The enhanced enforcement efforts targeted three primary fisheries. These were striped bass, American lobster and ground fish such as cod and haddock. During the spring and summer of 2006, the initiative resulted in Fish and Game officers issuing 67 summonses and warnings for stripped bass violations and seizing over 75 illegal fish. In addition, COs apprehended numerous fishermen for illegal lobster possession. They also issued 76 summonses and warnings. Further, they issued 9 summonses and warnings for ground fish and other miscellaneous violations. Fifteen summonses and warnings were issued for littering and COs made 7 arrests for drug possession. Officers also made several referrals to National Marine Fisheries Special Agents for violations of federal fisheries regulations.

According to Lt. John Wimsatt, who supervises the N.H. Fish

and Game Law Enforcement in the seacoast district, a combination of factors contributed to the success of these initiatives. "The expertise of our local Fish and Game officers and the support from enthusiastic visiting COs, gave us the necessary manpower to cover the day and nighttime details, while federal support for the effort made it possible."

Two federal programs provided crucial funding in support of New Hampshire’s coastal fisheries enforcement efforts. These included funds from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and the Joint Enforcement Agreement, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office for Law Enforcement.

"We’ve also had excellent support from the seacoast community," Lt. Wimsatt stated. "Our staff received many calls from the public to report illegal striped bass and lobster fishing activities. These calls, and reports to the 24-hour Operation Game Thief hotline (1-800-344-4262) resulted in Fish and Game officers apprehending several violators." Lt. Wimsatt stressed that the vast majority of saltwater anglers voluntarily comply with the regulations and support the efforts of New Hampshire Fish and Game and the National Marine Fisheries Service. For information on New Hampshire’s marine fisheries regulations, readers can visit: www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Fishing/fishing.htm and click on the Saltwater Digest publication cover in the right-hand column. You may also obtain a copy of the Saltwater Digest from local sporting goods stores or direct from the N.H. Fish and Game Department at 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, N.H. 03301.

Unfortunately, there are those who couldn’t care less about rules and regulations and who won’t think twice about breaking the laws, until they are caught. To catch these persons, it takes time, money and the loyal support of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and their personnel. Without them, our resources and enjoyment of the outdoors could be lost forever.

Let’s do our share of the work and report what we see. The fishery we save is ours and the future fishery for our kids and grandkids.

To all of our GRA members and readers, Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year.

Bob Harris can be reached via e-mail at: outwriter2@aol.com