Can You Purchase Bluegill for Your Home Aquarium?

October 16, 2008

Question: Is it legal for me to purchase bluegill for my home aquarium? (Johnny, Long Beach)

Answer: According to Game Warden Patrick Foy, a few sections of the regulations taken in combination prohibit purchase or transport of locally caught bluegill or any warm water game fish for your aquarium. Aquariums and pet stores are not authorized to sell warm water game fish (Title 14, Section 227) and anglers are prohibited from transporting fish alive from the waters where taken (Title 14, Section 1.63). Transportation of live fish is prohibited in order to prevent the introduction of non-native species into California’s freshwater environment. Many very destructive invasive species present in California’s waters today are due to introduction by irresponsible aquarium owners. As a reminder, never release any fish or algae species into California waterways.