FRANKFORT, Ky. — A long-term investigation has revealed an illegal catfish harvest across Kentucky.
The Kentucky Fish & Wildlife Department said a 10-month probe identified 25 suspects involved in the illegal commercial harvest and sale of catfish from public waters, as well as the unlawful operation of pay lakes throughout the state.
Officials said “Operation River Raid” is expected to lead to more than 700 criminal charges across Livingston, Marshall, Boyd, Bath, Lawrence, and Powell counties. Game wardens plan to present over 100 felony counts to grand juries in each county to secure indictments.
Kentucky Fish & Wildlife alleges the suspects harvested more than 300,000 pounds of catfish.
The identities of those involved are being withheld until court proceedings begin. The investigation is ongoing.
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