PORT ANGELES, WA — A pair of anglers in western Washington are facing multiple citations after livestreaming themselves committing several fishing violations, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Police.

Early one afternoon, Officer McOmber received a report that an individual was broadcasting the illegal activity in real time. With assistance from WILDCOMM dispatch, the livestream was quickly located, and clips were recorded showing the men removing fish from the water to display to viewers — a direct violation of state fishing regulations.

When Officer McOmber arrived at the scene, he located the drift boat and observed the men still fishing while streaming. As he made contact, the livestream was abruptly ended. One angler was seen discarding his fishing gear despite being told not to. He later admitted to using a barbed hook, which was recovered by the officer.

Further investigation revealed that one of the anglers had already retained his daily limit of adult salmon but continued fishing, failed to record his catch on his card, and violated freshwater salmon handling rules. Both individuals will be cited for the violations.

According to WDFW, it is unlawful to completely remove salmon, steelhead, or Dolly Varden/bull trout from the water if they are not legal to retain or are intended to be released. The rule helps reduce fish mortality from handling.

WDFW officials remind anglers that following these regulations is essential to maintaining sustainable salmon fisheries across Washington.