Salt Water License

[aloop]

Is the $10 state salt water fishing license needed, required this year so I can catch 2 or 3 squid and a bass?

[Fishypantsmagoo]

technically...YES

[Charlie Wade]

Unless, of course, you're fishing on a "for hire" vessel, in which case their commercial SW license covers you...

[aloop]

I was informed yesterday that the state wants you to buy the license, (of course,) but they are not going to enforce or ask for your license!

[BIGJAHOOTIE]

we were checked on stellwagon today, every boat was checked on south west corner, dont be that guy , they would have boarded me if we wernt in 4-6 waves



no bull s h i t

[Charlie Wade]

And don't forget, this year they can also check charter and head boats for POSTING the state regs on minimum size and possession limits. See 322 CMR 7.10(5)(b) for the full text of the regulation. http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/comme...mr7.htm#cmr710

Here's a waterproof decal I came up with to meet this requirement. PM or email if interested; $5 plus applicable shipping/taxes. I also have a straight recreational version.
[IMG][/IMG]

Keep in mind, this is a state law and only applies to MA state waters. So if you're transiting state waters to or from the jigging grounds, better to be covered...

[amarshall]

So if you have a commercial license, you don't need this?

http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/recre...pplication.pdf


Just called Massachusetts DMF. If you are charter boat and have commercial license you still need to get Mass Saltwater license for the boat.

[Charlie Wade]

So if you have a commercial license, you don't need this?

You're right Andrew -- I was referring to the "Charter Boat Permit" that would cover the paying passengers. That's above and beyond the "Commercial Boat Permit."

[chathamblue30]

I understand the need for a license in state water but Stellwagen is outside the 3 mile limit right. Was wondering if you need a state license to now fish in federal waters ? Can't they just save some gas for the state and frustration for the fishermen and ask to see the permits at the boat ramps ?

[TODDMANCHU]

Yes but that would violate the prime DMF directive of. "If it makes sense it aint here"