IFI prosecutes angler for using live fish as bait to catch pike
Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has gained a conviction against an angler for using live roach to catch pike.
Mr Oleksandr Gavryuchenkov of Ewings Bar apartments, Carlow, was found to have illegally used live fish as bait.
The incident happened near Ballytiglea Lock on the River Barrow, Borris, Co Carlow.
Commenting, Lynda Connor South-Eastern regional director at IFI, said: “The use of live bait is banned by law to prevent the transfer of non-native species between freshwater systems.
“The vast majority of anglers in Ireland fish responsibly and sustainably, and abide by relevant State regulations.
“It is paramount that anglers continue to abide by stringent biosecurity protocols.”
The illegal incident was in contravention of the Prohibition on the Use of Live Fish as Bait in Fresh Water Bye-law.
Filleted pike flesh illegally caught at the River Barrow.
Mr Gavryuchenkov was also accused of illegally having more than 750g of pike flesh.
Anglers are not allowed to possess more than 0.75kgs of pike flesh or parts under statutory conservation measures.
He was fined €300, and ordered to pay €400 in costs to IFI.
The case was heard at Kilkenny District Court on October 22nd, 2024.
The incident occurred on March 25th, 2024.
IFI urge people to report illegal fishing activity, habitat destruction, water pollution, fish kills, or issues of concern in their local rivers/lakes to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.
