More than 130 tautog, dozens of undersized fish, thousands of dollars in fines, and multiple enforcement actions: Rhode Island Environmental Police have had their hands full addressing fisheries violations this fall.
In October, two fishermen were caught possessing more than 70 tautog and black sea bass, most of which failed to meet the 16-inch minimum size. The incident resulted in fines exceeding $3,000.
Then, in Middletown, an investigation involving two groups of anglers resulted in eight individuals being cited for possessing 67 tautog, including 53 undersized fish, and 10 black sea bass. Citations totaled $2,700.
Officers also recently discovered 140 fillets of suspected black sea bass and tautog aboard another vessel.
The incidents highlight the importance of fisheries enforcement and the responsibility all anglers share in protecting Rhode Island’s marine resources. Those who disregard size and possession limits aren’t just breaking the rules; they’re taking away from a fishery that countless responsible anglers value.
Environmental Police ask anyone witnessing suspected fishing violations to call their 24-hour dispatch at 401-222-3070.
The fines aren’t severe enough! The boats and fishing gear should be confiscated as well. The violators should loose their fishing licenses for 5-10 years.