Environmental Conservation Officers (EOCs) with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Division of Law Enforcement recently conducted compliance checks on Long Island and discovered multiple instances of illegal striped bass fishing. Despite the official season not starting until April 15, some individuals were caught catching and keeping striped bass before this date. ECO Brent McCarthy observed several individuals catching the out-of-season fish, and with the help of ECO Christopher DeRose and his K-9, Cramer, they found hidden catches measuring between 25 to 35 inches buried under sand and hidden under logs and brush piles. Seven people were ticketed for taking striped bass during the closed season.
The illegal activities did not stop there, as poachers got more creative in hiding the illegal catches. Another ECO, Lawrence Pabes, responded to a report of three anglers stashing striped bass on the Bayville Bridge in Mill Neck ahead of the season opener. After conducting search, seven striped bass were discovered hidden inside traffic cones along the top of the bridge. The three individuals were issued tickets for illegal possession of fish during the closed season and failure to carry marine registry. The following evenings, more individuals were caught and seven people were ticketed for possession of out-of-season striped bass, and three for failing to possess a marine registry.
With striped bass season officially underway, the DEC announced updated regulations just in time for the season to begin. Any striped bass caught in the Hudson River and other streams north of the George Washington Bridge can only be kept if they measure between 23 and 28 inches in length. The DEC is dedicated to protecting and preserving the fish and wildlife of New York state, with Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Investigators working tirelessly to enforce environmental conservation laws and hold poachers and polluters accountable. In 2023, ECOs and Investigators responded to over 30,932 complaints and issued nearly 16,900 tickets or arrests for various violations.
The DEC’s efforts to enforce environmental conservation laws and protect natural resources are ongoing and include working with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure compliance. DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar emphasized the importance of promoting the safe and responsible enjoyment of the outdoors while holding violators accountable. The DEC’s Division of Law Enforcement has been actively addressing violations ranging from deer poaching to solid waste dumping, illegal mining, the illegal pet trade, and excessive emissions violations. The officers involved in ticketing and enforcement actions remain committed to their work in protecting New York’s natural resources.
The DEC’s recent efforts in addressing illegal striped bass fishing serve as a reminder of the importance of following regulations and protecting fish populations for future generations. The enforcement actions taken by the ECOs highlight the dedication of law enforcement officers in safeguarding the state’s natural resources. As the fishing season progresses, the DEC will continue to monitor compliance and enforce regulations to ensure the sustainable management of fish populations. By working together with the community and law enforcement partners, the DEC aims to promote responsible fishing practices and protect the environment for all to enjoy.
