Two Americans Fined $8K for Illegal Fishing in Canada NOW

BREAKING: Two Americans have been fined a total of $8,000 for illegal fishing in Canadian waters during a tournament in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. The fines come after a court ruling that revealed they unlawfully caught an overlimit of walleye in Lake Huron.

On July 28, 2023, Max Wilson from Cambellsport, Wis., and Isaac Lakich from Richfield, Wis., participated in the National Walleye Tour event. Both men pleaded guilty to exceeding fishing limits in Ontario waters. Wilson was fined $5,000 for retaining six walleye, while Lakich was fined $3,000 for catching five walleye. The legal catch limit in those waters is four walleye.

“Following the event, an investigation was launched after allegations surfaced that Wilson and Lakich broke Ontario fishing laws,” the Ministry of Natural Resources stated in a news release. The investigation confirmed the claims, leading to the court hearing held on August 7 in the Ontario Court of Justice.

The case raises serious concerns about fishing regulations and the preservation of natural resources in Canada. Authorities encourage the public to report any suspected violations. To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, call the ministry’s TIPS line toll-free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

As fishing tournaments grow in popularity, adherence to regulations becomes crucial to protect wildlife and maintain fair competition. This incident underscores the importance of compliance among anglers, especially in cross-border waters. The Ministry of Natural Resources remains vigilant in enforcing fishing laws to safeguard aquatic ecosystems.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities continue to monitor fishing activities in the region.