Tilapia as bait?

[TubeDude]

[#0000FF]I have had numerous discussions with DWR guys over the years about the potential for violations by using "unnamed" legal fish or fish parts. It would be literally impossible to list all of the fish species sold in fish markets that are permissible to use as bait.
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[#0000FF]The main idea is to clarify which Utah fish species are allowable and to specifically exclude those that are not. Tilapia are an invasive and illegally introduced species...and under a mandatory kill regulation wherever they are caught in Utah. One step below carp on the desirability and protection scale.[/#0000FF]
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[#0000FF]Tilapia are relatively inexpensive to purchase at a fish market. And like most fish they are readily accepted by non-discriminating catfish. Almost any fish flesh will work. Some of the oily and flavorful salt water species...like mackerel, sardines and anchovies...are especially good at times. As a general rule, all salt water species are legal. But as pointed out, fresh water species may be subject to carrying nasty fish diseases and unless properly treated (formaldehyde) could introduce problems to Utah fisheries.
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[#0000FF]I have not heard of any specific rulings on Tilapia but I will reach out and see if I can get a clarification.
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