The vast majority of violations of the California Fish and Game Code are misdemeanors, with the exception of minor charges, which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or an infraction. Those who violate the Fish and Game Code can be charged with a felony in the circumstances involving a criminal conspiracy or conduct involving more egregious acts of poaching. When the person’s wrongful intent increases, so does the likelihood the offense will be charged as a felony. For more unknowing violations, those are typically charged as an infraction and potentially a misdemeanor. An infraction does not involve any jail time, and it’s just a fine; misdemeanors can include jail time not exceeding one year in the county jail, and then a felony can involve the potential for state prison.