and lodging at private cottages and tourist camps.

A total of 376 individuals (107 residents and 269 non-residents) were checked during the three-day operation. The officers issued 26 charges for fish- and wildlife-related offences, including:

• having more fish than the legal limit
• fishing without a licence
• importing illegal baitfish
• angling with extra lines
• camping without a permit.

They also issued 39 warnings, including:

not having a licence on person

having packaged fish that could not be readily identified

having fish that could not be measured

importing illegal baitfish

liquor-related offences.

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).