In the early 20th century, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a small French territorial archipelago off the coast of Newfoundland, was known for its rich cod fishing heritage. According to local lore and some historical accounts, there was a rather peculiar regulation that required fishermen to obtain a 'license' not just to fish cod but seemingly to license individual codfish prior to sale. While the exact wording and enforcement details remain somewhat unclear, the rule is believed to have arisen from efforts to monitor and control the fishing trade rigorously. This bureaucratic procedure reportedly led to confusion and frustration among fishermen, who found the paperwork burdensome and the concept downright odd—how could a fish itself be licensed? Though this law no longer exists and might have been exaggerated over time, it remains a curious glimpse into the complexities of managing natural resources in a small community where codfish were both an economic lifeline and cultural symbol.
Source / verification note
Based on local oral histories and references in regional fishing archives; exact legislative texts are not fully preserved.