Trotlines are a popular fishing method used by anglers and commercial fishermen alike, but their legality varies from state to state. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the regulations surrounding trotlines in each U.S. state and provide a clear understanding of where they are permitted, restricted, or outright banned.
Trotline Legality by State
While trotlines are legal in most states, there are several notable exceptions:
Alabama: Trotlines are illegal.
Alaska: Trotlines are illegal.
Florida: Trotlines are illegal.
Maine: Trotlines are illegal.
Nevada: Trotlines are illegal.
New Jersey: Trotlines are illegal.
New Mexico: Trotlines are restricted to certain areas.
Virginia: Trotlines can only be used for non-game fish.
West Virginia: Trotlines are restricted to certain areas.
Wisconsin: Trotlines are illegal.
Wyoming: Trotlines are illegal.
In states where trotlines are legal, there are often specific regulations and restrictions in place to ensure their safe and responsible use. These may include requirements for tagging and marking trotlines, limits on the number of hooks allowed, and restrictions on where trotlines can be placed.
Trotline Regulations in Maryland
Maryland is one state where trotlines are legal, but with some important restrictions. According to the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), an individual may not set or fish a trotline within 100 feet of another individual’s set trotline, collapsible crab trap, or net ring.
Trotline Regulations in Texas
Texas also allows the use of trotlines, but with specific requirements and restrictions. In fresh water, trotlines must be used with a valid gear tag, which can be a properly marked buoy or float. The gear tag must be attached within 3 feet of the first hook at each end of the trotline and is valid for 6 days after the date set out.
In salt water, no more than 1 trotline may be used per angler, and a valid Saltwater Trotline Tag must be attached to each 300 feet of trotline.
There are also several specific areas in Texas where trotlines are prohibited, including community fishing lakes, certain reservoirs, and sections of rivers within state park boundaries.
Trotline Regulations in Ohio
Ohio has its own set of regulations for the use of trotlines. Trotlines must be marked with the name and address of the user, and wire or cable may not be used. Not more than three trotlines are permitted in any one body of water in the Inland Fishing District, and not more than 50 hooks per trotline are permitted in any tributary of Lake Erie.
Trotlines may not be used within 1,000 feet downstream of any dam, and they are only permitted in certain designated areas, such as streams, lakes, and bays.
It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and anglers should always check with their state’s wildlife or fisheries department for the most up-to-date information before using trotlines.
In conclusion, while trotlines are a popular fishing method, their legality and regulations vary significantly across the United States. Before setting out with a trotline, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific laws and restrictions in your state to ensure you are fishing legally and responsibly.