[Dave B.]

Unfortunately changing the fines would require getting the state legislature involved, and since they can't touch the monies derived from said fines since those dollars go directly into the dedicated Hunters and Anglers Fund, the pols have no desire to 'waste' their time addressing the situation.
We most definitely need a complete overhaul of the F&W fines and penalties statutes! And, I agree with full confiscation of all equipment in one's possession at the time of the infraction until the court appearance, and then depending on the charges and the outcome the possibility of permanent loss of the equipment/firearms, etc. That's how they operate in NY, and in the north country during the salmon run you will sit in the lockup until you can be seen by the local magistrate. God help you if you get tagged on a Fri evening, you may well sit in lockup until Mon morning. Oh, and unless things have changed in the past few years they only accept cash for any fines. No checks, no plastic.