KENORA – Most people in Ontario who fish follow the rules. However some people seem to feel the rules that preserve the fishery for all Ontarians do not apply to them. A Manitoba man has been fined a total of $2,300 for fishing-related offences.
Vincent Wiebe of Lake Francis pleaded guilty and was fined $1,550 for fishing without a licence. He also pleaded guilty and was fined $750 for trespassing for the purpose of fishing. Wiebe’s fishing equipment was seized and will be returned once his fines are paid.
The court heard that on May 28, 2011, a conservation officer contacted Wiebe at the Ontario Power Generation Whitedog Falls generating station, on the Winnipeg River 48 kilometres northwest of Kenora. Wiebe was walking up from behind a “Danger – No Trespassing” sign on the property. Upon investigation, the officer determined that Wiebe had caught seven walleye while on Ontario Power Generation property in an area posted with signs warning people to stay clear. He also did not have an Ontario fishing licence.
Justice of the Peace Roger McCraw heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Kenora, on September 20, 2011.
The public is reminded that the water near hydroelectric stations and dams can be dangerous as flows and levels can change quickly and without warning, in response to demand for electricity.