MNR/OPP Ice Fishing Blitz On Georgian Bay Nets Numerous Charges
Three members of the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and four Great Lakes Conservation Officers (MNR) conducted an off road enforcement blitz on snowmobilers and anglers in the Midland area on January 30 & 31, 2010.
They were assisted by an MNR K-9 named “Tanner” who is a four year old Labrador/Sheppard mix work dog who assisted in locating any illegal fish catches that ice anglers may have put out of sight from the officers.
Charges laid consisted of twenty two persons being charged with various offences under the Liquor Licence Act, seven persons were charged with offences under the Ontario Fisheries Regulations and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. Five snowmobile operators were charged with offences under the Motorized Snow Vehicles Act and one ATV operator was charged with an offence under the Off Road Vehicle Act.
One angler was found to have an outstanding warrant and was arrested, removed from the ice and transported to Central North Correction Center and two other anglers were served notices that their driver’s licences were under suspension found out during the course of angler/snowmobile checks.
In total over 125 snowmobiles were checked and 180 persons were contacted during the two day blitz with MNR/OPP snowmobiles travelling 215Km.
Anglers are reminded to consult the 2010 Fishing Regulations Summary and to always check with local anglers for current ice and weather conditions prior to venturing out on the ice.
Anglers should review other applicable regulations, including the requirement to carry a
valid fishing licence while angling and ensuring that any ice hut is properly registered.
The latter can be done free of charge by contacting your local Ministry of Natural Resource Office at Midhurst 705-725-7500.
To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Conservation Officer Bruce Ward: Upper Great Lakes Management Unit - (705) 526-3761
