Anglers fined for smuggling bait

News Release
M.N.R.

Two United States residents have been fined a total of $1,000 for attempting to smuggle live bait into Ontario.

Eric Lee Udelhoven of Boone, Iowa, was fined $500 for bringing live leeches into Ontario for use as bait.

Maynard Baratto of Hibbing, Minnesota, was fined $500 for the same offence.

Court heard that, in June 2011, Udelhoven tried to smuggle live bait into Ontario through the Canada Customs entry station on Sand Point Lake in Rainy River District. In a separate incident in September 2011, Baratto attempted to bring in live bait through the same entry station.

In both cases, a Canadian customs officer seized the bait and later turned it over to a Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officer.
Justice of the Peace Pat Clysdale-Cornell heard the cases in the Ontario Court of Justice, Fort Frances, on October 28, 2011.
The ministry reminds anglers that importing live baitfish and other non-native species into Ontario poses a significant risk to aquatic ecosystems and valuable fisheries.
To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).