Specially Trained Dog Sniffs Out Illegal Fishing
Dog Put To Use For Fishing Derby
POSTED: 5:29 pm EST February 3, 2005
MEREDITH, N.H. — As thousands of anglers prepare for the annual Great Rotary Fishing Derby this weekend, a specially trained dog is preparing to catch any illegal activity.
Dog May Be Deterrent To Illegal Fishing
Fish and Game Officer Mark Hensel and his black Labrador, Poacher, will be on the lookout for any fish that anglers shouldn’t be catching.
“We’re looking for illegal salmon, illegal fish over the limits, illegal length sizes,” Hensel said.
The two search around bob houses, in the snow, in coolers and in vehicles — anywhere a fisherman may try to stash his catch.
“He knows what he’s supposed to be looking for,” Hensel said. “When he does come across something, then we come and identify it.”
Poacher is trained to bark when he smells a fish so Hensel can determine whether it is an illegal catch. The dog will be used year-round for search-and-rescue missions, tracking and evidence detection.
Poacher was certified for fish detection last fall, and this winter will be his first ice-fishing season. Whether he catches an angler breaking the law this weekend remains to be seen, but officials said just having him out on the ice will help stop illegal activity before it happens.