A lot of states do not allow it. especially, when there is min. size limits.
So, I've looked online at MDC and cannot find a specific answer to my question. So, sorry if it's been asked.
Is it legal to clean my fish while on the water, then transport the fillets home in my cooler (properly separated and labeled by each fisherman)?
A lot of states do not allow it. especially, when there is min. size limits.
generally, no...
Mo states the heads need to stay on the fish or something like that. basically no you can not clean them while on the water. Clean em on the bank and toss the remains in the lake is ok. they also say your cleaned fish should be labeled with your name/conservation ID and dated. Also if you fish lake A and catch a limit and want to go to lake B to catch another limit (still under the daily limit for the state) you can not take the catch from lake A to lake B.
Regulations | MDC Hunting and Fishing look under length limit
"The head and tail must remain attached to the fish while you are fishing on waters where length limits apply."
I see what you are saying, and read that when I was researching. But I won't be fishing any longer when cleaning fish. All rods will be put away with no lines in the water. The regs don't say you have to be off the water. Not to confuse states, but OK has regs that states you can clean fish on the water, but all rods must be stowed away - which makes perfect sense.
I am really trying to make sure I can clean fish while in my boat. I personally believe it is the best option as I can discard the remains into the lake where it can consumed by other fish, critters. And, I can keep the remains out away from the bank.
Possessing, transporting, and storing fish
The fish you catch in Missouri, or elsewhere, may be possessed and transported as your personal baggage, if you have the required permit. Fish may be stored, preserved or refrigerated only at your home, camp, place of lodging or in a commercial establishment.