A Huron County resident has been fined $6,000 and handed a three-year fishing ban after being convicted of multiple fishing violations in Ontario.
Jason Nieuwenhoff was found guilty of several offences, including using a spear to fish, possessing a spear near the water’s edge, fishing without a licence, and fishing during prohibited nighttime hours.
The Ontario Court of Justice heard that conservation officers encountered Nieuwenhoff shortly after 3:00 a.m. on April 13, 2025, while he was attempting to spear rainbow trout. Further investigation revealed additional incidents on April 12, 2025, and multiple occasions between March and April of 2024.
The court also heard that Nieuwenhoff did not possess a valid fishing licence during either year.
In addition to the fine and fishing ban, equipment used in the offences, including a spear and spotlight, was forfeited to the Crown.
The case was heard in Goderich in February 2026.
Authorities are reminding residents to follow fishing regulations and report any suspected violations through the ministry’s TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667 or Crime Stoppers.