RFQ-R5-0625-03, Live Catfish (March & April 2025)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ-R5-0625-03) for the procurement of live Channel Catfish to support the Fishing in the City Program across Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside counties. The solicitation requires 5,400 total pounds of live channel catfish (4,900 pounds for Region 5 and 500 pounds for Region 6), with specific delivery requirements between March 21 and April 25, 2025. Vendors must be a State of California Registered Aquaculturist and maintain this registration throughout the contract term, with deliveries to be made F.O.B. Destination and Freight Prepaid. Strict quality control measures are mandated, including comprehensive fish health requirements and invasive species prevention protocols. The RFQ requires vendors to submit responses by February 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with quote opening scheduled for 3:00 PM the same day, and bidders must provide documentation including a California Seller's Permit, Darfur Contracting Act Certification, and Payee Data Record Form.

The procurement includes specific provisions for small business and disadvantaged business enterprises, with a small business preference of 5% and a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) incentive ranging from 3-5%. Potential bidders must complete several mandatory certification forms, including the Darfur Contracting Act Certification (DFW 1080), Payee Data Record (STD 204), and a Bidder Declaration form (DFW 1082) detailing subcontractor information if applicable. The solicitation also requires vendors to comply with California's postconsumer recycled-content requirements as outlined in the CalRecycle 74 form. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the procurement appears to be a competitive solicitation for a seasonal fish supply contract. Eligibility is restricted to vendors who can meet the state's regulatory requirements, demonstrate compliance with various certification standards, and possess the capability to deliver live fish to multiple locations with precise scheduling and quality specifications.