Can you get a license to catch fish and keep them in a aquarium? Do you even need a license? Do you know?

Question

anyone who does that on the islands?

I love fish and have an aquarium. I live somewhere that I have to buy the fish in a petstore. I'd love to just go snorkeling and find the fish I want. I'm moving to the VI, so it's not like the fish will be in transportation long. I could use the ocean water to fill the tank and everything. Ideally I'd only fill it with stuff I found in the ocean. What do you think of my plan? Is it realistic?

Answer 1

i know that to catch fish in some places, you do need a license. Usually only for fresh water though. You should check with your local DEM before catching any fish

Answer 2

For one thing, you'd need to know if a  particular species of fish is protected.  If you get caught with a protected species in your possession you can get a hefty fine, jail time or both. That includes coral, etc.

If you purchase fish at a reputable dealer, you're getting healthy fish from a known source. How would you now know that a fish you 'catch' in nasty water won't kill the other fish in your tank? You don't.

Answer 3

You had better check with local fish and game department. Some areas are protected, some corals and plants are protected everywhere. It would have been a great idea 50 years ago, but today the fishing and environmental protection people have really cracked down with a lot of regulations. Sounds like a good idea using native species, but do check with the authorities first. You don't want the fines or potential jail time! good luck.