It shall be unlawful to possess aboard a vessel or while engaged in fishing any species of finfish that is subject to a size or harvest restriction without having head and tail attached, except:

1. (1) mullet when used for bait;
2. (2) hickory shad when used for bait, provided that not more than two hickory shad per vessel or fishing operation may be cut for bait at any one time; and
3. (3) tuna possessed in a commercial fishing operation as provided in Rule .0520 of this Subchapter.

History Note: Authority G.S. 113-134; 113-182; 143B-289.52;
Eff. January 1, 1991;
Amended Eff. January 1, 1991;
Temporary Amendment Eff. May 1, 2001;
Amended Eff. May 1, 2015; April 1, 2011; July 1, 2006; August 1, 2002;
Readopted Eff. April 1, 2019.