I believe the hook mortality studies presented by the department are dated and weak. Often I will mash the barb on the remaining hook. It makes releases much easier. Artificially raised rainbow trout can be sold for bait as long as they are greater than 7 inches in length, which is the legal size for trout caught in public water. The 2000 General Assembly passed an amendment that allows artificially raised trout to be sold for any purpose as regulated by the DGIF board.
Trout are a popular bait for striped bass in several other states.
Virginia fish farmers want to be able to cash in on this market. The 7-inch minimum size is overly restrictive. Buyers must possess a receipt showing they purchased the trout. Does it really matter if they are 4 or 5 inches in length. Seven inches is a pretty big fish, and the mortality of handling them is going to be a factor.