A vessel that is used in or in aid of a violation of AS 46.03.740 - 46.03.750 may be detained after a valid search by the department, an agent of the department, a peace officer of the state, or an authorized protection officer of the Department of Fish and Game. Upon judgment of the court having jurisdiction that the vessel was used in, or was the cause of, a violation of AS 46.03.740 - 46.03.750 with knowledge of its owner or under circumstances indicating that the owner should reasonably have had this knowledge, the vessel may be held as security for payment to the state of the amount of damages assessed by the court under AS 46.03.758, 46.03.759, 46.03.760, 46.03.822, and AS 46.04.030(g). If the damages assessed are not paid within 30 days after judgment or final determination of an appeal, the vessel shall be sold at public auction, or as otherwise directed by the court, and the damages paid from the proceeds. The balance, if any, shall be paid by the court to the owner of the vessel. The court shall permit the release of the vessel upon posting of a bond set by the court in an amount not to exceed the maximum amount of damages available under AS 46.03.758, 46.03.759, 46.03.760, 46.03.822, and AS 46.04.030(g). The damages received under this section shall be transmitted to the proper state officer for deposit in the general fund. A vessel seized under this section shall be returned or the bond exonerated if no damages are assessed under AS 46.03.758, 46.03.759, 46.03.760, 46.03.822, or AS 46.04.030(g).