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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 4. Conservation And Natural Resources
Agency 20. Marine Resources Commission
Chapter 1420. Pertaining to Atlantic Tarpon
6/13/2026

4VAC20-1420-20. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Atlantic tarpon" means any fish of the species Megalops atlanticus.

"Bait" means any whole or part of any marine or aquatic organism, live or dead.

"Circle hook" means a non-offset, non-stainless steel hook with the point turned sharply and straight back toward the shank.

"Fishing recreationally" means fishing by any person, whether licensed or exempted from licensing, where the catch is not intended for sale, barter, trade, or any commercial purpose.

"Gaff" means to utilize a hooked, metal rod to pierce the body of a fish to better facilitate bringing the fish on board a vessel.

"Spear" means to fish while the person is fully submerged under the water's surface with a mechanically aided device designed to accelerate a barbed spear.

Statutory Authority

§ 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 22, eff. June 1, 2026.

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