Finding State by state fish keeping regulations

[Rene2199]

Hello, my wife and I are looking to move to a different state, and we have some fish and are looking to add bigger tanks and more fish in the future. How can we find out which states allow which fish?

[Fish Folk]

Probably easiest for us to help you with the details… what species? What state?

State regulations are more related to what native fish can be taken from state waters, and what fish may or may not be sold or imported as a purchase.

Help us learn what you’re looking at! 

[DaveO]

No retailer is going to sell illegal fish, so you actually don't need to worry about it.

There are no laws prohibiting interstate transport of privately  owned aquariums and fish. I think you are worrying about a problem that doesn't exist.

[Tanked]

 

On 9/13/2023 at 7:38 PM, Rene2199 said:

Hello, my wife and I are looking to move to a different state, and we have some fish and are looking to add bigger tanks and more fish in the future. How can we find out which states allow which fish?

The rules vary by state.  Here in Ohio there are 32 "injurious" aquatic animals (fish, crustaceans, mollusks) that you are banned from possesing unless they are dead, pickled, and or dismembered. Almost none of these animals are found in the average aquarium. This list is different from the "invasive" species list.   Some states actually have lists of approved (unrestricted) aquarium fish.  The folks here might be able to help, or better yet, contact the DNR in the state you are moving too. 

[Rene2199]

On 9/13/2023 at 7:49 PM, Fish Folk said:

Probably easiest for us to help you with the details… what species? 

Well for example, i live in California now and ive heard that we aren't allow to have sting rays... im not sure if that appplies to fresh water or salt water or both 

[Fish Folk]

On 9/14/2023 at 12:09 PM, Rene2199 said:

Well for example, i live in California now and ive heard that we aren't allow to have sting rays... im not sure if that appplies to fresh water or salt water or both 

So, just to be clear, are you specifically asking about CA regulations governing keeping, importing, or transporting Potamotrygonidae to your current home?

If so, the regulation that applies is found here, see pg. 14, and 18.

But if you’re trying to _actually_ ask if you’ll legally be allowed to gave them in _some other_ state, do let us know.

 

[Rene2199]

Its really its more for my knowledge on what isn't allowed state by state if we do move. 

Game and fish seems to have a small list for texas but not for AZ?...

But thank you for trying to help