Cox: Remote-control fishing illegal in Michigan

Cox: Remote-control fishing illegal in Michigan

FREE PRESS NEWS SERVICES • December 23, 2003


LANSING — Michigan’sattorney general says it’s illegal to use a remote-controlled boat and rod to catch fish in state waters.

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Battery-powered miniature boats measuring 4 to 7 feet can be used to cast a line, catch a fish and reel it in. Web ads say a radio-controlled boat can be maneuvered to reach remote areas from a boat or onshore location, eliminating the need for casting.

Attorney General Mike Cox ruled today that the practice isn’t authorized because Michigan law requiresfishing rods to be in one’s hands or in one’s immediate physical proximity.

Cox wrote the opinion at the request of state Sen. Tony Stamas, R-Midland.

Attorney general opinions are legally binding on state agencies, unless courts reverse them.