(a) The General Assembly finds that:
(1) Fishing is a valued part of the State’s cultural and social heritage that provides unique recreational benefits to residents of the State; and
(2) Fishing plays an important part in the State’s economy by contributing to tax revenues and employment and supports the conservation, preservation, and management of the State’s fisheries, natural areas, and water resources.
(b) It is the intent of the General Assembly that residents of the State have a right to fish subject to regulations and restrictions under laws that the General Assembly enacts.