The commissioner shall dispose of game fish eggs and fry according to the following order of priorities:

1. (1) distribution of fish eggs and fry to state hatcheries to hatch fry or raise fingerlings for stocking waters of the state for recreational fishing;
2. (2) transfer to other government agencies or private fish hatcheries in exchange for fish to be stocked in waters of the state for recreational fishing;
3. (3) sale of fish eggs and fry to private fish hatcheries or licensed aquatic farms at a price not less than the fair wholesale market value, established as the average price charged at the state's private hatcheries and contiguous states per volume rates; and
4. (4) transfer to other government agencies for fish management and research purposes.