PORCUPINE PLAIN RESIDENT FINED AND RECEIVES HEAVY RESTRICTIONS FOR ILLEGAL FISHING

On November 15, 2011, Gerald Campeau was found guilty of two counts under The Saskatchewan Fisheries Regulations for possession of fish taken or obtained contrary to the Act and one count of aid, abet, counsel or procure the contravention of a provision under The Fisheries Act (Saskatchewan). In addition to a $2,540 fine, Campeau received a two year probation order which includes reporting any fishing activity, including that conducted under his Treaty rights, to the Ministry of Environment and he is prohibited from applying for or obtaining a license for a period of four years.

Conservation Officers laid the charges after an investigation was initiated due to ongoing public complaints that non-Treaty and Treaty people were taking and illegally possessing northern pike within the protected size range of 75-115 cm from Tobin Lake near Nipawin. These people were doing so outside of the fishing for sustenance privileges granted under Treaty rights.

Tobin Lake is well known as one of the premier walleye and pike fishing destinations in Saskatchewan. Reduced limits on the lake are designed to protect the fisheries for future generations.

"Taking protected fish can harm efforts to maintain game fish populations," Ministry of Environment Compliance and Enforcement Director Ken Aube said. "We believe that the significant penalties imposed in this case will serve as a deterrent to those who abuse our fisheries resources in the future."

Anyone who is aware of or suspects fisheries, wildlife, forestry or environmental violation is encouraged to report them to the nearest Ministry of Environment office or to call the toll-free Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 for SaskTel cell phone subscribers. Callers may be eligible for cash rewards through the SASKTIP reward program.

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For more information, contact:

Rich Hildebrand
Environment
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-2298