Indiana wildlife officials arrest four men for illegal fishing in Morgan County

Photo courtesy of the DNR

MORGAN COUNTY, Ind. – Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conservation officers charged four Indianapolis men with multiple fishing violations, including trespassing and illegal net fishing, on Stotts Creek in Morgan County on Saturday.

Officers Christman and Williams of the DNR's District 6 Unit found the men casting nets in closed waters, resulting in the seizure of approximately 285 fish. Many of the fish caught were identified as wild species protected by state regulations. The men now face charges of violating Indiana's fishing laws, which regulate the methods and locations permitted for recreational fishing to help preserve local ecosystems and maintain sustainable fish stocks.

While deer season is now underway, Indiana conservation officials emphasize that Indiana waterways are still actively patrolled to protect them from illegal fishing practices that could harm the state's fishery.

The DNR encourages anyone who suspects a violation of state hunting or fishing laws to report it by calling 1-800-TIP-IDNR.