HB2256: Fixed fishing devices; Marine Resources Commission to adopt regulations that set distance between.

HOUSE BILL NO. 2256
Offered January 14, 2009
Prefiled January 14, 2009
A BILL to amend and reenact 28.2-307 of the Code of Virginia, relating to the Marine Resources Commission adopting regulations setting the length of fixed fishing devices; penalty.
Patron-- Pollard

Committee Referral Pending

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That 28.2-307 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:

28.2-307. Length of fixed fishing device; gill nets; penalty.

A. It is unlawful for any person to use a single fixed fishing device having a total length greater than 1,200 feet. Clear and unobstructed intervals of at least 200 feet shall be maintained between successive fishing structures in the same row, and adjoining rows of fishing structures shall be at least 300 yards apart. In addition, a clear passageway at least 200 feet wide shall be maintained, reaching from all regular navigable channels to all established boat landings. All stakes shall project not less than four feet above the surface of the water at all stages of the tide. Any stake not complying with this condition shall be removed by the licensee.

B. It is unlawful to place a net within 300 yards of the side or end of any fixed fishing device, unless in the same row The Commission shall, by regulation, establish the minimum distance between any net and the side or end of any fixed fishing device.

C. A violation of any provision of this section or any regulation adopted pursuant to subsection B is a Class 3 misdemeanor.