Angler apprehended following the capture of 14 large fish: "Nabbed with evidence"

An individual from Massachusetts has been apprehended for unlawfully capturing and retaining a sum of 14 large striped bass.

The Portsmouth Herald reported that authorities received information about an angler not releasing catches from his boat while fishing off the coast of New Hampshire near New Castle and Rye.

The investigation and interview conducted by NH Fish and Game officers led to a "caught red-handed" confession from the individual.

He aimed to sell his catch under his Commercial Striped Bass Permit in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as stated in the post.

Several anglers yelled at the man, threatening to report him to the fish and game agency, causing him to flee the scene.

The OGT's post stated that the officers searched and included Maine Marine Patrol, Massachusetts Environmental Police, and local police to BOLO for the suspect vessel and operator.

"The Portsmouth Police Department found him after he had loaded his boat onto a trailer and was attempting to discard the fish."

The striped bass in New Hampshire exceeded the legal maximum length requirement, measuring between 37-47 inches.

According to OGT officials on Facebook, New Hampshire only grants a recreational license for saltwater fishing, which permits one Striped Bass per angler per day that must measure between 28 inches and 31 inches.

After being arrested, the Massachusetts fisherman was accused of breaking fishing regulations and unlawfully keeping the striped bass.

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If the man is found guilty of the charges, he will lose his fishing license in New Hampshire and be fined for each of the 14 illegal fish he caught, Fish and Game Colonel Kevin Jordan stated in the Portsmouth Herald.

The fisherman could face trial in Portsmouth District Court if he pleads not guilty, with Fish and Game prosecutors opposing him.

The fisherman's illegal fish are currently being held in freezers in anticipation of a trial. These fish may later be presented as evidence.

Jordan suggested freezing the leftovers temporarily and donating them to a food bank or donation center to prevent waste.

The fishing community and local law enforcement were thanked by the OGT for their efforts in reporting and stopping the abuse of natural resources.

Planet Chronicle Digital reached out to New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife for comment.