REGULATIONS
Vol. 35 Iss. 17 - April 15, 2019

TITLE 4. CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES
MARINE RESOURCES COMMISSION
Chapter 740
Final Regulation

REGISTRAR'S NOTICE: The Marine Resources Commission is claiming an exemption from the Administrative Process Act in accordance with § 2.2-4006 A 11 of the Code of Virginia; however, the commission is required to publish the full text of final regulations.

Title of Regulation: 4VAC20-740. Pertaining to the Snagging of Fish (amending 4VAC20-740-10; adding 4VAC20-740-15, 4VAC20-740-25).

Statutory Authority: § 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Effective Date: April 1, 2019.

Agency Contact: Jennifer Farmer, Regulatory Coordinator, Marine Resources Commission, 380 Fenwick Road, Building 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651, telephone (757) 247-2248, or email jennifer.farmer@mrc.virginia.gov.

Summary:

The amendment prohibits the towing of any cobia or striped bass.

CHAPTER 740
PERTAINING TO THE SNAGGING OR TOWING OF FISH

4VAC20-740-10. Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to reduce snagging and towing injuries and mortalities to finfish in Virginia waters, and to preserve the public safety by prohibiting the practice of snagging fish.

4VAC20-740-15. Definition.

The following word or term when used in this chapter shall have the following meaning unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

"Towing of fish" means tethering a fish by any method behind the vessel while the engine is running and in gear.

4VAC20-740-25. Towing of fish prohibited.

It shall be unlawful for any person to tow any cobia or striped bass.

VA.R. Doc. No. R19-5890; Filed March 28, 2019, 3:59 p.m.