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Bill > HF832


IA HF832

IA HF832
A bill for an act relating to noodling licenses.(Formerly HF 505.)


summary

Introduced
03/07/2025
In Committee
03/07/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

91st General Assembly

Bill Summary

This bill relates to noodling licenses. The bill requires that a person noodling must purchase a noodling license. The bill defines “noodling” as a method of fishing for catfish using one’s bare hands or feet. The bill provides time of day, bag limit, size, and equipment restrictions on the license. The bill directs the natural resource commission to establish rules for the tenure and applicable fee of the noodling permit. A person who unlawfully takes a fish is subject to a scheduled fine of $35. A person who attempts to unlawfully take a fish is subject to a scheduled fine of $20.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a new licensing requirement for "noodling," a unique fishing method where individuals catch catfish using only their bare hands or feet. The bill mandates that anyone engaging in noodling must first purchase a specific noodling license, which comes with several important restrictions: noodling is only permitted during daylight hours, license holders can harvest a maximum of three catfish per license, each harvested catfish must be at least ten inches long, and no special equipment like scuba gear, fins, bait, gloves, or breathing tubes can be used. The natural resource commission is tasked with creating rules that will determine the license's duration and fee. The bill also includes enforcement provisions, with fines of $35 for unlawfully taking a fish and $20 for attempting to do so. This legislation provides a structured approach to regulating a traditional but unconventional fishing practice, ensuring both conservation of fish populations and safety of those participating in this hands-on fishing method.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance

Sponsors (0)

No sponsors listed

Other Sponsors (1)

Natural Resources (House)

Last Action

Subcommittee recommends passage. (on 04/08/2025)

bill text


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