Agents Cite Four Subjects for Recreational Fishing Violations in Vermilion Parish

Published 1:26 pm Thursday, December 2, 2021

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited four individuals for alleged recreational fishing violations in Vermilion Parish on Dec. 1.

Agents cited Hoang Van Pham, 55, of Lafayette, Timmy Van Le, 51, of Eunice, Canh Van Duong, 46, of Crowley, and Steven Van Tran, 43, of Opelousas, for over the limit of red snapper.  Duong was also cited for possessing an undersized shark and not possessing basic and saltwater fishing licenses.

Agents were informed about these subjects possessing over the limit of red snapper.  The agents setup surveillance where they launched their vessel from earlier in Freshwater City.  When the subjects came back from their fishing trip around 10:15 a.m., agents stopped them for a creel and license check.

Agents found the subjects in possession of 27 red snapper putting them 11 over the daily limit.  The daily limit on red snapper is four per person per day.  Duong was also in possession of an undersized black tip shark.  The subjects stated the fish were caught 35 miles south of Freshwater City.

Agents seized the 27 red snapper and shark and donated them to a local charity.

Taking over the limit of red snapper brings a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail.  Possessing an undersized shark brings a $100 to $350 fine and up to 60 days in jail.  Fishing without basic and saltwater licenses carries up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail for each offense.

The subjects may also face civil restitution totaling up to $445 for the replacement value of the red snapper and shark.

Agents participating in this case are Sgt. Justin Sonnier and Corporal Derek Logan.