Submitted by Rick on 9/21/99. ( ) 152.163.189.129
Does the tag for a red drum over 28 inches need to still be with the fish when it is brought to the taxidermist? If one is brought in without the tag, is it illegal to mount it for that person? Thanks in advance for your responses.
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This response submitted by Jerry S on 9/22/99. ( jds@dhc.net ) 207.55.167.85
An excellent question, Rick . . . and another reason I support the idea of having a "Laws" category in the forum. Consider this, would you take in a deer that had not been tagged? While we are not game wardens, we still have a responsibility to not condone the violation of the game laws. In addition, if the fish is illegal when brought to you (not tagged as required by law) and you accept it, YOU are in possession of an untagged fish. I would think that you could be cited as well as the fisherman. (just my opinion - not based on facts of law). On my work order, the customer signs attesting to (among other things) that the animal was taken legally under all state and federal laws. I don't know if it would help me if it was later found that an animal was illegally taken, but it sure wouldn't help my case if it was obvious that the fish was untagged. Anyone else have any input?? Jerry S.
This response submitted by John C on 9/22/99. ( ) 204.180.103.206
Some states dont tag the head, they tag the carcas. Some state dont require a Bobcat to be tagged for the harvesters use. Some require bobcats to be tagged regardless.
I think Jerry is correct in requiring the sportsmen to sign that he legally harvested the critter. John C
This response submitted by Matt on 9/22/99. ( ) 209.30.207.251
Rick,
I've just mounted (2) large redfish and the fish must be tagged at all times when it is in your shop...you are in possession of the fish and it must have the tagged attached, even while working on it. I staple it to the gill plate and then upon finishing I actually lay it in the smooth out/seam on the back of the fish.
If you haven't already done so, call Texas Parks and Wildlife department and ask for the packet on "Rules for Taxidermists". One important point: The way the rules read you should have a wildlife resource document attached to each and every specimen in your shop or it could result in fine by Wardens. I have a warden friend and he said that last year they let it slide until everyone got the word...this year they plan to hammer folks for not having proper WRD's attached. It is a huge hassle, but he said that too much illegally taken game is making it's way thru meat processors and taxidermists..once the hunter/fisher signs the document the monkey is off your back.
Hope this helps.
This response submitted by Matt on 9/22/99. ( ) 209.30.207.251
Rick,
The fish must be tagged at all times, even while working on it according to Texas Parks and Wildlife. If you haven't already done so, call TP@W a request the packet of "Rules For Taxidermists."
They want every animal/fish tagged with a Wildlife Resource Document..Warden friend told me they let it slide last year, but will enforce it this year. FYI.
P.S. If you want to use a replacement head for that redfish call Lone Star Supply in Texas City...the set me up with head, body and eyes and even a paint schedule...very nice,helpful folks.
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