Can Sport-caught Fish Be Prepared and Consumed at Sea

June 3, 2010

Question: Can sport-caught fish be prepared and consumed at sea when fishing/diving from a private vessel? (Ben W.)

Answer: Yes, legally taken fish may be prepared and consumed at sea, but there are some restrictions. Abalone must remain attached to their shell and lobster tails must remain attached to the carapace until they are being prepared for immediate consumption. For finfish that may be filleted at sea, the skin (or prescribed portion) must remain attached for species identification until they are being prepared for immediate consumption (California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 27.65)