Poaching (the illegal taking of fish, game or plants) is a growing problem around the world, but it is one that you can help prevent. You are the solution. If you see anything suspicious, call your state’s wildlife and fisheries department. Many of us travel out of state to pursue our fly fishing passion. If you witness a suspicious activity and are unsure where to report it, International Wildlife Crimestoppers has an interactive map of the United States and Canada that will connect you directly with the appropriate agency. Visit them at the following website:
Reports can be confidential and you may receive a reward for information that you provide if it leads to an arrest or fines. Suspicious activities to be on the lookout for can include but not limited to:
- Hunting or fishing out of season
- Hunting or fishing without a license
- Hunting or fishing during prohibited periods (such as night)
- Hunting or fishing on private land without permission
- Exceeding bag and or length limits
- Selling wildlife or fish illegally
- Hunting or fishing in manners hazardous to the public or while intoxicated
- Using illegal hunting or fishing baits or devices, such as illegal nets
- Illegal trash and/or tire dumpingAny activity that threatens the fish or game habitat
Remember to be safe. You are a witness, not law enforcement. Do not attempt to stop or detain the offender. The best way you can help is to remember as many details as possible. Help protect our resources and do what’s right!!! It’s in all of our best interests.
To Report a Violation…
In Louisiana
Operation Game Thief
Operation Game Thief has been around since 1984. Operation Game Thief is a non-profit corporation, funded and managed by volunteer sportsmen from throughout the state. They meet quarterly to review wildlife violation cases resulting from information provided by program participants and to determine and dispense reward amounts. If you witness or have information concerning a violation, call Operation Game Thief’s toll-free 24-hour phone line (800-442-2511) or use LDWF’s tip411 program.
Illegal Fishing or Illegal Dumping
To use the tip411 program, text LADWF and your tip to 847411 or download the “LADWF Tips” iPhone or Android app from the iTunes or Google Play store free of charge. CitizenObserver, the tip411 provider, uses technology that removes all identifying information before LDWF receives the text so that LDWF cannot identify the sender. Texting or downloading the app enables users to send anonymous tips to LDWF and lets LDWF respond back, creating a two-way anonymous “chat”. You can alse send in photos via text or the app to help support your claim and to be used as evidence. The information is received by an LDWF operator and immediately relayed to an enforcement agent who will investigate. If the information results in an arrest, the caller is eligible for a cash reward. Since the program began, more than $375,000 in rewards has been paid. Information provided by Operation Game Thief informants has resulted in the apprehension of more than 700 violators who were convicted on a multitude of state and federal charges. For more information, please contact Lt. Will Roberts at wroberts@wlf.la.gov.
In Mississippi
Call 1-800-BE-SMART or click HERE to submit a report online.
In Alabama
Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division Law Enforcement Section
To report game and fish violations please call Operation Game Watch 1-800-272-4263.
In Florida
Call 888-404-FWCC
If you suspect a fish, wildlife, boating, or environmental law violation, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Reward Program: 888-404-FWCC (3922). Cell phone users can reach us at *FWC or #FWC, depending on your service provider.
Report Violations Online
If your information results in an arrest, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Click HERE to submit a report online.
Report Violations Via Text Message
Most cell phones allow users to send text messages directly to an email address. You can text Tip@MyFWC.com; standard usage fees may apply.
