IFI gains conviction against a man caught with net, pitchforks and salmon at Kerry river
Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has secured a conviction against a man who was detected with a net, two pitchforks and three salmon at a Kerry river.
Mr John O’Connor of The Lane, Cloghane, Co. Kerry, was detected with a 20m multi-layer trammel-type net, two pitchforks and three unlawfully caught salmon at the Owenmore River.
He refused to cooperate with IFI Fisheries Officers and the Gardaí were called to the scene to assist.
Three seized salmon and a seized net
Commenting after the verdict Sean Long IFI’s south-western regional director said: "IFI welcomes the successful prosecution of this case.
"This conviction is the result of the continued vigilance and determination of Kerry Fisheries Officers to stamp out illegal salmon netting.
"The Owenmore River, located in the newly created Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, is a pristine salmonid habitat that is vulnerable to illegal fishing due to its remoteness.
"IFI thank the Gardaí for their assistance at the incident.
"Mr O’Connor now has a criminal record which can be an obstacle when it comes to work, education, travel, or other areas of life – the risk is never worth the reward."
Two seized pitchforks
Mr O’Connor was found to have used an unauthorised net and was found in possession or control of unlawfully captured salmon.
He must pay fines of €650 and was also ordered to pay costs and expenses of €400 to IFI.
The case was heard at Tralee District Court on February 12th, 2025.
The incident occurred on August 16th, 2023.
IFI urges the public to report instances of illegal fishing, water pollution, fish kills, or habitat destruction to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.
