Code of Virginia § 28.2-314. Trawl nets and drag nets prohibited; exception; license fee; penalty.

190 words·~1 min read·/va/title-28-2/chapter-3/28-2-314

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

A. It is unlawful for any person

(i)to take or catch fish, shellfish, or marine organisms with a trawl net, drag net, or similar device drawn through the waters by a vessel, boat, or other craft or

(ii)to buy, sell, or offer for sale any fish taken or caught in the waters of the Commonwealth, or under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth, with a trawl net, drag net, or similar device. However, the Commission may issue licenses or permits to take or catch fish, shellfish, or marine organisms with a trawl net, drag net, or similar device within the three-mile limit of the Virginia Atlantic shoreline for the shrimp and horseshoe crab fisheries.

B. The license or permit fee to fish with a trawl net, drag net, or similar device pursuant to subsection A shall be $100 or as subsequently revised by the Commission pursuant to § 28.2-201 for each boat so employed.

C. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Code 1950, § 28-68; 1962, c. 406, § 28.1-67; 1973, c. 119; 1979, c. 18; 1992, c. 836; 2025, cc. 13 , 18 .