As of July 1, 2008, Ontario has taken measures to protect lake sturgeon. There is now a zero catch and possession limit on recreational fishing for sturgeon. Recreational anglers will no longer be allowed to keep any lake sturgeon they catch in Ontario. However, traditional use of lake sturgeon by Aboriginal peoples for subsistence and ceremonial purposes will not be affected.
Poaching is the illegal taking of fish or wildlife. Poaching can include any of five factors: time, location, number, method or species. To learn more, click here.
Poaching is a serious and costly crime. It robs ethical anglers and hunters of game and fish, and robs all citizens of our valuable wildlife resources. Poaching can be reduced if concerned citizens report the signs of suspected illegal activity.
If you are witness to a resource violation within Ontario, please call the Ministry of Natural Resources TIPS line at: 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) to report a violation.
The toll-free number provides a direct line for the public to report resource violations to the ministry 24 hours a day, seven days a week from anywhere in Ontario.
Conservation officers will use your information to investigate and enforce our provincial regulations.
To learn more about Lake Sturgeon and their vulnerable status in the Ottawa River, click here.