It used to be that you could fish anywhere as long as you had a pole, a line, a hook and a worm. That has changed over the years and now there is a fee for everything. Did you know that you now have to have a salt water fishing license?
That’s right. Last year (2011) you were suppose to get a
Federal Permit to fish in all United
States ocean waters. Who knew? This year (2012) you need to get a
Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit in Massachusetts ,
Rhode Island and Connecticut which all have reciprocal
agreements. If
you fish in Maine,
Maryland, Massachusetts,
New Hampshire, New Jersey, or Virginia, please be aware
there are new state fishing license and registration requirements. Please check with
these states before registering with NOAA. If you meet these state requirements, you are
automatically registered with NOAA.
The cost of the Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Permit is
only $10.00. For those over 60 the permit is free but you may have to pay a processing
charge on the internet. However, after
registering you have to fill out a survey that asks several fishing related
questions but also asks how much does a license mean to you and would you be
willing to pay more. Some anglers are
then selected by random to give up their license for the year in return for a
gift check ranging from $10 to $500. The full article appeared in the Boston Globe
(Friday, 3-2-12) http://articles.boston.com/2012-03-02/business/31114730_1_recreational-saltwater-fishing-fishing-industry-anglers
For us Romeos who have gone on a deep sea fishing trip there
may be some extra fees. The Boat owner
will now have to get a “For Hirer Fishing Permit” that covers his passengers.
The passengers will be covered by the boat permit. However, you know that the
cost will be passed along.
Although you can a get a Freshwater and Hunting License at
your local Town Hall, you can only get the Saltwater License online, by phone
or at selected Marine Fisheries Offices.
Go to the Mass.
Website below to get further details.
You can also get further info about the Federal Permit at the NOAA
website below.
National Registry – NOAA Fishery Service – Federal Permit
https://www.countmyfish.noaa.gov/register/Comments Always Welcome … markryan82@comcast.net