Illegal Fishing Spree Costs California Anglers Thousands

It’s the Californians AGAIN, isn’t it? Three fishermen from the Golden State thought they’d hit the jackpot on Wyoming’s North Platte River when they were reeling in far too many trout than allowed by law.  But instead of bragging rights, they racked up thousands of dollars in fines and a one-year fishing ban in 48 states. Montana fishermen, this one’s for you, so get the popcorn.

It starts near Saratoga, Wyoming, where these dudes felt they didn't have to follow the rules. They vacuum sealed a phenomenal 32 brown trout (18 of them above the 16-inch size limit) along with one, very unlucky rainbow trout.

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Enter Wyoming Game Warden Levi Wood, who found the illegal stash and began asking questions.

Initially, the Cali anglers insisted that they had only taken their legal limit of three trout per day. But after gentle persuasion, (a.k.a undeniable proof and evidence) they confessed to exceeding daily limits and possession limits and retaining fish way over size limits.

The damage? One fisherman kept 10 brown trout (four oversized), another kept 16 (nine oversized), and the last took home seven (five oversized). Wyoming does not take kindly to fish poaching. In December, a judge assessed them $1,140 in fines, $1,500 in restitution, and a one-year fishing ban. Not only in Wyoming, but 48 states. That means that if they were hoping to itch their way to Montana for some trout therapy, they’re out of luck.

Speaking of Montana, this helps explain why local anglers get cranky when out-of-staters come into town and think the rules don’t apply to them. You wouldn’t pull this stunt on the Bitterroot River. So, to all the California anglers who were planning a trip to Big Sky Country, do yourself a favor and read the regs before you start cramming trout into your cooler.