RFQ-R5-0626-01, Catfish

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ-R5-0626-01) for the procurement of live Channel Catfish to support the department's urban angler program across Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Bernardino Counties. The solicitation seeks 15,000 pounds of live catfish to be delivered to various lakes and parks between May and August 2026, with specific quantities and delivery dates detailed in the RFQ document. Bidders must submit their quotes by 2:00 PM on August 12, 2025, with quotes required to remain valid for a minimum of 60 days. The contract will be awarded on an "All or None" basis to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all administrative and technical requirements. Key qualifications include possession of a California Seller's Permit, compliance with state regulations, and the ability to deliver fish F.O.B. Destination with all shipping charges incorporated into the unit price. Evaluation criteria include pricing, compliance with state requirements, and meeting technical specifications for live fish delivery.

The solicitation includes several set-aside and preference provisions, notably a 5% preference for California Certified Small Businesses. Bidders must complete multiple compliance documents, including a Bidder's Declaration (DFW 1082) detailing subcontractor information, a Darfur Contracting Act Certification, and a Recycled Content Certification. The opportunity has specific restrictions and requirements for businesses, including compliance with Russian sanctions and disclosure of any use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in the proposed solution. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the RFQ requires detailed documentation about the bidder's business, including a Payee Data Record (STD 204 form) for tax reporting purposes. Although a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement involves 15,000 pounds of live catfish, suggesting a substantial contract value for the selected vendor. Businesses must also be prepared to certify their business activities and meet various state-mandated compliance requirements to be considered for the contract.