MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (WJAR) — Charges are expected for some fishermen after environmental police discovered 140 fish fillets aboard a vessel off Middletown, according to the Rhode Island Environmental Police Officers Association.
An officer spotted a group of fishermen returning to shore over the weekend. The boat’s operator initially denied having any fish aboard, but officers later uncovered 90 black sea bass fillets and 50 tautog fillets, the association said.
Authorities issued $700 in fines for boating safety violations. Additional fisheries violations are expected to result in charges.
The boaters have not been publicly identified.
Jeff Sullivan, a longtime fisherman who works at Sam’s Bait & Tackle in Middletown, said violations threaten efforts to maintain sustainable fisheries.
Charges expected after police find 140 fish fillets aboard boat off Middletown. (WJAR)
“It’s an eyebrow raiser for sure,” Sullivan said. “Especially when we’re trying to help and maintain a sustainable fishery with striped bass, sea bass, tautog, other species as well. It’s just a shame.”
Sullivan, who has spent decades fishing in the area, said anglers should understand local fishing regulations, including size restrictions and possession limits, before heading out on the water.
“There’s Google, there’s local tackle shops. We’re here to educate you,” he said.
Sullivan said he frequently hears about illegal fishing cases in the area and hopes authorities continue to crack down on violations. He warned that overfishing can affect fisheries for years to come.
“You’ve got to do it the right way, otherwise our kids’ kids won’t enjoy what we’re enjoying, making memories with our families or friends,” Sullivan said.
Information about Rhode Island’s fishing regulations, including minimum sizes and possession limits, is available on the Department of Environmental Management’s website.