As a result of an Inland Fish Enforcement Program undercover investigation known as Double Claw, two individuals have recently received convictions in Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador at Gander. Double Claw commenced in 2007 and targeted suspected poaching activity on the Campbellton River in central Newfoundland.

On March 26, 2009, a 44 year-old male of Campbellton, Newfoundland and Labrador, pled guilty to nine charges including: possessing salmon not properly tagged, unlawfully using a line equipped with more than one hook on a scheduled salmon river, jigging Atlantic salmon and trout, as well as possessing salmon and trout caught in contravention of the Fisheries Act. A total fine of $7,000.00 was imposed by the court along with a five year prohibition from recreational and commercial fishing.

On March 10, 2009, a 46 year-old male of Campbellton, Newfoundland and Labrador, pled guilty to three charges including: angling on a scheduled salmon river with a line equipped with more than one hook, jigging Atlantic salmon and possessing salmon caught in contravention. Fines totaling $1,700 were imposed in this matter.

A total of 26 charges have been laid against four individuals as a result of Double Claw. Along with Atlantic salmon, officers seized a vehicle and a quantity of fishing related equipment. Some of the alleged offences included jigging of salmon and trout, illegal possession of salmon, possession of fish caught in contravention of the federal Fisheries Act, and possession of untagged salmon in contravention of the provincial Wild Life Act. Items forfeited to date consist of 29 Atlantic salmon, a rod and reel and a quantity of fishing tackle including two and three pronged jiggers. At present two cases are still before the courts.

The Inland Fish Enforcement Program was established in 2004 to address concerns of the Provincial Government, conservation groups and recreational anglers over the lack of adequate enforcement activities for salmon and trout stocks in the province. The Provincial Government provides over $2 million each year for enforcement and to ensure the preservation of these stocks.

The public is reminded they can anonymously report suspected poaching of salmon or trout to either Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-8477) or the IFEP Headquarters (709-637-2971).

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Media contact:
Ken Morrissey
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 685-6612
kenmorrissey@gov.nl.ca