Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Wants This Illegal Practice to Cease Immediately

There are few things more relaxing than going fishing. I know because I've done it twice, and they were very nice days. Despite the "tongue-in-cheek" quality of the previous sentence, I'm really not trying to be funny. I used borrowed equipment on those days because I don't have any of my own. I never caught anything, but I did antagonize a couple of great big turtles.

Of course, antagonizing turtles won't get you in hot water with the authorities. You might lose a pinky if it's a snapping turtle and you're not being smart. But that will only require a trip to the hospital, not a courtroom.

Illegal Fishing in Kentucky

What is illegal, however, is a practice that the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is cracking down on, of late. This clearly does not apply to commercial fishermen, but if you try to sell fish that you have caught with your own equipment, officially known as "rod-and-reel caught" fish, you are breaking the law. Exceptions are made for invasive Asian carp, but only if you're a sport angler.

I do know that Asian carp are an enormous problem, and KY Fish and Wildlife might not care how they disappear, as long as they disappear. And they are a food fish, so there's a market there.

Why Is Reselling 'Rod-and-Reel' Caught Fish Illegal?

It's quite simple, using a rod and reel is considered a sport fishing method, and that require a license. The KDFWR is cracking down and wants anyone who would like to report a violation to call the 24-hour tip line at 1-800-25-ALERT or use the KFWLaw app.

As a huge fan of anything, just about, that comes out of the water, I suggest you catch your fish, take them home, and then either blacken, grill, or fry them. I know. It's the easy answer. It's also the tastiest.