Enforcement agents with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries cited two men for alleged saltwater fishing violations on June 12 in Lafourche Parish.
Agents cited Jimmy L. Brown, 51, of Mobile, Ala., and Eric J. Breaux, 32, of New Iberia, for taking red snapper during a closed season, taking over the limit of red snapper, failing to keep saltwater fish intact and failing to possess a recreational offshore landing permit (ROLP).
Brown was also cited for not possessing non-resident basic and saltwater fishing licenses. Breaux was also cited for possessing shark during a closed season.
Agents received a tip about an oil supply boat that possessed fish illegally. They were able to stop the vessel in Belle Pass and make contact with Brown and Breaux.
Agents found Brown in possession of 90 pounds of red snapper filets, 9.9 pounds of Spanish mackerel filets and 6.5 pounds of cobia chunks. Agents found Breaux in possession of 16 pounds of red snapper filets and 7.1 pounds of blacktip shark filets.
Failing to keep saltwater fish intact brings a $250 to $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail. Taking over the limit of red snapper and taking red snapper during a closed season each carries a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail for each offense. Failing to possess nonresident basic and saltwater fishing licenses, and possessing shark during a closed season each brings up to a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail for each offense. Failing to possess an ROLP carries up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail.
Brown may also face civil restitution totaling up to $400 for the replacement value of the illegally possessed fish. Breaux may also face civil restitution totaling up to $68 for the replacement value of the illegally possessed fish.
