Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited a Des Allemands man for alleged recreational catfish violations on Sept. 24.
Agents cited Kerry Fonseca, 48, for taking over the limit of catfish, possessing undersized catfish and for failing to display required navigation lights.
Agents observed Fonseca actively operating his vessel within Bayou Des Allemands around 7:45 p.m. Agents immediately conducted a boating safety inspection as Fonseca failed to display proper navigation lights.
During inspection, agents identified a large crate of blue catfish within the vessel. Fonseca had identified himself as a recreational fisherman and stated he recently fished trotlines to take catfish home to his family.
Agents found Fonseca in possession of 120 catfish of which 62 were under the 12 inch minimum length requirement. The recreational limit for catfish is 100 fish per person, per day. In addition, recreational fishermen may possess undersized catfish not to exceed 25 fish. Agents seized the blue catfish and donated them to a local charity.
Possessing over the limit and undersized recreational catfish each carries a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail. Improper or no running lights carries a $50 fine and up to 15 days in jail. Fonseca may also be ordered to pay civil restitution for the replacement value of the fish totaling up to $100.
Agents participating in the case are Cpl. Kyle Wagner and Sr. Agent Chelsea Kling.