CT HB05141

Repeals and replaces Section 26-127 of general statutes, effective October 1, 2022, to prohibit transporting bait species taken from Connecticut waters out of state as a class D misdemeanor, with exceptions for bait species propagated in private registered waters or licensed commercial hatcheries.

Establishes a daily limit of 200 pounds or more on four bait species: tidewater silverside, Atlantic silverside, sand lance or sand eels, and bay anchovy, with each violation constituting a separate infraction.

Amends Section 51-164n of the 2022 supplement to general statutes to add subsection (b) of Section 26-127 (bait species daily limits) to the list of violations subject to specific violation procedures.

Requires the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to provide a free printed fishing guide for the 2023 season, effective from passage of the act.