When SCDNR received a call recently about two pier anglers keeping undersized fish, as well as an illegal number of fish, Region 4 Officers Thompkins and Williams headed to the pier and began investigating. This led to two alleged poachers being fined for five undersized fish, and for having 67 fish over the legal limit.
Williams counted a total of 41 Spanish mackerel and 18 bluefish from one suspect. Thompkins found another suspect with 23 Spanish mackerel and 21 bluefish.
Both suspected poachers now have pending charges and will be dealt with by the courts.
When cases like this occur, people always ask “what happens to the fish?” It is donated to local food banks and shelters, so it doesn’t go to waste.
Don’t forget, if you see illegal activities in the outdoor world, you can report those violations anonymously to Operation Game Thief in South Carolina by calling 800-922-5431, and in North Carolina by calling 800-662-7137.