REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF FISHERIES, GAME AM) FORESTS. 253 



So long as this section (249) remains a law, it will be almost impossible to convict 

 for killing or possessing game birds out of season in this State. 



The present law regulating the taking and possession of black bass does not 

 protect that fish at the time when they are spawning and brooding their young. 

 Therefore, more restrictive laws should be enacted until some means are devised to 

 artificially propagate them. This matter is, however, treated at length by the State 

 Fish Culturist in a special article on black bass in another portion of this report, and 

 I only desire to emphasize the fact that the fish must be protected during their 

 breeding season if we would [)rcserve them 



The legislation suggested in my annual report of 1895 relating to a change in 

 bringing actions for trespass, which through your efi'orts became a law in March, 1896, 

 has enabled the Protectors to bring to justice a number of timber thieves and to 

 institute proceedings whereby many others will be compelled to abandon their wanton 

 ways and cease denuding the State lands. 



All of which is respectfully submitted. 



J. WARREN POND, 



Chief Fish and Game Protector. 



SALMON FISHING. 



