What is the penalty for poaching on a federal reservoir?

Question

No harm will be done to the property. Just fishing. There are not any signs that say no trespassing. But it obvious because of the barb wire fence.

Answer 1

No pun intended but, the word POACHING is one that I personally detest. Don't know what area ya' be in but, gettin' caught without a' valid license the fine can get pretty expen$ive, not ta' even mention the possible confiscation of one's rod/reel(s) and in some states it'll effect your driver license record ~ best ta' get one ;)... < ' ( (( > <

Note: Have worked a FEWWWW cattle ranches in my time and barbed wire be not  just for livestock gettin' out but, for ppl gettin' in ~ with or without No Tresspassin' signs...

Answer 2

First, they will confiscate all your equipment.  Then you will be cited and have to appear in court.  Get a lawyer so you maybe don't get TOO much time.  But there will definately be a fine.  I think it's $1000.

You will never get your rods and tackle back.  They take it as evidence, but if you are found guilty (which you will be), they don't have to return it.

Answer 3

you can be arrested for trespassing on federal land.  

Answer 4

Climbing an obvious barrier like a barbed wire fence is legally exactly the same as ignoring a "No Trespassing" sign. In either case, you're deliberately disregarding a property boundary marker. If there are no specific laws against fishing there, you won't lose your equipment and will only get a misdemeanor charge for trespassing (the same as if you were fishing on somebody's private property without his permission). If fishing is specifically prohibited there, then you can kiss your tackle bye-bye as well.

Answer 5

expect arrest, a record, confiscation of all equipment and vehicle. The helicopters that will respond to the call stating you are there will have heat identifying capacity so even at night they can see you.

Answer 6

You would be better off finding another place to fish.

Answer 7

fines, arrest. I know it's tempting but just go to another fishing hole.

Answer 8

Not worth the effort... as much as I love fishing - isn't worth a criminal record....