From the moment the Mississippi was first inhabited by humans, it immediately became clear that this was one of the best fishing spots in the entire nation. Most fishing enthusiasts today consider the Magnolia State to be one of the best in terms of fishing, providing an ample supply of bass, trout, reddish, snappers, and much more. However, fishermen have the potential to catch fines as well as fish when they venture into Mississippi waters. Not only are these fines easier to incur than many realize, but they are also much more extensive. As a recent criminal case in Mississippi illustrates, it is possible to rack up tens of thousands of dollars in fines for a single fishing trip.
Two Fisherman Ordered to Pay $10,550 for Illegal Crappie Fishing
In late October of 2023, the Justice Department announced that two fishermen in Tennessee were facing serious fines and restitution obligations for an illegal fishing trip. In total, the two individuals were ordered to pay a sum of $10,550. Their crime was harvesting too many crappies during a trip in January of 2023. During this trip, the pair headed out into the Enid Lake Spillway and proceeded to catch a total of 171 crappie. As the Justice Department notes, the pair were only allowed to capture 30 crappies that day – and so they exceeded the limit by 141 fish. Their situation became even worse due to the fact that they used oversized hooks. Finally, they used too many hooks per line, representing a third violation.
Each defendant was ordered to pay $1,000 in total fines plus restitution in the amount of $4,275. This restitution went directly to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Finally, the fishermen had their fishing license revoked for one year. This prohibits them from fishing not only in Mississippi but in any waters across the entire globe. It’s not clear how the authorities would enforce such a prohibition in certain areas of the planet (most notably international waters). However, it seems clear that the prohibition will prevent them from fishing anywhere in the United States at the very least.
Are Mississippi Fishing Regulations Really That Bad?
It is worth noting that these two fishermen experienced particularly serious penalties, and an individual who is ignorant of the various regulations shouldn’t expect to pay tens of thousands of dollars for an honest mistake. The defendants were clearly commercial fishermen who intended to catch as many crappies as possible that day. Combined with the aforementioned hook violations, this led to a particularly serious fine.
That being said, all those who engage in fishing should be aware of the various regulations in Mississippi – and the potential penalties for violations. According to Mississippi law, these violations are prosecuted as misdemeanors. A first offense will result in a maximum penalty of $500 and a minimum penalty of $100. However, it is possible to face a penalty of up to $1,000 for a first offense if it occurs during a closed season.
For second offenses within three years of the first offense, the minimum fine increases to $500 – while the maximum fine increases to $1,000. Third and subsequent offenses within a three-year period can reach up to a minimum penalty of $2,000 and a maximum of $4,000. Furthermore, offenders can spend up to 30 days in a county jail for this violation. This should result in the revocation of your fishing license for one year.
The same penalties are true for a fifth offense within five years, but in this case, your fishing license may be suspended indefinitely. Finally, Mississippi authorities are allowed to fine a single fisherman up to $10,000 for a particular offense based on the specific circumstances. This means that, for all intents and purposes, the consequences could have been twice as bad for the aforementioned two fishermen.
Where Can I Find a Qualified Fishing Defense Attorney in Mississippi?
If you’re facing fishing fines in Mississippi and you are wondering whether you can defend yourself in court, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. We represent those accused of hunting and fishing violations in the Magnolia State, and we understand the magnitude of potential consequences. With our assistance, you can explore a range of different defense strategies as you strive to clear your name and escape potential fines. Book your consultation today to get started.