Michigan man fined by court

An individual from the United States has been fined $1,700 after an October court hearing.

A man from Belleville, Michigan pleaded guilty to fishing without a licence and fishing with extra lines. In addition to the fine, he is prohibited from possessing an Ontario fishing licence and engaging in any fishing activities in the province for one year.

The Ministry of Natural Resources added in a press release that 12 walleye and the man’s fishing gear were seized and forfeited to the Crown.

The Ontario Court of Justice heard that on May 26, 2025, a conservation officer was on marine patrol in Lake Erie near the town of Amherstburg. The officer observed the male in a boat fishing with five lines in the water, which is three more than is legally allowed. Upon inspection, he was found to be in possession of 12 walleye and had no valid Ontario fishing licence.

Justice of the Peace Maureen Ryan-Brode heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice in Windsor, Oct. 20, 2025.

To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. The public may also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/MNRTips.

Michigan man fined by court