yesterday when he appeared in Magistrates' Court.

Osmond Harry Viera, 71, of Sun Valley Road, pleaded guilty to fishing in protected waters on June 20.

Crown counsel Cindy Clarke told the court that around 2.15 p.m., Marine Police were on patrol along a protected red hind breeding ground off South Shore, when they saw Viera fishing.

They approached Viera and informed him he was in a protected area and pointed it out to him on mapping charts. The Police then confiscated his fishing gear.

Mr. Viera told Mr. Warner: "I didn't know. The buoys went all the way up the south west along Sonesta. They have taken my cooler and fishing rods and I want it back.'' Mr. Warner replied: "I fine you $500 for the offence. Speak to the people at Fisheries to get your equipment.''