I understand...and I think you get me wrong. I am not for more government control obviously. My point is, if it comes to a choice of having to buy a license or not having one (whatever "one" is), I would buy a license. Much like my dogs I mentioned...I want them and I am willing to pay to have them.
My ironic reply made above was because it seemed everyone was getting all worked up over the thought of government involvement. Just like your illegal deer meat...there isn't a seperate, isolated Government organization controlling and maintaining the possession of deer. It's all being handled by the various State Department of Wildlife, Fish and Game, etc. You buy a license to hunt deer and I am pretty sure you're not concerned that anyone is going to break down your door. But, if you poached one, I am pretty sure the thought would enter your mind
Sort of the same thing here. If I wanted to keep a Snakehead, I would buy a license if there was one available. And back to the original topic, I don't think everyone should have the opportunity to simply buy a shark because they want one. Size, breathing style, etc. all are considerations.
Simply put, fish keepers are a pretty small number...sort of a niche hobby (when compared to say the number of dog owners). It's easy for the Government to say "no" when the majority of the population isn't truly effected by the outcome. For example, I am sure my neighbor really doesn't care that I can't keep a Snakehead...but, being an avid fisherman, I am sure he would care to no end knowing that his favorite water hole was being over-run by an invasive, predatory species.
Maybe the option of buying a license to keep "exotics" is a good alternative to the simple no. The livestock themselves get at least a small degree of protection and the perspective owner has, at least, a small amount of legal responsibility.
I really don't see the issue.