Can I Sell Fish I Catch in California? Understanding Commercial Fishing Licenses and Retail Requirements

If you’re an avid angler in California, you may be wondering if you can legally sell the fish you catch. The answer depends on the type of fishing license you hold and the specific regulations surrounding commercial fishing and fish sales in the state.

Understanding Commercial Fishing Licenses in California

In California, a commercial fishing license is required for anyone who wants to catch fish for the purpose of selling them. This license allows you to use various fishing methods, such as operating a boat, using nets or traps, and contributing to the activities on board a commercial fishing vessel.

There are two types of commercial fishing licenses in California: resident and non-resident. Residents of California who have lived in the state for at least six months prior to applying for the license pay a lower fee ($180.77) compared to non-residents ($532.00).

However, it’s important to note that a commercial fishing license alone does not entitle you to sell any fish taken while you were recreationally fishing. You must have caught the fish specifically for commercial purposes under the authority of your commercial fishing license.

Selling Fish Caught Under a Commercial License

If you have a commercial fishing license and have caught fish specifically for commercial purposes, you have a few options for selling your catch:

1. **Sell to a licensed fish business**: You can sell your catch to a licensed fish business, such as a wholesaler or processor, who will then handle the distribution and sale of the fish.

2. **Obtain a Fisherman’s Retail License**: If you want to sell your catch directly to consumers, you’ll need to obtain a Fisherman’s Retail License in addition to your commercial fishing license. This license allows you to sell your catch to the ultimate consumer, but it does not allow you to wholesale, process, receive, or sell others’ catch, or import product.

3. **Obtain a Fish Receiver’s License**: Another option is to obtain a Fish Receiver’s License, which allows you to sell your catch to someone other than the ultimate consumer, such as a restaurant or retail market. This license can also be used in place of the Fisherman’s Retail License.

It’s important to note that if you process your catch, such as filleting or smoking it, you’ll need to obtain a Fish Processor’s License in addition to the Fish Receiver’s License.

Local Regulations and Permits

In addition to state-level licenses and permits, you may also need to obtain local permits and follow specific regulations depending on where you plan to sell your catch. For example:

– **Harbor/Marina**: Local harbors and marinas may have their own requirements for selling your catch off the boat or at a dockside market.

– **City**: Some cities may require a business license, vendor’s license, or both if you plan to sell from a vehicle or stand within city limits.

– **County**: County planning departments may have zoning regulations and require proof of permission from appropriate agencies if you plan to sell from a vehicle or stand on a public right-of-way.

It’s crucial to research and comply with all relevant local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before selling your catch.

Recreational Fishing and Fish Sales

If you hold a recreational fishing license and catch fish for personal consumption, you are not allowed to sell your catch under any circumstances. Selling fish caught with a recreational fishing license is illegal in California.

In summary, while you can catch fish in California with a recreational fishing license, you cannot sell them. To legally sell fish in California, you must have a commercial fishing license and either a Fisherman’s Retail License or a Fish Receiver’s License, depending on who you plan to sell to. Additionally, you may need to obtain local permits and follow specific regulations in your area.