Superior fisherman fined for bad paperwork

NEWS RELEASES

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

****************************** Commercial fishing offences lead to $1,500 in fines

A Lake Superior commercial fishing boat captain was fined $1,500 for violating the conditions of his licence.

Mathew Miklovic, of Zurich, captain of the commercial fishing vessel Mike J, pleaded guilty to failing to comply with the conditions of his commercial fishing licence on July 22, 2009.

An investigation by the Ministry of Natural Resources found that Miklovic had commercial fishing nets set in an area of Lake Superior that were not recorded in his daily catch reports.

Holders of commercial fishing licences must ensure all the conditions of their licences are met, including submitting paperwork that is complete and legible.

Justice of the Peace Paula Nichols heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Sault Ste. Marie, on July 8, 2010.

To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry officer during regular business hours.

You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

****************************** Blitz finds most anglers obeying regulations

A six-day enforcement blitz by the Ministry of Natural Resources between Sault Ste. Marie and St. Joseph Island found 71 percent of anglers obeying the rules.

Conservation officers checked 160 anglers between June 11 and June 16.

The blitz resulted in 11 charges and 35 warnings for violations relating to fishing, liquor and the operation of small vessels.

Violations included:

- Fishing without a licence on person.

- Fishing without a licence.

- Angling for fish during a closed season.

- Angling with more than the permitted number of lines.

- Catching and retaining more than the allowable limit of fish.

- Operating a vessel with open alcohol.

- Operating a vessel without the proper safety equipment onboard.

Anglers are reminded to consult the 2010 Fishing Regulations Summary prior to heading out on the water.

In addition, anglers should review other applicable regulations before fishing and operating small vessels.

For further information on fishing regulations, please consult the 2010 Fishing Regulations Summary, available at ServiceOntario/Government Information Centres, 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 officer during regular business hours.

You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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