Youths flee after man catches them fishing illegally at MacRitchie and calls PUB "on the spot"

National water agency PUB is investigating an incident in which two youths were seen fishing in a prohibited area at MacRitchie Reservoir.

Stomper Sham said he felt angered when he spotted the two youths near the zig-zag bridge at the reservoir on November 14, at around 11.50am.

He told Stomp: "They were fishing despite the signboard clearly stating that fishing is not allowed in that area. It's an absolute disregard of the law.

"Although it's not my first time seeing people fishing illegally at MacRitchie Reservoir, this is the first time I saw them doing it openly at this particular location near the bridge."

In a photo that Sham shared, one of the youths can be seen posing with his catch while his friend took a picture on his mobile phone.

The Stomper recounted: "I called PUB on the spot. The youths saw and heard me talking to PUB. They quickly threw the fish back into the water and walked away."

In response to a Stomp query, PUB said it has identified the location of the incident to be at around the zig-zag bridge at MacRitchie Reservoir, which is not a designated fishing area.

PUB added: "We are investigating the incident and will continue to monitor and patrol the area to deter fishing activities.

"PUB would like to appeal to the public for information on the identities of the two youths, so that we can educate them on responsible fishing and safe distancing measures. Please call 1800-CALL-PUB."

Members of the public are advised to refer to PUB's website for the list of designated fishing locations at reservoirs and waterways.

Offenders caught fishing at no-fishing areas and/or using live bait at reservoirs can be fined up to $3,000.