Posted by Ed from pm0-01.foxvalley.net on March 21, 1999 at 20:44:32:
In Reply to: TAKE ACTION, Reporting Poachers posted by Steve on March 21, 1999 at 07:08:39:
: My I make a suggestion?
: The next time you see some one taking under size fish or to many, look around for some one with a cell phone and ask them if you can use it to call the ranger station. I know if some one ask me to use my phone for this purpose I would be happy to assist them if not make the call myself.
: Lets face it, the ranger staff is grossly under staffed. If we want the right to complain about this, WE ALSO HAVE TO BE WILLING TO TAKE ACTION WHEN WE SEE IT HAPPENING.
: When you call be sure to stress that you need a fast response before they have a chance to leave with the fish.
: I bet a dime to a dollar that not only will you have them busted for poaching but they probably don't have a fishing licence also.
: Rememeber, you can't complain if you just stand by and let it happen.
: Good luck and good fishing.
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I have in fact used my cell phone to make reports.
I have found that the threat is most of the time enough to cause the angler to obey the regulations.
Pulling out my fishing license and cell phone to demonstarte that i am dead serious usually gets the desired result.
Here are a couple further tips.
a call with detailed information on the scoundral will cause their automobile plates, vehicle description, and physical description to be logged. At least in Kane County they can, have and will be vigilant in watching for these scofflaws.
For instance there has been a report filed about a certain type of boat that an angler uses to catch numerous smallmouth. He keeps way over the limit. If he is seen by the DNR, he will be stopped!!!
Here is something else I have done.
I have taken the time to get to be friends with our officers.
They now have entusted me with their personal beeper numbers because they realize I do actually care. I have also taken the time to go to the police department and ask if they are willing to use their authority to issue tickets.
Thankfully we have a sargent that is an avid angler. He can, has and will continue to execise his right. If someone wants to fish in this area they risk having their equipment including thier automobile confiscated.