Operation Squarehook

Fish-poaching investigation

In March 2010, the DNR initiated a three-year special enforcement investigation into the illegal selling and buying and dumping of protected game fish in north-central and northwestern Minnesota. The investigation has now resulted in state charges against at least 21 individuals and federal indictments against 10 others. The fish involved were mainly walleye from some of Minnesota most popular fishing lakes: Red Lake, Lake Winnibigoshish, Leech Lake and Cass Lake. The results of the investigation will continue to unfold in 2013.

State charges by county »

Federal indictments »

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DNR News

04/15/2013: More charges to be filed in investigation of illegal sales of game fish in northern Minnesota

Full story »

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Photo of illegally discarded Walleye

Operation Squarehook - illegally discarded fish


Photo of illegally discarded Walleye

Operation Squarehook - illegally discarded fish


Operation Squarehook revealed that while walleye were processed, other species were wasted. These pictures show the remains of filleted walleyes, but also other game fish, such as northern pike, that were illegally discarded. Suspects will be charged for the sale and purchase of the walleye, but also for the wasting of the discarded fish.

Operation Squarehook revealed that while walleye were processed, other species were wasted. These pictures show the remains of filleted walleyes, but also other game fish, such as northern pike, that were illegally discarded. Suspects will be charged for the sale and purchase of the walleye, but also for the wasting of the discarded fish.

How Operation Squarehook worked

Click to enlarge

Map of Operation Squarehook

Lakes where fish were taken and counties where charges will be filed or have been filed.


Lakes where fish were taken and counties where charges will be filed or have been filed.

  

How it worked - Operation Squarehook

How Operation Squarehook worked


How Operation Squarehook worked