Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement recently conducted angler compliance checks on the Bow River near Bearspaw Dam, uncovering multiple violations that led to arrests and charges.
One individual was caught using a set line, which is a fishing method often associated with illegal bait use.
Officers confirmed the angler was using worms, a prohibited bait in the area.
They soon discovered the individual had three outstanding warrants related to previous fisheries offences, including over-limit catches and the use of illegal bait.
The angler was arrested and issued a court date, and all of his fishing gear was seized as evidence.
Soon after, officers encountered two more individuals fishing upriver.
The men attempted to dump the fish they had caught as officers approached.
A search revealed three brown trout, and both anglers were found to be using banned bait. They were ticketed for fisheries violations, and one of the two was arrested on an unrelated outstanding warrant.
Fish and Wildlife authorities remind the public to report violations through Alberta’s 24-hour Report A Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800 or online at alberta.ca/report-poacher. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.