Thank you so much for your support! It's such a crazy ordeal that is going to really going to negatively impact my friends livelihood if not overturned in court. Fish on!
I retired after 28 years in law enforcement, my advice would be definitely go to court and ask for leniency on the fine from the judge. One thing that they have to prove is the fish was actually snagged and actually a paddlefish and it wasn't some dead fish that you found washed up on the bank. I'm sure you probably already admitted that you snagged a paddle fish. Remember that they have to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. Many times the judge will reduce the fine significantly so it should be worth your while. Good luck. I also think that your buddy could make a good argument that by allowing him to continue his activity for 3 years they were causing him unnecessary hardship especially since it was obvious he didn't know what he was doing wrong. Criminals do not tend to post it on their Facebook or make videos for TH-cam for the public to see and draw attention to their illegal activities. 👍
If you was a law enforcement officer criminal post illegal activity on the internet everyday their not the smartest they thought they weren’t going to be caught ignorance isn’t a defense buddy you win some and lose some. 28 years in law enforcement 🤔🤔
They have that proof. In a smaller fine like that pay it and learn from it, and move on. The friend just on how far back, I'd be in that courtroom fast. DNR dont mess around they prove it then roll with it. I have seen charters hit with over 50K in fines.
I agreed that going to court would be worthwhile. You committed a crime however, you did your due diligence and were under the assumption that you were acting within the law. As you stated that you looked it up and saw that there wasn’t anything posted. Go to court and plead “guilty with an explanation”. Tell the judge just what you said here. I work in the jails and courts. I have witnessed those that give as good an explanation as you did here get a vast reduction in the fine or probation. Good luck, Cole.
ABSOLUTELY!! If these "public servants" had what they needed to issue citations, they wouldn't be knocking on your door wanting you to incriminate yourself by answering questions.
American law enforcement has become tyrannical to the point they are more like the Nazi Gestpho. We have no freedom anymore, everything is regulated and we are forced to pay fines for licenses and then we are harassed while trying to enjoy the privilege we already paid for and if you make a mistake you get another fine or jail time. Its ridiculous, this is what a police state is people. We don't live in America anymore because America and freedom do not exist
By the Game Warden not immediately confronting the people of committing a violation the first time and allowing it to continue, in the case of killing fish.Then they are also guilty of the same violation in being accessories of the fact of allowing more fish to be killed or caught.
Here in Wisconsin they watched my buddies hop from spot to spot all day long for like 12 hrs and waited until they were done fishing to finally pop em for keeping over limit. This is law enforcement we're talking about. They dont actually care about serving and protecting, they care about serving the state money
Possum Sheriff's strike at 1 of the most wholesome fishermen I've ever watched. Cole, I really feel for you and your buddy. I'm 3rd generation commercial fisherman and I've met a few real pieces of crap wearing badges. But I think that these guys take the prize!
Cole, I was in law enforcement for about seven years back in the 80’s and your friends cases of repeated violations should probably be fought out in court… an officer on our department witnessed someone being disorderly, but the officer did not arrest that person for his actions at that time. Later during the same day the same officer saw this person being disorderly again and the officer arrested him. The defendant was found not guilty - why? His defense attorney argued that if that the first time didn’t warrant an arrest - and the actions was the same - then the second time didn’t warrant an arrest either. The judge agreed and threw the case out! Of course this was over 40+ years ago, and in another state (Indiana) but a judge might be sympathetic knowing that the game wardens let people keep unknowingly breaking the law and didn’t stop them….you know - protecting our resources? They let everyone keep breaking the law until the government could make bigger $$$$! That is wrong!
Yes, it's true that ignorance is not an excuse before the law, but letting someone go for three years and then and then tagging them isn't right either. Cole and his friends should all take it to court together.
@@groscoe83 well if that’s what you think….you can go back in time and tell that to the judge that ruled in the case situation that I mentioned in my comment - but I think you’ll have to dig him up first. 🤣
Looks like you have a big disison to make: either forget fame and fortune making videos and posting them on U-Tube or quit fishing. Decide which is your greater passion and proceed from there. This U-Tube craze has put thousands of people in trouble with the law it's unreal. Trust me when I tell you that law enforcement keeps a close eye on the videos people post.
Thank you all for your supportive comments and honest feedback on this situation! As mentioned in video, I decided it would be most cost effective for me if I just paid the fine and moved on. We've noticed comments about wanting to aid in financial assistance to help my friend cover his ticket. That's really generous and if so, the easiest way is to hit the $Thanks button below the video. I'll be responding to anyone who does! All funds received will directly be going towards alleviating some major financial stress by paying for my friend's ticket with full transparency!
I do think the fine world be reduced if you just showed up in court and hit on the high points like signage and things like that. I think if you got a lawyer involved you would get off but the lawyer would probably be ore than a $1000.
Terrible situation. Sounds like "policing for profit" by the game wardens. No signage or special regulations readily available for public to be informed. If all 30 or whatever number of individuals petition the courts on the matter, might get fines dismissed or reduced, refunded. May want to see if you can get a free consultation visit to an attorney. Bottom line, sorry this happened to you and your friends. Here in Michigan the DNR means damn near Russian lol.
I would go straight to the district attorney's office in the main court house in the municipality of the ticket's . tell him your story. Ask him how he can help . Im willing to bet a couple grand your case will never make it to court.
The statute of limitations don’t really matter, because they can not by law set back and not take action against them until They decide oh now we can charge them so we can make this amount of money. That’s BS I’m a deputy sheriff and my brother is a game warden as well but we are in NC and we both watched this together hanging out today and both agree this is overreach and they can’t not do this. They can get it thrown out completely because of the BS they did by waiting to fine/charge everyone 3 years later after knowing if the wrongs committed. You can’t just set back and wait just to rack up fines that’s illegal in all 50 states
@@triplehfarmsllc7348 You state you are a LEO and "they can't do.." Why? You understand how law and prosecutions work I would expect. So what is the law preventing this, what mechanism exists within law enforcement that stops or prohibits this. Let's look at a warrantless seizure of a person. What mechanism stops an officer from making a seizure without sufficient cause? It cannot be the third party warrant requirement spelled out in the fourth amendment, police routinely seize people without a warrant. It certainly cannot be the probable cause standard required for a warrant because the finding of probable cause is a judicial determination not an enforcement action. In fact you know you can seize a person by force without even believing probable cause might exist. Reasonable Articulable Suspicion is all you need and you are the only person who can determine if it exists at the time. So RAS is by practical definition, whatever you believe it to be that you will act upon. The court might later say you did or did not have RAS, but that did not stop you from doing what you did. The suspect may be dead and even the shooting might be justified but completely based upon an unlawful warrantless seizure without even RAS. Does that mean you "CAN'T" do it? I would bet you have done it more than once, made a seizure where there was no warrant, no funding of PC and where your interpretation of RAS was not reasonable. But nothing happened to you legally, you were not arrested, charged, prosecuted, convicted and sentenced for the criminal act you committed. Fact is, RAS is unconstitutional, created by the courts not the constitution and defies the reasonable requirement of the fourth amendment. In most honest people's opinions. Now let's consider undercover work where undercover officers are actually present and complicit in crimes for years while they build their case and gather evidence. Do these not happen? Or let's get closer to home. An officer witnessed a traffic infraction, evidence of DUI etc. Do officers routinely follow a speeding car while they run the plate or do they immediately execute a PIT to stop the driver? Do they pull the person over at the first possible sign of DUI or do they follow for a bit to get dashcam video as evidence? There is no law prohibiting the state from waiting is there? And what legal mechanism stops them from doing what they please in this regards? Are they going to arrest themselves and prosecute themselves? Not likely unless it is political. Finally, just because the evidence goes back three years does not mean the states knowledge of the violation goes back three years. They may have just become aware based upon the recent videos and upon investigation found videos from years ago, Facebook posts from years back. The state may have had recorded evidence but until recently had not been able to identify the suspects until the suspects self identified. Like finding bodies for years and being certain there is a serial killer, but not having an identity, no one to arrest. You could arrest everyone so you know you got the right person or you might have to wait until you find evidence tying a specific individual to the crime. Illegally catching fish you are legally allowed to catch is not exactly a public safety or public welfare issue of high priority. You say they can't do something, maybe they did it maybe they did not. Point is, what makes you believe they can't and what stops them from doing it. You can't bust into a person's home and make an arrest without a warrant or exigent circumstances. But I can show you a dozen videos where cops do exactly that and few if any are later charged. But not one was stopped by even a fellow officer. Municipalities pay out millions every year for things agents of the state "can't " do but do anyway. The second amendment has no exceptions, it is very clear and simple. It says YOU officer, cannot infringe upon the people's right to keep and bear arms. But YOU enforce laws that do infringe. The only mechanism we have to uphold the constitution is YOU, not the courts who have done everything to erode and pervert the constitution. Not the Congress who seeks more power to govern more efficiently. Not the president who signs the laws. Ultimately the only protection is from officers not enforcing bad unconstitutional law, using RAS, violating the rights and freedoms of the people. Because the only other possibility is the people refusing to obey your unconstitutional demands and commands, refusing to recognize your authority and position. But you do use RAS, you do enforce unconstitutional laws and doctrines. You do look for excuses around the constitution rather than standing for it. Otherwise you would not be employed, you would have quit or been fired. Count up the number of harms done to people, everything from a *minor* deprivation of liberty, " a temporary arrest" a financial fine. Every encounter you have ever had with a civilian acting in your official capacity. And then count up the number of benefits/good things you have done that you absolutely could not have done as a human being, things only a cop could do. Weigh those two sides and tell me exactly why you are a cop. Is it to help people, to do good for the community or is it to impose upon people to whatever extent you are told and allowed to impose, for whatever reasons you are given? Would you arrest a felon with a weapon? Would you use legal force to detain over suspicious activity if you felt your life might be at risk? Would you arrest officers who stood by for 77+ minutes while children were being shot or would you have followed orders and stood by, even stopped parents and civilians from interceding in the murders. They can't just sit by and not arrest people over fishing violations but they can sit by and watch children get shot without any legal mechanism preventing it? You might want to get a reality check, do a moral inventory and reconsider your choice of profession. Because that was not a very well thought out comment. And as Law Enforcement you are really in no position to make it. Just my thoughts.
Hey guys. I live on the otherside of Beaverfork in Conway. My old man and sweet mommma live on lake Fork. He has been a guide on the lake almost since it opened. He specializes in catching. From live bream to catch monster bass, to live scoping crappie, to thump sticking for whites and hybrids/strippers. Anyway. He just loves watching you guys. He’s always asking me if I know where yall are fishing at. Sometimes I do sometimes I don’t. I’m sure you avoid most invites. He would be so excited if yall just showed up at his boat one morning. I’d take care of all the room, board, license, food, gas eveything. Just to see the look on his face plus content for yall. Hit me up if it sounds like something you’d be interested in. He caters to families and children too.
Ur right buddy it's wrong and you are a real one for posting this. I just watch y'all's crappie videos because it amazes me how y'all can catch them compared to here.
If they really cared about the fish, they would have educated you immediately. They only care about harassing people and justifying their jobs. So sad.
You idiot if it wasn't for game wardens there will not be any game there would be no fish all the commercial fishermen and Trappers would have done wiped them all out just like they had at the turn of the 20th century
Your “friends” gave you up. They actually volunteered you! Not only that, they showed them the videos as well. How would Law Enforcement even know who you are unless someone told them. They are not your friends, they got caught and dragged you into this.
I thought the same thing lol I was thinking damn once his friend said "they told me not to tell you" hit with dang he probably name dropped Cole not on purpose but just out shock from how big his ticket was n BAM they got what they needed
I just took up fishing to teach my young son and daughter. I'm new to watching fishing on youtube. This came on my algo, and I liked and subscribed. This video will make you break even with people like me that are now aware of your channel
You should have gone to court and told the judge the same thing you just told us. For them to watch your friend for 3 years is absolutely ridiculous!!! They should have put a stop to it the first time it happened. I couldn't imagine getting a $20,000.00 ticket for fishing. Like you said, that could be life changing for people. I know there's no way I could pay a fine like that! I'm glad you did make this video. It may save someone from having this happen to them!!! Take care Cole!!! Love you guys!!! ❤️🤗
1st NEVER open the door for law enforcement. If they have a warrant, they will let themselves in. You have the most legal protections inside your home. 2nd NEVER talk to law enforcement without a lawyer present. Not even small talk. The less you say, the better off you will be. 3rd These apply to everyone, innocent or guilty. Don't do it ever. 4th Always video your interactions with government employees, especially law enforcement. Don't take my word for it, ask a lawyer. They will tell you the same.
Fight this in court and ask the judge for financial compensation resulting from definitely being done wrong by Game Warden's who done all kinds of Shady wrong bullshit.
@BerkleysFishinBuddy yea they do. They can't violate your 4th amendment just because they're "fish and game". They don't need a warrant to be on your property, but they definitely need a warrant to come into your house without probable cause. You don't have to answer your door and you don't have to talk to them.
In my opinion this video is the right thing , they are obviously watching it . They know there is thousands of people watching it . They don't look like the good guy in the publics eye . And you removed yourself from public retaliation from them by paying the fine .
I just saw this video and decided to check it out. I can only imagine how shocked you must have been to have those wardens show up 9 months after that fishing trip. I agree 100% that we are all capable of making mistakes and inadvertently breaking the law. It sounds like even the wardens weren't very clear about the definition of "dam" or "spillway." I sincerely appreciate your integrity regarding this entire situation. I will be subscribing to your channel. Best to just put this one behind you and keep doing your thing.
I agree with you if you're doing something illegal it would be their job to cite you for the illegal activities not to let you keep continuing doing the same thing. It's almost as if they intentionally ignored their responsibilities as a game warden just to raise the amount of fine potentially to make themselves look better in someone's eyes . For failing to do their job to the best of their abilities and for robbing the public they should be reprimanded and suspended without pay for a while because you know this isn't the first time that they have done this.
I watch a lot of utube videos and some people actually show themselves doing things that are really questionable and I always think to myself they probably shouldn't show that. Yes! The law is watching all sorts of social media. One of the reasons i watch your videos is because you are honest and follow the rules. Good luck fighting this and keep making videos.
Thank you for the advice because I’m from around that area and I’ve fished it my entire life and never knew this hate to see this happen but really appreciate you sharing the story
I watched a game warden turkey hunt before season was open. During gun deer season he gave my friend a ticket for trespassing and poaching because he got lost and crossed onto someone else’s property. He even showed the warden where there was no fence and wasn’t any signs. I also seen wardens write tickets for people hunting a restricted no hunting waterfowl area and the wardens came back and hunted it themselves.
I was impressed that you took responsibility for a mistake you made. You raised a question about their compileing data for 3 years before ticketing you. I don't think that their motivations were about stopping people from snagging Paddlefish, they were motivated simply by money. I really can't think of any other reason to wait 3 years before acting.
There is a specific snag and release season for paddlefish in North Dakota FYI. Maybe where you are at you are not supposed to release anything snagged but in ND any "foul hooked" fish must be immediately released.
If there's no indemnity clause I would be surprised. Fisherman need to get together to make a clause that prevents wardens and officers from accumulation of fines. They waited purposely to get more money. This in itself should be illegal.
Please make a video of this location. Boat ramp, no regulations posted to warn other fishermen. Anything that can educate others to avoid this entrapment.
I'm so sorry Cole that you had to go through that. You would think that they (the officers) were infringing on your rights. Not cool of the officers. Definitely sounds shady. Anyway, love your videos, whether they're good or bad. I'll back you and your family up any day. Love you guys and a Happy Year. I'm celebrating my birthday today, which is the 12th of January. Just turned 57 yrs young❤❤😮😮
If they really don't want these people to catch certain fish they need to post signs. To know that these people are illegally catching fish BUT continue to allow them to.... that's WRONG. Jay... please take this to court. Tell the judge that you couldn't find any laws on it so you determined that it was legal. They NEED to post signs to make it very clear to everyone what is legal and illegal. All of you need to take this to court!!!!
First of all, I LOVE all of y’all’s stuff! And I would take the argument that those spillway pipes are part of a dam to court. Arkansas law is very clear that snagging is legal “within 100 yards of a dam” (I’m an Arkansas resident as well). Also. If they wroth the tickets for the day the video posted; unless you posted day of which is not normal then I’m pretty sure the tickets are invalid. If you were not there on the dates the tickets were written then you could not have violated on that day.
That’s a dirty way for a law enforcement officer to entrap someone for a lot of money. I agree they should have fined your friends for the first offense end of story. They just ran the bill up. That’s not upholding the law but using authority in an abusive way. Sorry for your pain. Keep those videos rolling and put this behind you.
Of course you go to court ! If they have been monitoring this area for several years while the law was being violated and instead of enforcement of the law that is entrapment. If there is no signage after several years of this law being violated and and fish and wildlife is aware of this and instead of posting the law about this law that is entrapment. The judge I believe would agree with me and admonish the department for their tactics and void those tickets.
Took the words right out of my mouth. No other way to put it but entrapment. They are being shady & not doing what their job scope should entail. Their job scope is to enforce rules so that the species of fish continue to thrive not to line the pockets of the entity they belong to.
Tough lesson to learn, but this also could have been avoided with a quick phone call to your state agency or game warden for the area if there was any uncertainty or "I think I'm legal" feelings. I have a great grasp of my state's regulations and still call to ask when I'm doing something different/uncommon and want to ensure compliance.
I am for the game and fish commission (but not in this case) I think you should all get together and file a lawsuit about this it is just wrong to watch someone over 3 years. its ok to have a fine if your doing something wrong but letting it add up instead of saying something just is not right.
The regulations are difficult to find despite having the book, app, and online access. We called AGFC due to being nonresidents and not being able to find the rod limit anywhere for shore and boat fishing on the Arkansas River (away from the dam). My call was directed to the headquarters in Little Rock, and they had me on hold for over 15 minutes. I explained not being able to find this info in their regulations or on their app - they then told me they had to call someone else to find out the answer. Apparently there is no limit. This information should be easy to access, and even the headquarters couldn't easily find it. They definitely need to make the regulations more accessible and more clear - most anglers don't want to break the law, but it seems like they're setting us up to fail.
I am so sorry. And at Xmas! Wow. I feel like you. They should have brought it to their attention at the first place. That isn't right. But thank you for sharing. I hate to say it. But you guys are part of our family. I like to know how your family is doing. Jay is so on target on not freaking out. She is a keeper!!❤
1. Didn't know the regs for the body of water 2. Kept the fish you DID KNOW you weren't allowed to take with that method 3. Posted the evidence on the internet 4. Tried to say "well, the locals do it" as an excuse after getting fined Enjoy those tickets! You earned em!
A guy I worked with a long time ago used to go snagging at Ky Lake Dam all the time. Their target was spoonbills if I remember correctly and it was totally legal in KY. He came to work one night with 2 black eyes and bruises all over his face. Turns out he snagged something coming thru the dam. It bent his rod over, the line snapped, and the rod smacked him between the eyes. It knocked him out and he fell on the rip rap. When he woke up, there was a guy trying to help him and he had blood everywhere. All of us work buddies got a good laugh out of it since he was at work and okay. He was back down there the next weekend doing it again though.
Also another work buddy and I went duck hunting once in a slough. It was wood duck and teal season. A warden stood in the woods spying on us. He had his limit in wood ducks, but not teal. He shot at a group and missed. The game warden finally made himself known. He asked what he shot at and answered he was shooting at teal, because he didn’t have his limit on teal. Warden told him he shot into woodies and not teal. One persons word against the other. Was told ignorance was no excuse. He got a $300 ticket for “attempting to take more than his limit”.
Hehehe. I pulled a step deck and hauled a lot of over size loads. Arkansas is the only state that requires you to sign your permit in red ink. They give you a provision sheet with instructions that tell you to sign in red,but if you don't read that one line it was a $275.00 fine unless the first words out of your mouth were "I didn't have a red pen".
Little Rock, and thus all parts state govt, are controlled by uber-corrupt Leftists. I live in the north-central Twin Lakes area, and haven't heard of many abuses of power here. That could change on a dime, if agents who have worked in the area for decades are replaced by indoctrinated Leftists straight out of college, who know nothing about anything (other than politics).
I don't know where you went wrong. Filming and publishing snagging a fish you aren't supposed to snag, talking to law enforcement trying to fine you, or telling your story online before going to court.
When snaggin' you have no control over what you snag... zip, zero, nada !!! If snagging is legal in any way at all... there must be an 'out' for snagging a game fish by accident... and if you have to 'keep' it by law... what is the remedy???. Otherwise it's literally Russian Roulette. That's insane. Get a jury of your peers... Cole, I'll be praying and I'm sure I'm not alone. We love you guys channel, your integrity is never in question. Years ago my best friend was on a the Dam at Hula in Northern OK. in February. He would take a little black jig and a heavy weight on big tackle and cast waaaaay out below the dam. Then very slowly retrieve the jig across the bottom. The idea is a big catfish might not be hungry to go on the hunt... Like if we were sitting in a Lazy Boy after Thanksgiving dinner... we're not hungry... BUT... if you saw an M&M laying on the coffee table.... you'd probably take a nibble... So, he sometimes caught 20-30lb flatheads on a little black jig if he got lucky enough to drag one in front of one... Anyway, the Game Warden drove over and walked up to him on the Dam and engaged in some 'friendly' conversation.... 😎 asking to see his rigging. They'd been watching him with binoculars ... after he showed them his line and rig and explained the plan... they were satisfied because it was just a crappie jig and an oversized lead weight instead of a 3" treble hook on a 9'surf rod. But it was spooky for a few minutes.
Based on the length of time they waited to give you tickets, I am inclined to go to court because I feel that these officers are basically entrapping not only you but your friends as well!!! Come on, if they were watching your friend for 3 years, something sounds real fishy, (no pun intended). I would get a lawyer and I would hope your friends do the same because something has to be done to keep them from doing this to other fishermen!!! Make these officers explain in court why they waited 9 months in your case and 3 years in your friends case!! I for one would love to hear how they justify doing what they did!!! You may get the fine reduced, who knows!!! Also, can they take your fishing license away for this?? That would really suck!!! Anyway I vote you go to court!!! Don't let them win!!!
I am 72 and I have had about 8 interactions with LEO's and game wardens in my life. I sincerely wonder if applicants for LEO and Wardens are picked by their ability to "not care", but simply go by the strict rule of the law. How else do explain the lack of care for wildlife (watching violations pile up without informing or stopping someone) and their simultaneous zeal for administrating "justice"? No doubt there are good LEO's, but these bad ones are the ones you remember.
Hang in there, Cole. You’re a good guy who I think shows a lot of respect to rules and nature in general. I hate snagging. I hate paddle fish fishing. That’s just me. But I do agree they should be more legit and put the rules in obvious places. Then again, you already know my feelings about our state’s game and fish commission. ✌️🥴
If you have doubts about legalities and can't find anything in the regulations, just call the DNR or Game and Fish or whatever they're called in your area. They should be able to tell you if you're legal or not to do what you intend to do.
From a retired state game warden. The game & fish laws is becoming so complicated these days, that you almost have to have a double brief case carrying attorney with you to go down on the creek bank and catch a mess of fish. I began speaking out in season and bag limit meetings perhaps 20 years ago almost. After I retired, I had to call my former, still working partner, on half a dozen occasions since I was no longer in the inner circle of information. Hunting and fishing guides are not written in easy to understand form and their organization leaves much to be desired. While game and fish laws are strict liability laws (no criminal intent needs to be proved) I'd take it to court and explain the circumstances to the general sessions judge and work on convincing him that there was no criminal intent on your part; a judge is human just like us. We all make careless mistakes and overlooks little things. If you feel strongly the regulation were not written in complete form, or the officers were making a mountain out of a mole hill, then you have the right to have your case turned over to the grand jury and/or a trial by a jury of your peers.
I have a ton of questions here in upstate SC! I write them all down, and then just call a warden and talk to him for an hour or more and have them all answered. Thats the fastest and surest method I found. Blessings
I have friends in Indiana that were snagging Asian carp. They were given hefty fines and court dates. An invasive fish can get American anglers hefty fines!
Possum cops have a job to do but they should have confronted your friend before 3 years and let him know he was in the wrong instead of sting operation. Also the laws can be vague and difficult to interpret sometimes.
So sorry that you had to go through this. It’s embarrassing and very stressful. A warning would have been the right thing for them to do but as I’ve seen on other channels, some cities are out for the money. You’d probably be guilty anyway in court and then you’d be paying court costs. I think you did right. Pay it and move on.
That is entrapment. If your seen doing something illegal, you should be warned or ticketed immediately. The wardens are suppose to be there to change behavior. They chose to set you up instead. I'd go to court with all the fishermen involved in a class action suit. If the fine is life changing for you and Jay, ask us viewers for help.
I think it's from someone watching his content that called them. I've seen condescending comments from the same person against Cole's fishing practices, cant recall what video I think it was him throwing fish back in the lake that was draining not sure but this guy was going off.
Wow thats crazy! Sorry to hear man! Sounds like baiting a person in a way at that point?.. Not sure i would even fish there ever again if it were me.. But i have heard paddlefish are protected. Good luck fellas! Geez! Fish on!
I don’t think it’s about the right or wrong. I think it’s about the way they went about it. Something is not ethical about it and you all, including you and your friends all of your friends need to stand up together and do something about this. Think of what they’re brewing the other people next make the difference. You’re a good man then don’t you forget it❤
That is 10 kinds of effed up. As others have said you probably, and I would have gone to court and argued my case there. You have given me something to research in my law library. I know the feds play their own game with their own rules, and I have seen many cases of them doing things that may not be exactly legal, because they figure people wont fight them. I'm sorry that this happened to you and your friends, and I'll let you know what I might uncover.
Cole, I did some research and found this concerning the statute of limitations on misdemeanor crimes in Arkansas. This may help your buddy. 👍 Time Limits for Criminal Charges in Arkansas In Arkansas, misdemeanors generally carry a 1-year statute of limitations. Felonies are more varied, with no time limit for many felonies. There is a 6-year limit for Class Y and A felonies, and a 3-year limit for Class B, C, D, and unclassified felonies.
#1 I would've got an attorney before I paid their fine #2 What these officer's did was against the Law, after 2 years those infractions would not count,just the last year would have counted! #3 i would've told them prove it. #4 They should lose their job for it. #5 I don't snag fish on purpose.
Camera's are a form of SEARCH and could be argued as an ILLEGAL SEARCH since there is NO WARRANT. Burden of proof is on them. Go to court and ask for a jury trial. The jury of your peers (other hunters and fishermen) will understand.
For your legal costs. I don't think that they should have treated you located you like that!!!!!
Thank you so much for your support! It's such a crazy ordeal that is going to really going to negatively impact my friends livelihood if not overturned in court. Fish on!
So, what were you supposed to do? Were you supposed to cut the line to release the fish? Did the game warden even explain?
No u don't want to talk. Why don't people understand. You don't answer or converse w them period bro
Youre not very bright the case isn't over don't talk about it on here genius
I retired after 28 years in law enforcement, my advice would be definitely go to court and ask for leniency on the fine from the judge. One thing that they have to prove is the fish was actually snagged and actually a paddlefish and it wasn't some dead fish that you found washed up on the bank. I'm sure you probably already admitted that you snagged a paddle fish. Remember that they have to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. Many times the judge will reduce the fine significantly so it should be worth your while. Good luck. I also think that your buddy could make a good argument that by allowing him to continue his activity for 3 years they were causing him unnecessary hardship especially since it was obvious he didn't know what he was doing wrong. Criminals do not tend to post it on their Facebook or make videos for TH-cam for the public to see and draw attention to their illegal activities. 👍
If you was a law enforcement officer criminal post illegal activity on the internet everyday their not the smartest they thought they weren’t going to be caught ignorance isn’t a defense buddy you win some and lose some. 28 years in law enforcement 🤔🤔
They have that proof. In a smaller fine like that pay it and learn from it, and move on. The friend just on how far back, I'd be in that courtroom fast. DNR dont mess around they prove it then roll with it. I have seen charters hit with over 50K in fines.
Just being a cop and supporting the billionaires makes you scum
I agreed that going to court would be worthwhile. You committed a crime however, you did your due diligence and were under the assumption that you were acting within the law. As you stated that you looked it up and saw that there wasn’t anything posted. Go to court and plead “guilty with an explanation”. Tell the judge just what you said here. I work in the jails and courts. I have witnessed those that give as good an explanation as you did here get a vast reduction in the fine or probation. Good luck, Cole.
Couldn't you found a better job or that's all you could do?
Best advice...don't talk to law enforcement because they're not your friend.
ABSOLUTELY!! If these "public servants" had what they needed to issue citations, they wouldn't be knocking on your door wanting you to incriminate yourself by answering questions.
Consider the possibility that the wardens are lying about having cameras. 20 grand in tickets, I would definitely consult a lawyer.
They dont, Fish and game mean business, and they really showed the proof themselves. If it was only on the word of the warden yes fight it.
They are legally allowed to lie to you until they get to court! Agree
I would have went to court,seems to me that it’s a situation of entrapment,no signs!They are the ones that are doing illegal law fair!
@@Sea-cucumber1151No, they are NOT LEGALLY allowed to lie; ever. That would fall under entrapment
American law enforcement has become tyrannical to the point they are more like the Nazi Gestpho. We have no freedom anymore, everything is regulated and we are forced to pay fines for licenses and then we are harassed while trying to enjoy the privilege we already paid for and if you make a mistake you get another fine or jail time. Its ridiculous, this is what a police state is people. We don't live in America anymore because America and freedom do not exist
If they knew people were breaking the law on the first offense, but did nothing and allowed it to continue, they become complicit in the crime.
Go to court. Ask the officers why they allowed an " indangered/protected species" to become even more so.
Not only should you fight this in court, you should take your story to the local news.
Thanks! Now I hope you take me catch some crappie.
@robertwest6044 I can't help but wonder why your donations and comment didn't get a like or response..... SMH
By the Game Warden not immediately confronting the people of committing a violation the first time and allowing it to continue, in the case of killing fish.Then they are also guilty of the same violation in being accessories of the fact of allowing more fish to be killed or caught.
I agree. If a game warden is watching this "violation" continue by several people, I too regard the warden's behavior as callous and complicit.
Here in Wisconsin they watched my buddies hop from spot to spot all day long for like 12 hrs and waited until they were done fishing to finally pop em for keeping over limit. This is law enforcement we're talking about. They dont actually care about serving and protecting, they care about serving the state money
Exactly! The Game Wardens need to be fired! Neglected in doing their job and protecting wildlife!
It's called building a case
@@rob136916they had a case once the had pictures or a video, they were stacking the deck for a big pay out.
Possum Sheriff's strike at 1 of the most wholesome fishermen I've ever watched. Cole, I really feel for you and your buddy. I'm 3rd generation commercial fisherman and I've met a few real pieces of crap wearing badges. But I think that these guys take the prize!
Cole, I was in law enforcement for about seven years back in the 80’s and your friends cases of repeated violations should probably be fought out in court… an officer on our department witnessed someone being disorderly, but the officer did not arrest that person for his actions at that time. Later during the same day the same officer saw this person being disorderly again and the officer arrested him. The defendant was found not guilty - why? His defense attorney argued that if that the first time didn’t warrant an arrest - and the actions was the same - then the second time didn’t warrant an arrest either. The judge agreed and threw the case out! Of course this was over 40+ years ago, and in another state (Indiana) but a judge might be sympathetic knowing that the game wardens let people keep unknowingly breaking the law and didn’t stop them….you know - protecting our resources? They let everyone keep breaking the law until the government could make bigger $$$$! That is wrong!
@@davidharrison6128 ignorance of the law isn’t a defense they knew just thought they weren’t going to get caught your analogy is way off
Yes, it's true that ignorance is not an excuse before the law, but letting someone go for three years and then and then tagging them isn't right either. Cole and his friends should all take it to court together.
@@groscoe83 well if that’s what you think….you can go back in time and tell that to the judge that ruled in the case situation that I mentioned in my comment - but I think you’ll have to dig him up first. 🤣
Hes been caught that's all next time play by the rules and you won't be paying fines
Looks like you have a big disison to make: either forget fame and fortune making videos and posting them on U-Tube or quit fishing. Decide which is your greater passion and proceed from there. This U-Tube craze has put thousands of people in trouble with the law it's unreal. Trust me when I tell you that law enforcement keeps a close eye on the videos people post.
Thank you all for your supportive comments and honest feedback on this situation! As mentioned in video, I decided it would be most cost effective for me if I just paid the fine and moved on. We've noticed comments about wanting to aid in financial assistance to help my friend cover his ticket. That's really generous and if so, the easiest way is to hit the $Thanks button below the video. I'll be responding to anyone who does! All funds received will directly be going towards alleviating some major financial stress by paying for my friend's ticket with full transparency!
I do think the fine world be reduced if you just showed up in court and hit on the high points like signage and things like that. I think if you got a lawyer involved you would get off but the lawyer would probably be ore than a $1000.
Sad to hear you paid. If unjust, fighting it is the only way this doesn’t happen to anyone else.
Terrible situation. Sounds like "policing for profit" by the game wardens. No signage or special regulations readily available for public to be informed. If all 30 or whatever number of individuals petition the courts on the matter, might get fines dismissed or reduced, refunded. May want to see if you can get a free consultation visit to an attorney.
Bottom line, sorry this happened to you and your friends. Here in Michigan the DNR means damn near Russian lol.
I would go straight to the district attorney's office in the main court house in the municipality of the ticket's . tell him your story. Ask him how he can help . Im willing to bet a couple grand your case will never make it to court.
Should never pay for something your not guilty for
I would get a lawyer and find out what is the statute of limitation to go back. 3 years for four fish sounds crazy
The statute of limitations don’t really matter, because they can not by law set back and not take action against them until
They decide oh now we can charge them so we can make this amount of money. That’s BS I’m a deputy sheriff and my brother is a game warden as well but we are in NC and we both watched this together hanging out today and both agree this is overreach and they can’t not do this. They can get it thrown out completely because of the BS they did by waiting to fine/charge everyone 3 years later after knowing if the wrongs committed. You can’t just set back and wait just to rack up fines that’s illegal in all 50 states
@@triplehfarmsllc7348
You state you are a LEO and "they can't do.."
Why?
You understand how law and prosecutions work I would expect. So what is the law preventing this, what mechanism exists within law enforcement that stops or prohibits this.
Let's look at a warrantless seizure of a person. What mechanism stops an officer from making a seizure without sufficient cause?
It cannot be the third party warrant requirement spelled out in the fourth amendment, police routinely seize people without a warrant.
It certainly cannot be the probable cause standard required for a warrant because the finding of probable cause is a judicial determination not an enforcement action.
In fact you know you can seize a person by force without even believing probable cause might exist.
Reasonable Articulable Suspicion is all you need and you are the only person who can determine if it exists at the time.
So RAS is by practical definition, whatever you believe it to be that you will act upon.
The court might later say you did or did not have RAS, but that did not stop you from doing what you did.
The suspect may be dead and even the shooting might be justified but completely based upon an unlawful warrantless seizure without even RAS.
Does that mean you "CAN'T" do it?
I would bet you have done it more than once, made a seizure where there was no warrant, no funding of PC and where your interpretation of RAS was not reasonable.
But nothing happened to you legally, you were not arrested, charged, prosecuted, convicted and sentenced for the criminal act you committed.
Fact is, RAS is unconstitutional, created by the courts not the constitution and defies the reasonable requirement of the fourth amendment. In most honest people's opinions.
Now let's consider undercover work where undercover officers are actually present and complicit in crimes for years while they build their case and gather evidence.
Do these not happen?
Or let's get closer to home. An officer witnessed a traffic infraction, evidence of DUI etc. Do officers routinely follow a speeding car while they run the plate or do they immediately execute a PIT to stop the driver?
Do they pull the person over at the first possible sign of DUI or do they follow for a bit to get dashcam video as evidence?
There is no law prohibiting the state from waiting is there?
And what legal mechanism stops them from doing what they please in this regards?
Are they going to arrest themselves and prosecute themselves?
Not likely unless it is political.
Finally, just because the evidence goes back three years does not mean the states knowledge of the violation goes back three years.
They may have just become aware based upon the recent videos and upon investigation found videos from years ago, Facebook posts from years back.
The state may have had recorded evidence but until recently had not been able to identify the suspects until the suspects self identified.
Like finding bodies for years and being certain there is a serial killer, but not having an identity, no one to arrest. You could arrest everyone so you know you got the right person or you might have to wait until you find evidence tying a specific individual to the crime.
Illegally catching fish you are legally allowed to catch is not exactly a public safety or public welfare issue of high priority.
You say they can't do something, maybe they did it maybe they did not.
Point is, what makes you believe they can't and what stops them from doing it.
You can't bust into a person's home and make an arrest without a warrant or exigent circumstances.
But I can show you a dozen videos where cops do exactly that and few if any are later charged. But not one was stopped by even a fellow officer.
Municipalities pay out millions every year for things agents of the state "can't " do but do anyway.
The second amendment has no exceptions, it is very clear and simple.
It says YOU officer, cannot infringe upon the people's right to keep and bear arms. But YOU enforce laws that do infringe.
The only mechanism we have to uphold the constitution is YOU, not the courts who have done everything to erode and pervert the constitution.
Not the Congress who seeks more power to govern more efficiently.
Not the president who signs the laws.
Ultimately the only protection is from officers not enforcing bad unconstitutional law, using RAS, violating the rights and freedoms of the people.
Because the only other possibility is the people refusing to obey your unconstitutional demands and commands, refusing to recognize your authority and position.
But you do use RAS, you do enforce unconstitutional laws and doctrines.
You do look for excuses around the constitution rather than standing for it. Otherwise you would not be employed, you would have quit or been fired.
Count up the number of harms done to people, everything from a *minor* deprivation of liberty, " a temporary arrest" a financial fine. Every encounter you have ever had with a civilian acting in your official capacity.
And then count up the number of benefits/good things you have done that you absolutely could not have done as a human being, things only a cop could do.
Weigh those two sides and tell me exactly why you are a cop.
Is it to help people, to do good for the community or is it to impose upon people to whatever extent you are told and allowed to impose, for whatever reasons you are given?
Would you arrest a felon with a weapon? Would you use legal force to detain over suspicious activity if you felt your life might be at risk?
Would you arrest officers who stood by for 77+ minutes while children were being shot or would you have followed orders and stood by, even stopped parents and civilians from interceding in the murders.
They can't just sit by and not arrest people over fishing violations but they can sit by and watch children get shot without any legal mechanism preventing it?
You might want to get a reality check, do a moral inventory and reconsider your choice of profession.
Because that was not a very well thought out comment. And as Law Enforcement you are really in no position to make it.
Just my thoughts.
Hey guys. I live on the otherside of Beaverfork in Conway. My old man and sweet mommma live on lake Fork. He has been a guide on the lake almost since it opened. He specializes in catching. From live bream to catch monster bass, to live scoping crappie, to thump sticking for whites and hybrids/strippers. Anyway. He just loves watching you guys. He’s always asking me if I know where yall are fishing at. Sometimes I do sometimes I don’t. I’m sure you avoid most invites. He would be so excited if yall just showed up at his boat one morning. I’d take care of all the room, board, license, food, gas eveything. Just to see the look on his face plus content for yall. Hit me up if it sounds like something you’d be interested in. He caters to families and children too.
Are you asking to take your dad Paddlefish snagging with them? 😂😂
All you guys need to do hire a good lawyer and fight these two out of line Gamewardens
For your friend's fine. Sorry about all of this! Love your channel.
This is such a generous offering, thank you so much! What type of content do you enjoy the most on our channel?
@@COLE_and_JAY I primarily target crappie so I really enjoy that content!
Waiting THREE FRIGGIN' years! Sounds like LAWFARE to me... Goin' after the little guy just tryin' to make a livin'! Fight it buddy!
Exactly.
Ur right buddy it's wrong and you are a real one for posting this. I just watch y'all's crappie videos because it amazes me how y'all can catch them compared to here.
Sad!! Relax, You are NOT A CRIMINAL! We all make Mistakes but this is Entrapment, with your Friend. We appreciate your content.
yOU ARE A GREAT FAMILY MAN WHO PLAYS BY THE RULES. DON'T LET THIS GET YOU DOWN!
If they really cared about the fish, they would have educated you immediately. They only care about harassing people and justifying their jobs. So sad.
This is hunter harassment, game wardens are lazy and corrupt.
Exactly! That’s a case of entrapment. Probably should go to court. Definitely should have given them a ticket and a warning.
If they really cared about the fish they would have stopped it after the FIRST FISH!
You idiot if it wasn't for game wardens there will not be any game there would be no fish all the commercial fishermen and Trappers would have done wiped them all out just like they had at the turn of the 20th century
I would ask arms family homestead...My God Bless yall 🙏
Your “friends” gave you up. They actually volunteered you! Not only that, they showed them the videos as well. How would Law Enforcement even know who you are unless someone told them. They are not your friends, they got caught and dragged you into this.
I thought the same thing lol I was thinking damn once his friend said "they told me not to tell you" hit with dang he probably name dropped Cole not on purpose but just out shock from how big his ticket was n BAM they got what they needed
Have your day in court. Don't just pay the fine.
Don't pay the fine regardless
I just took up fishing to teach my young son and daughter. I'm new to watching fishing on youtube. This came on my algo, and I liked and subscribed. This video will make you break even with people like me that are now aware of your channel
You should have gone to court and told the judge the same thing you just told us. For them to watch your friend for 3 years is absolutely ridiculous!!! They should have put a stop to it the first time it happened. I couldn't imagine getting a $20,000.00 ticket for fishing. Like you said, that could be life changing for people. I know there's no way I could pay a fine like that! I'm glad you did make this video. It may save someone from having this happen to them!!! Take care Cole!!! Love you guys!!! ❤️🤗
I pray you both go to court and plead your cases.
don't take this lying down Cole . absolutely take this to court !
Money Money Money It's all about the money
Money is just the means to the end - which is POWER.
1st NEVER open the door for law enforcement. If they have a warrant, they will let themselves in. You have the most legal protections inside your home.
2nd NEVER talk to law enforcement without a lawyer present. Not even small talk. The less you say, the better off you will be.
3rd These apply to everyone, innocent or guilty. Don't do it ever.
4th Always video your interactions with government employees, especially law enforcement.
Don't take my word for it, ask a lawyer. They will tell you the same.
Fight this in court and ask the judge for financial compensation resulting from definitely being done wrong by Game Warden's who done all kinds of Shady wrong bullshit.
Fish and Game do not need a warrant in most states.
@@BerkleysFishinBuddy if they don’t need a warrant, I’m definitely not answering the door and never answering questions.
@BerkleysFishinBuddy yea they do. They can't violate your 4th amendment just because they're "fish and game". They don't need a warrant to be on your property, but they definitely need a warrant to come into your house without probable cause. You don't have to answer your door and you don't have to talk to them.
@RiverRat-2112 that's right river rat neve never ever admit that you are guilt even in car accident @cole
In my opinion this video is the right thing , they are obviously watching it . They know there is thousands of people watching it . They don't look like the good guy in the publics eye . And you removed yourself from public retaliation from them by paying the fine .
If the warden called it a spillway, in writing, then I think I would've went to court over it.
Any levy that controls water between two bodies of water is a dam, the officer is technically wrong about that. I would have been in court.
If they saw people doing stuff wrong they should have put up signs to let people know,especially for 3years.
I just saw this video and decided to check it out. I can only imagine how shocked you must have been to have those wardens show up 9 months after that fishing trip. I agree 100% that we are all capable of making mistakes and inadvertently breaking the law. It sounds like even the wardens weren't very clear about the definition of "dam" or "spillway." I sincerely appreciate your integrity regarding this entire situation. I will be subscribing to your channel. Best to just put this one behind you and keep doing your thing.
Not cool at all to wait 3 years to give tickets. Sounds really shady.
back in the 80s my Grandma caught one, didn't know it was illegal until the taxidermist told her when she tried to get it stuffed for her wall lol
Take them to court! More public knowledge/ signage/ education is easy for the state and federal game wardens. We pay taxes and should be respected!
Sorry that happened to you. You’re good people. ❤
I agree with you if you're doing something illegal it would be their job to cite you for the illegal activities not to let you keep continuing doing the same thing. It's almost as if they intentionally ignored their responsibilities as a game warden just to raise the amount of fine potentially to make themselves look better in someone's eyes . For failing to do their job to the best of their abilities and for robbing the public they should be reprimanded and suspended without pay for a while because you know this isn't the first time that they have done this.
I watch a lot of utube videos and some people actually show themselves doing things that are really questionable and I always think to myself they probably shouldn't show that. Yes! The law is watching all sorts of social media. One of the reasons i watch your videos is because you are honest and follow the rules. Good luck fighting this and keep making videos.
Yes, you should go to court! If nothing else, you could change how they hold information for 3 years. They need to bring these cases faster.
Awww man I’m so sorry this happened to yall. Stay strong!
Thank you for the advice because I’m from around that area and I’ve fished it my entire life and never knew this hate to see this happen but really appreciate you sharing the story
I watched a game warden turkey hunt before season was open. During gun deer season he gave my friend a ticket for trespassing and poaching because he got lost and crossed onto someone else’s property. He even showed the warden where there was no fence and wasn’t any signs. I also seen wardens write tickets for people hunting a restricted no hunting waterfowl area and the wardens came back and hunted it themselves.
I was impressed that you took responsibility for a mistake you made. You raised a question about their compileing data for 3 years before ticketing you. I don't think that their motivations were about stopping people from snagging Paddlefish, they were motivated simply by money. I really can't think of any other reason to wait 3 years before acting.
@danttapp4446 why do they let drug dealers deal when its known. To build a sound case that will hold up in court.
Also they may not have known for 3 years. The vids that provide that evidence may not have been discovered until much later.
There is a specific snag and release season for paddlefish in North Dakota FYI. Maybe where you are at you are not supposed to release anything snagged but in ND any "foul hooked" fish must be immediately released.
That’s tough Brotha…. Hope y’all can get through this quickly and it’s not some long drawn out process.
So sorry you went thru this. I would definitely take it to court. Good luck. Subscribed to your channel. Keep us updated.
If there's no indemnity clause I would be surprised. Fisherman need to get together to make a clause that prevents wardens and officers from accumulation of fines. They waited purposely to get more money. This in itself should be illegal.
That is how they build cases. If the fed wardens are involved....it is bigger cases.... especially with fish.
Please make a video of this location. Boat ramp, no regulations posted to warn other fishermen. Anything that can educate others to avoid this entrapment.
Thanks for your honesty posting this , thats a tough lesson !
This is a clear case of entrapment…argue it in court, and it more than likely will be dismissed as such…
I'm so sorry Cole that you had to go through that. You would think that they (the officers) were infringing on your rights. Not cool of the officers. Definitely sounds shady. Anyway, love your videos, whether they're good or bad. I'll back you and your family up any day. Love you guys and a Happy Year. I'm celebrating my birthday today, which is the 12th of January. Just turned 57 yrs young❤❤😮😮
Cole, just remember that to err is human. You are still awesome and Noone is perfect.
Play stupid games win stupid prizes looks like you hit the jackpot 👏 👏 👏 👏 bravo
If they really don't want these people to catch certain fish they need to post signs. To know that these people are illegally catching fish BUT continue to allow them to.... that's WRONG. Jay... please take this to court. Tell the judge that you couldn't find any laws on it so you determined that it was legal. They NEED to post signs to make it very clear to everyone what is legal and illegal. All of you need to take this to court!!!!
The warden should of educate first time offender and gave him a warning!
First of all, I LOVE all of y’all’s stuff!
And I would take the argument that those spillway pipes are part of a dam to court. Arkansas law is very clear that snagging is legal “within 100 yards of a dam” (I’m an Arkansas resident as well).
Also. If they wroth the tickets for the day the video posted; unless you posted day of which is not normal then I’m pretty sure the tickets are invalid. If you were not there on the dates the tickets were written then you could not have violated on that day.
That’s a dirty way for a law enforcement officer to entrap someone for a lot of money. I agree they should have fined your friends for the first offense end of story. They just ran the bill up. That’s not upholding the law but using authority in an abusive way. Sorry for your pain. Keep those videos rolling and put this behind you.
Good luck😊
Of course you go to court ! If they have been monitoring this area for several years while the law was being violated and instead of enforcement of the law that is entrapment. If there is no signage after several years of this law being violated and and fish and wildlife is aware of this and instead of posting the law about this law that is entrapment. The judge I believe would agree with me and admonish the department for their tactics and void those tickets.
Took the words right out of my mouth. No other way to put it but entrapment. They are being shady & not doing what their job scope should entail. Their job scope is to enforce rules so that the species of fish continue to thrive not to line the pockets of the entity they belong to.
Tough lesson to learn, but this also could have been avoided with a quick phone call to your state agency or game warden for the area if there was any uncertainty or "I think I'm legal" feelings. I have a great grasp of my state's regulations and still call to ask when I'm doing something different/uncommon and want to ensure compliance.
I am for the game and fish commission (but not in this case) I think you should all get together and file a lawsuit about this it is just wrong to watch someone over 3 years. its ok to have a fine if your doing something wrong but letting it add up instead of saying something just is not right.
The regulations are difficult to find despite having the book, app, and online access. We called AGFC due to being nonresidents and not being able to find the rod limit anywhere for shore and boat fishing on the Arkansas River (away from the dam). My call was directed to the headquarters in Little Rock, and they had me on hold for over 15 minutes. I explained not being able to find this info in their regulations or on their app - they then told me they had to call someone else to find out the answer. Apparently there is no limit. This information should be easy to access, and even the headquarters couldn't easily find it.
They definitely need to make the regulations more accessible and more clear - most anglers don't want to break the law, but it seems like they're setting us up to fail.
I am so sorry. And at Xmas! Wow. I feel like you. They should have brought it to their attention at the first place. That isn't right. But thank you for sharing. I hate to say it. But you guys are part of our family. I like to know how your family is doing. Jay is so on target on not freaking out. She is a keeper!!❤
1. Didn't know the regs for the body of water
2. Kept the fish you DID KNOW you weren't allowed to take with that method
3. Posted the evidence on the internet
4. Tried to say "well, the locals do it" as an excuse after getting fined
Enjoy those tickets! You earned em!
Correct.
Also him complaining about how they waited for 3 years. Well that is how they build cases.
I don't know why some officers seem to be good at turning the law into an injustice.
... you DO know thats their JOB ?.. Revenue Collectors who are not interested in justice, robbing people for victimless made-up "crimes"....
I was once considering starting a TH-cam fishing channel but this really makes me rethink that idea
So sorry Cole, I think that the federal wardens allowing it to continue are as guilty as the fishermen. Keep fish and God bless you.
A guy I worked with a long time ago used to go snagging at Ky Lake Dam all the time. Their target was spoonbills if I remember correctly and it was totally legal in KY.
He came to work one night with 2 black eyes and bruises all over his face. Turns out he snagged something coming thru the dam. It bent his rod over, the line snapped, and the rod smacked him between the eyes. It knocked him out and he fell on the rip rap. When he woke up, there was a guy trying to help him and he had blood everywhere. All of us work buddies got a good laugh out of it since he was at work and okay. He was back down there the next weekend doing it again though.
Also another work buddy and I went duck hunting once in a slough. It was wood duck and teal season. A warden stood in the woods spying on us. He had his limit in wood ducks, but not teal. He shot at a group and missed. The game warden finally made himself known. He asked what he shot at and answered he was shooting at teal, because he didn’t have his limit on teal. Warden told him he shot into woodies and not teal. One persons word against the other. Was told ignorance was no excuse. He got a $300 ticket for “attempting to take more than his limit”.
Arkansas law enforcement is the most crooked state I've ever had to deal with as a trucker. I won't ever step foot in that state again
Hehehe. I pulled a step deck and hauled a lot of over size loads. Arkansas is the only state that requires you to sign your permit in red ink. They give you a provision sheet with instructions that tell you to sign in red,but if you don't read that one line it was a $275.00 fine unless the first words out of your mouth were "I didn't have a red pen".
Little Rock, and thus all parts state govt, are controlled by uber-corrupt Leftists. I live in the north-central Twin Lakes area, and haven't heard of many abuses of power here. That could change on a dime, if agents who have worked in the area for decades are replaced by indoctrinated Leftists straight out of college, who know nothing about anything (other than politics).
Sorry but I believe Tennessee is by far I was in law enforcement there and quit because I couldn’t stand how corrupt it is
I agree 👍 💯
I don't know where you went wrong. Filming and publishing snagging a fish you aren't supposed to snag, talking to law enforcement trying to fine you, or telling your story online before going to court.
When snaggin' you have no control over what you snag... zip, zero, nada !!! If snagging is legal in any way at all... there must be an 'out' for snagging a game fish by accident... and if you have to 'keep' it by law... what is the remedy???. Otherwise it's literally Russian Roulette. That's insane. Get a jury of your peers... Cole, I'll be praying and I'm sure I'm not alone. We love you guys channel, your integrity is never in question.
Years ago my best friend was on a the Dam at Hula in Northern OK. in February. He would take a little black jig and a heavy weight on big tackle and cast waaaaay out below the dam. Then very slowly retrieve the jig across the bottom. The idea is a big catfish might not be hungry to go on the hunt... Like if we were sitting in a Lazy Boy after Thanksgiving dinner... we're not hungry... BUT... if you saw an M&M laying on the coffee table.... you'd probably take a nibble... So, he sometimes caught 20-30lb flatheads on a little black jig if he got lucky enough to drag one in front of one... Anyway, the Game Warden drove over and walked up to him on the Dam and engaged in some 'friendly' conversation.... 😎 asking to see his rigging. They'd been watching him with binoculars ... after he showed them his line and rig and explained the plan... they were satisfied because it was just a crappie jig and an oversized lead weight instead of a 3" treble hook on a 9'surf rod. But it was spooky for a few minutes.
Definitely go to court!!!
Based on the length of time they waited to give you tickets, I am inclined to go to court because I feel that these officers are basically entrapping not only you but your friends as well!!! Come on, if they were watching your friend for 3 years, something sounds real fishy, (no pun intended). I would get a lawyer and I would hope your friends do the same because something has to be done to keep them from doing this to other fishermen!!! Make these officers explain in court why they waited 9 months in your case and 3 years in your friends case!! I for one would love to hear how they justify doing what they did!!! You may get the fine reduced, who knows!!! Also, can they take your fishing license away for this?? That would really suck!!! Anyway I vote you go to court!!! Don't let them win!!!
This situation should go to court you need a lawyer who knows fishing rules
I am 72 and I have had about 8 interactions with LEO's and game wardens in my life. I sincerely wonder if applicants for LEO and Wardens are picked by their ability to "not care", but simply go by the strict rule of the law. How else do explain the lack of care for wildlife (watching violations pile up without informing or stopping someone) and their simultaneous zeal for administrating "justice"? No doubt there are good LEO's, but these bad ones are the ones you remember.
Hang in there, Cole. You’re a good guy who I think shows a lot of respect to rules and nature in general. I hate snagging. I hate paddle fish fishing. That’s just me. But I do agree they should be more legit and put the rules in obvious places. Then again, you already know my feelings about our state’s game and fish commission. ✌️🥴
If you have doubts about legalities and can't find anything in the regulations, just call the DNR or Game and Fish or whatever they're called in your area. They should be able to tell you if you're legal or not to do what you intend to do.
Yep, no signs posted, and allowing repeat offenses...contact your state reps as well
From a retired state game warden. The game & fish laws is becoming so complicated these days, that you almost have to have a double brief case carrying attorney with you to go down on the creek bank and catch a mess of fish. I began speaking out in season and bag limit meetings perhaps 20 years ago almost. After I retired, I had to call my former, still working partner, on half a dozen occasions since I was no longer in the inner circle of information. Hunting and fishing guides are not written in easy to understand form and their organization leaves much to be desired. While game and fish laws are strict liability laws (no criminal intent needs to be proved) I'd take it to court and explain the circumstances to the general sessions judge and work on convincing him that there was no criminal intent on your part; a judge is human just like us. We all make careless mistakes and overlooks little things. If you feel strongly the regulation were not written in complete form, or the officers were making a mountain out of a mole hill, then you have the right to have your case turned over to the grand jury and/or a trial by a jury of your peers.
Yes go to to court this is very beatable.
I have a ton of questions here in upstate SC! I write them all down, and then just call a warden and talk to him for an hour or more and have them all answered. Thats the fastest and surest method I found. Blessings
I have friends in Indiana that were snagging Asian carp. They were given hefty fines and court dates. An invasive fish can get American anglers hefty fines!
Exactly why I wont help clean it up... lol not my Asian carp problem
I don’t have any use for a game warden.
@@Danjodabanjo🤣🤣🤣
Sounds to me like is trap to make money why do they not put signs by the ramp. Most of lake's has signs of size limits and fish limits.
@@justinburkett5578me either! I’ve never gotten a ticket, but I’ve also never met one that wasn’t a total turd! Arrogant as hell
Sounds like power & money hungry. and keeping all snagged fish is crazy
Possum cops have a job to do but they should have confronted your friend before 3 years and let him know he was in the wrong instead of sting operation. Also the laws can be vague and difficult to interpret sometimes.
See you COURT three YEARS !!!!! LATER apparently they have nothing e else to do
So sorry that you had to go through this. It’s embarrassing and very stressful. A warning would have been the right thing for them to do but as I’ve seen on other channels, some cities are out for the money. You’d probably be guilty anyway in court and then you’d be paying court costs. I think you did right. Pay it and move on.
That is entrapment. If your seen doing something illegal, you should be warned or ticketed immediately. The wardens are suppose to be there to change behavior. They chose to set you up instead. I'd go to court with all the fishermen involved in a class action suit. If the fine is life changing for you and Jay, ask us viewers for help.
This happened in March? Sounds like someone was watching your videos and didn't agree and turned the both of you in.
Go to court and fight it !
Good news is the ad revenue from this video will just about pay for the ticket amount 👍👍
If the water is being held up then its a damn weather it's a spillway or hard concrete structure with locks and gates it still holds water up.
snagged while snagging sounds like entrapment to me pure and simple
Fight it. Don't take it laying down.
It is not about protecting the species. It is absolutely crazy that it is illegal to release a snagged fish
Big brother really is watching.
I think it's from someone watching his content that called them. I've seen condescending comments from the same person against Cole's fishing practices, cant recall what video I think it was him throwing fish back in the lake that was draining not sure but this guy was going off.
Post to social media, pay the price
Wow thats crazy! Sorry to hear man! Sounds like baiting a person in a way at that point?.. Not sure i would even fish there ever again if it were me.. But i have heard paddlefish are protected. Good luck fellas! Geez! Fish on!
will gladly donate for a go fund .. Fish on Cole and Jay
I don’t think it’s about the right or wrong. I think it’s about the way they went about it. Something is not ethical about it and you all, including you and your friends all of your friends need to stand up together and do something about this. Think of what they’re brewing the other people next make the difference. You’re a good man then don’t you forget it❤
That is 10 kinds of effed up. As others have said you probably, and I would have gone to court and argued my case there. You have given me something to research in my law library. I know the feds play their own game with their own rules, and I have seen many cases of them doing things that may not be exactly legal, because they figure people wont fight them. I'm sorry that this happened to you and your friends, and I'll let you know what I might uncover.
Cole, I did some research and found this concerning the statute of limitations on misdemeanor crimes in Arkansas. This may help your buddy. 👍
Time Limits for Criminal Charges in Arkansas
In Arkansas, misdemeanors generally carry a 1-year statute of limitations. Felonies are more varied, with no time limit for many felonies. There is a 6-year limit for Class Y and A felonies, and a 3-year limit for Class B, C, D, and unclassified felonies.
#1 I would've got an attorney before I paid their fine #2 What these officer's did was against the Law, after 2 years those infractions would not count,just the last year would have counted! #3 i would've told them prove it. #4 They should lose their job for it. #5 I don't snag fish on purpose.
Camera's are a form of SEARCH and could be argued as an ILLEGAL SEARCH since there is NO WARRANT.
Burden of proof is on them.
Go to court and ask for a jury trial.
The jury of your peers (other hunters and fishermen) will understand.
A camera in public is NOT considered a search. 4th amendment does not apply