Keeping Surf Perch in an Aquarium

December 3, 2020

Question: Is it legal to take live finfish caught in the surf such as barred surf perch and place them in a fish tank in a private setting at a private residence? (Patrick)

Answer: No, under a sport fishing license this is not legal in California. You can find the provisions of the marine aquaria pet trade in the California Fish and Game Code, sections 8596-8597. Transporting live finfish is also prohibited as per California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 1.63.