A Verner, Ontario, man was fined $1,300 for catching too many walleye on Lake Nipissing.

Gilbert Ayotte pleaded guilty to possessing an over limit of walleye and failing to show the fish to a conservation officer for inspection, and was fined $800 and $500 respectively.

Court heard that on March 3, 2013, conservation officers, including a canine team, stopped Ayotte on Lake Nipissing. Ayotte initially claimed he had not been fishing, but then admitted that he had and produced two walleye. He denied having any more fish but after further discussions, admitted he had caught more fish.

The canine team found four more walleye in the rear compartment of Ayotte’s snowmobile. Justice of the Peace Michel Moreau heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Sturgeon Falls, on April 15, 2013.

The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds the public that as of January 1, 2013, the catch limits for walleye in Lake Nipissing have changed. Anglers with fishing licences can keep two walleye per day rather than four, while those with a conservation fishing licence can keep one walleye per day rather than two. Also, walleye between 40 and 60 centimetres in length must be released. This slot size is in place to protect spawning-sized walleye.

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

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