Atlantic salmon seized following an investigation by Fish and Wildlife Enforcement officers conducting a boat patrol near Port Albert in July 2016.
David Bennett of Port Albert and Shane Burt of Summerford were convicted of fishing Atlantic salmon during closed time and possession of Atlantic salmon caught in contravention of the Fisheries Act.
Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers investigated the incident that took place on July 18, 2016 when Wildlife Enforcement officers discovered an illegally set net while conducting a boat patrol near Port Albert. Both Mr. Bennett and Mr. Burt were apprehended the following day after officers observed them checking the net, retrieving Atlantic salmon and resetting the net.
Mr. Bennett was fined $3,500 for fishing during closed time and $1,000 for possession of fish caught in contravention. Mr. Burt was fined $2,500 and $1,000 respectively for the same offences. Both men are also prohibited from participating in recreational fishing for four years. One gill net and one Atlantic salmon were forfeited to the Crown.
Suspicious activity can be reported anonymously and toll-free at any time, by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous online reports can also be submitted at www.stoppoaching.ca or www.nlcrimestoppers.com.