MNR ensures that anglers participating in tournaments follow the Ontario Fishing Regulations.

Max Wilson, of Cambellsport, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to illegally catching and possessing an excess quantity of walleye and was fined $5,000.

Isaac Lakich, of Richfield, Wis., pleaded guilty to illegally catching and possessing an excess quantity of walleye and was fined $3,000.

The court heard that on July 28, 2023, Wilson and Lakich were fishing as part of the National Walleye Tour event in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Following the event, an investigation was launched after allegations that Wilson and Lakich had broken Ontario fishing laws and subsequently won the tournament. The investigation revealed that Wilson captured and retained six walleyes in the Ontario waters of the North Channel of Lake Huron, where the limit is four walleyes, and that Lakich captured and retained five walleyes in the same Ontario waters.

Justice of the Peace Kyle Cachagee heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice in Sault Ste. Marie on August 7, 2024.