Article 2. Sardines of California Fish And Game Code >> Division 6. >> Part 3. >> Chapter 2. >> Article 2.

(a) Sardines may not be taken or possessed on any boat, barge, or vessel except pursuant to Section 8150.7.
  (b) This section does not prohibit the possession or use of sardines imported into this state under a bill of lading identifying the country of origin.
  (c) Imported sardines may be used for dead bait under regulations adopted by the commission.

It is the intent of the Legislature that the sardine resource be managed with the objective of maximizing the sustained harvest. The department shall manage the sardine resource in conformance with the federal fishery regulations as recommended by the Pacific Fishery Management Council and as adopted by the Secretary of Commerce.

No person shall receive, possess, or sell sardines for any purpose except for that purpose specified on the fish receipt completed at the time of landing of those sardines pursuant to Section 8043.