COUNTY - A captain with a 65-year unblemished record was fined $1,250 December 15 for having undersized lobsters in his catch.

 Provincial court Judge Gregory Lenehan imposed the fine recommended by Crown and defence lawyers, admitting it was less than the usual but reflected 78-year-old Arnold Harnish's "otherwise unblemished compliance" with regulations.

 Federal prosecutor Josh Bryson told the court fishery officers were doing random inspections at the Mill Cove wharf on December 2, 2010. When they checked two crates of lobsters on Mr. Harnish's boat, they found six small lobsters.

 Defence lawyer David Bond said his client was operating the boat and was nowhere near the catch being handled by two helpers that day. However, as captain, Mr. Harnish accepts responsibility.

 The Mill Cove fisherman is sitting out this lobster season for the first time in 65 years due to health issues.

posted on 12/21/11