Chapter 570. Pertaining to the Use of Firearms to Take Fish
4VAC20-570-10. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to conserve the stocks of finfish, eliminate a dangerous method of harvest, and confine harvest methods to traditional fishing gears.
Statutory Authority
§ 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR450-01-0074 § 1, eff. October 1, 1991; amended, Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 22, eff. July 1, 1995.
4VAC20-570-20. Use of firearms and sale of fish prohibited; exceptions.
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to take, catch, or kill any fish with the use of a firearm.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person to possess or sell any fish taken or killed by the use of a firearm.
C. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the killing by firearm of a shark which has been brought to boatside by legal fishing methods.
D. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the use of underwater fishing devices, known as "bang sticks," which are attached to spears or are hand held and discharge a blank charge or projectile.
Statutory Authority
§ 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR450-01-0074 § 2, eff. October 1, 1991; amended, Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 22, eff. July 1, 1995.
4VAC20-570-30. Penalty.
As set forth in § 28.2-903 of the Code of Virginia, any person violating any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor, and a second or subsequent violation of any provision of this chapter committed by the same person within 12 months of a prior violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Statutory Authority
§ 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from VR450-01-0074 § 3, eff. October 1, 1991; amended, Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 22, eff. July 1, 1995.