HB 1833

Abstract

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Defines "roe" and "roe-bearing species". Sets out new penalties for the violation of several Sections of the Code. Provides that fair market value or replacement cost, whichever is greater, must be used to determine the value of fishes protected by the Code, and provides default minimum values. Provides that all commercial fishermen shall procure a commercial roe harvest permit in addition to their commercial fishing license before taking roe-bearing species with commercial fishing devices from the waters of the State. Provides that any incidental catch of aquatic life not authorized for taking with commercial devices must be returned immediately without harm to the water. Expressly allows the use of a trammel or gill net attached to a boat or boats and allowed to drift with the current. Deletes provisions concerning record-keeping and sets out new record-keeping requirements. Requires that any commercial fisherman who engages in taking roe-bearing species with commercial fishing devices, and all individuals assisting a licensed commercial roe harvester in taking roe bearing fishes from legally open waters of the State, must annually procure a commercial roe harvest permit from the Department of Natural Resources. Provides that any resident wholesale aquatic life dealer who buys, sells, or ships roe from roe-bearing species must annually procure a commercial roe dealer permit from the Department in addition to an aquatic life dealers permit. Sets the annual fee for permits associated with harvesting roe. Contains other provisions. Effective immediately.