HB397

AN ACT relating to trophy catfish.

Introduced·1/15/26
Bill Text

Kentucky HB397 establishes regulations for trophy catfish in the lower Ohio River, including size limits and permit expiration dates.

Kentucky HB397 introduces specific regulations for trophy catfish in the lower Ohio River. It defines "trophy catfish" as blue or flathead catfish that are at least 40 inches long or channel catfish that are at least 32 inches long. The bill mandates that any permit issued for taking these catfish will expire on May 31, 2027, and no new permits will be issued after that date. It also outlines various fines and penalties for violations, including fines ranging from $100 to $2,000 and potential jail time up to one year.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Appropriations and Revenue Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
3
RRR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Feb 5

9:00 AM

House Committee On Natural Resources And Energy

History

Apr 15

House

recommitted to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

Feb 10

House

floor amendment (1) filed to Committee Substitute

Feb 6

House

2nd reading, to Rules