Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement agents cited a Metairie man with an alleged commercial fishing violation on Oct. 29 in Plaquemines Parish.
Agents cited Seven P. Rhoto, 37, for using bandit gear in state waters. Bandit gear is allowed to be used in federal waters and is normally used by federally permitted reef fish holders, but is illegal in Louisiana water.
Agents observed a vessel using bandit gear fishing for red snapper near the mouth of the Mississippi River in Plaquemines Parish. Upon inspection of the vessel, agents found Rhoto in possession of 1,088 pounds of red snapper, 44 pounds of lane snapper and 17 pounds of white trout.
Using bandit gear in state waters carries a fine of $400 to $950 and up to 90 days in jail. Agents seized the vessel on a department seizure order, the bandit gear and the illegally taken fish.
Agents involved in the case are Sgt. Todd Laviolette and Lt. Louis Burnett.
For more information, contact Adam Einck at 225-765-2465 or aeinck@wlf.la.gov.