A Toronto man has been fined $5,000 and banned from fishing in Ontario for a year after he was caught with 73 bass in Algonquin Provincial Park – 67 more than the legal limit.
Mykola Bondaruk pleaded guilty to possessing 67 bass over the legal limit. Justice of the Peace Jennifer L. Grant heard the case on Nov. 17, 2025, in Pembroke.
In addition to a $5,000 fine, Bondaruk is prohibited from all fishing-related activities in Ontario for one year.
Officers discover violation on the water
The court heard that on Aug. 21, 2025, conservation officers inspecting Sec Lake in Algonquin Provincial Park encountered Bondaruk, who had been fishing from a rowboat.
“The officers’ inspection on the water revealed Bondaruk was in possession of a mix of 38 largemouth and smallmouth bass,” the Ministry of Natural Resources said in a court bulletin.
The lake is located in Fisheries Management Zone 15, where the sport fishing possession limit for largemouth and smallmouth bass combined is six.
Additional fish found at campsite
Following the initial inspection, officers proceeded to Bondaruk’s waterfront campsite.
“At Bondaruk’s waterfront campsite, an additional 35 bass were located in coolers, bags and pans,” the ministry said.
The combined total of bass in Bondaruk’s possession was 73.
Ministry emphasizes conservation
The ministry used the case to remind the public of the importance of fishing regulations, particularly within the 7,635-square-kilometre provincial park, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities.
“Ontario’s fisheries are regulated to ensure a species protection, conservation and affords us an opportunity to make memories that last a lifetime,” said MNR Conservation Officer Ron Arnold in a social media video released alongside the court bulletin.
“Please respect our fisheries and follow the regulations,” Arnold said.
“It is important to note, millions of visitors and residents do not break these laws.”
To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, call the ministry TIPS line toll-free at 1-877-847-7667 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
For more information about unsolved cases, click here.
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