Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) enforcement agents cited two Evangeline Parish men for alleged fishing violations in Rapides Parish on June 9.
Agents cited Brandon Theriot, 37, of Ville Platte, for taking fish illegally and Regan Theriot, 32, also of Ville Platte, for angling without a license.
Agents were on patrol on the Red River when they made contact with the subjects in a small fishing vessel fishing on the river. During a compliance check, agents found the subjects in possession of two catfish.
After further inspection, agents found a line that led to a 12-volt battery under Brandon Theriot’s seat, which was connected to a can of smokeless tobacco. During questioning, Theriot admitted to the agents of using the electrical device to shock and harvest the catfish.
Agents seized the device and the catfish were released back into the water.
Taking fish illegally brings a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. Angling without a license brings up to a $50 fine.
Agents involved in the case are Sgt. James Bruce and Agent Lane Causey.