Barry Dicks, 67, of Griffith pleaded guilty to catching and retaining walleye during the closed season and has been fined $2,600. He is also banned from fishing for one year. He had 13 walleye in his possession when he was charged.
Robert McLachlin, 50, of Smiths Falls, and Brian R. McDougall, 60, of Merrickville, also pleaded guilty to catching and retaining walleye during the closed season and were fined $400 each.
Michael Bolton 42, of Flinton, pleaded guilty to illegally fishing for walleye during the closed season and was fined $200.
The court was told that on the night of May 10, 2007 conservation officers from the Pembroke office of the Ministry of Natural Resources encountered the men outside their camp in North Frontenac Township, southwest of the village of Calabogie.
The walleye season in that area did not open until May 12, 2007. The 17 walleye and various pieces of fishing equipment seized when charges were laid have been forfeited to the Crown.
Justice of the Peace Barry Moran heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Pembroke, on July 23, 2007.
Anglers are reminded to observe the fishing seasons. In most cases these seasons are designed to protect spawning fish when they are very susceptible to angling.
To report a natural resources violation, call
call Crime Stoppers anonymously at
www.fishlakemanitobanarrows.com