A Lake Erie commercial fishing boat captain has been fined $3,000 and a Wheatley commercial fishing corporation has been fined $1,000 for a commercial fishing violation.
The Great Lakes Fish Corporation, owner of a commercial fishing licence and Robert Johnston, of Wheatley, captain of the commercial fishing vessel “Brian D”, pleaded guilty to one count each of violating the terms and conditions of a commercial fishing licence.
An investigation conducted by Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officers determined that on March 9, 2009, Captain Robert Johnston submitted his commercial fishing daily catch report to the Ministry of Natural Resources. The report indicated that his gill nets were pulled from Lake Erie after a nine-day set duration. However, further investigation concluded that the gill nets were actually set in the lake for 19 days. Commercial fishing licence conditions permit gill nets to remain in the lake for a maximum of eight days in order to ensure excellent fish quality and to prevent nets from becoming lost in poor ice conditions.
Justice of the Peace Calvin Hurst heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, in Windsor, on March 15, 2010.
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).
Kevin Sprague, Lake Erie Enforcement Team, 519-825-3168
David Beneteau, Lake Erie Enforcement Team, 519-825-4297
