Hey all. Headed down for a 10 day bareboat charter in a few weeks and I have been asked this question. Please give me your thoughts on this.

I know the fishing reg's changed in 2016 and my understanding is that NO non resident of the BVI can take lobster, and that no fishing is allowed from any vessel that does not have a specific fishing permit. (I understand that we can no longer even get a permit to fish off of our yacht charter boat.)

I am wondering though, if I am on the boat of a resident fishing guide of the BVI that is registered as a fishing vessel, is it legal for the resident to GIVE me a lobster if he/she takes one from a legal area and it is above the minimum size regulation. Is it even legal for the fishing guide to take one while chartering?

I know this sounds a little fishy, (pun intended) but the truth is, I just want to be sure that none of my family or friends do anything that breaks any law or rules of the BVI.

We definitely plan to eat some lobster at some of the fine restaurants, but it would be pretty sweet to be able to throw one on our own grill.

Also, where is it legal to purchase fresh "live" lobster or is it?

Thanks!