The commissioner may take rough fish and rainbow smelt with seines, nets, and other devices. The commissioner may hire or contract persons, or issue permits, to take the fish. The commissioner shall prescribe the manner of taking and disposal. The commissioner may award a contract under this section without competitive bidding. Before establishing the contractor’s compensation, the commissioner must consider the qualifications of the contractor, including the contractor’s equipment, knowledge of the waters, and ability to perform the work.