Admin

Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing License Required in 2011 for Saltwater Anglers

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Top Agent Plus

Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing License Required in 2011 for Saltwater Anglers.

The saltwater fishing season is right around the corner, and here is something you should know if you plan on fishing recreationaly in the state of Massachusetts.

Judy Jennings with Striped Bass
There is a new federal law that took effect January 1, 2011 which requires that you obtain a license.

"Massachusetts anglers who fish in federal waters, or target or catch anadromous species (saltwater fish that spawn in freshwater like shad, striped bass or smelt in any tidal or salt waters). Some individuals are exempt from the licensing requirement, including, anglers who are under 16; only fish on permitted charter, party or guide boats; hold a Highly Migratory Species Angling permit; are fishing commercially under a valid permit; or are already licensed through an exempted state."

In order to fish on a recreational basis in Massachusetts, saltwater fishermen must have a MA Recreational Saltwater Fishing permit. One license does not cover the whole family or vessel. Each family member must obtain a license with only a few exceptions. MA has always required a license for freshwater, but this is the first year for saltwater angling.

For more information, or to apply for your permit on-line visit the Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game website. The frequently asked questions provides much more detailed information.


Hope you all have a safe boating and enjoyable fishing season. See you on the water!

Copyright© by Judy Jennings - all rights reserved. Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing License Required in 2011 for Saltwater Anglers.

Comments(9)

Show All Comments Sort:
Brian J. Greenwood
Greenwood Real Properties - Canton, MA
Greenwood Real Properties @ Keller Williams Elite

Judy, my brother in law is an avid fisherman.  I will pass this on to him!

Mar 13, 2011 01:01 AM
David Popoff
DMK Real Estate - Darien, CT
Realtor®,SRS, Green ~ Fairfield County, Ct

 yeah, Ct required one last yr, a two yr old law already. I think to date I must have close to half a dozen different Ct. licenses, or is it just another type of tax?

Mar 13, 2011 01:12 AM
Judy Jennings
Top Agent Plus - Middleboro, MA
Tap into Judy's real estate expertise & resources.

Brian - It isn't welcome news, but we need to be aware of the new law.

Conrad - If they could figure out a way, they probably would.

David - We only had to register (free) last year. This year it costs $15 per license. Another way for the state to generate revenue whether we like it or not.

 

Mar 13, 2011 03:57 AM
Don Rogers
Keller Williams Realty Chesterfield - O'Fallon, MO
Realtor, Broker, CDPE, GRI, OnullFallon MO & St Charles County MO homes

Judy,

That is one very nice looking fish that you caught.  That was eithe a lot of meals or one heck of a fish fry.

I think that if I make it back up there I will stick to the charter boat for any fishing.

Mar 13, 2011 04:11 AM
Judy Jennings
Top Agent Plus - Middleboro, MA
Tap into Judy's real estate expertise & resources.

Don - You don't need a license for the charter boat, but you do if you go on a private boat and you want to fish. If I recall correctly, that fish was one heck of a fish fry. :)

Mar 13, 2011 07:45 AM
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.

Now THAT's a FISH Judy! Our fishing season will begin soon and we are looking forward to getting out on the lakes and reservoirs again! Hello Spring!

Mar 15, 2011 09:09 AM
Judy Jennings
Top Agent Plus - Middleboro, MA
Tap into Judy's real estate expertise & resources.

Wanda - I can't wait to get out on the water. There is nothing better for the soul.

Mar 15, 2011 01:15 PM
Edward moloney
Edward Moloney Loan Officer GMH Mortgage Services - Holliston, MA
Loan Officer Providing 5 STAR SERVICE

I love these great laws that have a negaitve impact on the enjoyment of others

Mar 21, 2011 03:37 PM
Judy Jennings
Top Agent Plus - Middleboro, MA
Tap into Judy's real estate expertise & resources.

Ed - We are really surprised it didn't happen sooner here in Massachusetts.

Mar 21, 2011 11:18 PM