(A) Except as provided in Article 21, it is unlawful to take, possess, land, sell, purchase, or attempt to sell or purchase:
(1) spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus) (winter trout) of less than thirteen inches in total length;
(2) flounder (Paralichthys) of less than twelve inches total length;
(3) red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) (channel bass or spottail bass) of less than fourteen inches in total length, or more than twenty-seven inches in total length; or
(4) black sea bass (Centropristis striata) of less than ten inches in total length.
(B) The finfish species named in this section must be brought to the dock or landed with head and tail fin intact except for product produced by mariculture operations permitted under this chapter, provided that returning fish of unlawful size immediately to the water does not constitute a violation. Black seabass sold or offered for sale must be processed, marketed, and sold to the ultimate consumer with head and tail fins intact. A commercial retailer or restaurant may remove the head at the request of the ultimate consumer after completion of the transaction but before transfer of the purchase or serving of the dish.