Fishing is a popular pastime in Massachusetts, with the state offering a diverse array of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements and fees associated with saltwater fishing in the Bay State. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the cost of a saltwater fishing license in Massachusetts for 2024, the exceptions, and how to obtain your permit.
Saltwater Fishing License Fees in Massachusetts for 2024
In Massachusetts, the cost of a saltwater fishing license varies depending on your age and residency status. For anglers under the age of 60, both residents and non-residents, the fee for a saltwater fishing permit is $10. However, there is an exception for anglers aged 60 and older – they can obtain a saltwater fishing permit free of charge.
It’s important to note that while the permit is free for anglers 60 and over, they are still required to obtain a permit to fish in Massachusetts’ saltwater. This ensures that the state can accurately track the number of anglers and manage fish populations effectively.
Exceptions to the Saltwater Fishing License Requirement
Not everyone needs a saltwater fishing license in Massachusetts. There are a few exceptions to the rule:
- Anglers under the age of 16 are not required to have a saltwater fishing permit.
- Anglers fishing on permitted for-hire vessels, such as charter boats or head boats, are covered by the vessel’s license and do not need their own permit.
- Anglers who meet the state’s definition of a disabled person, as outlined in M.G.L. c. 19C, are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
- Non-residents with a valid recreational saltwater fishing permit from Connecticut, New Hampshire, or Rhode Island are not required to purchase a Massachusetts permit.
Reciprocity Agreements with Other States
Massachusetts has reciprocity agreements with several neighboring states, allowing anglers to fish in multiple jurisdictions with a single permit. These agreements include:
- New Hampshire: MA to NH and NH to MA
- Rhode Island: MA to RI and RI to MA
- Connecticut: MA to CT and CT to MA
- Maine: MA to ME only
It’s important to note that while these agreements allow anglers to fish in multiple states, regulations may vary from state to state. Always check the specific regulations for each state before fishing.
How to Obtain a Saltwater Fishing License in Massachusetts for 2024
There are several ways to obtain a saltwater fishing license in Massachusetts for 2024:
- Online: You can purchase your saltwater fishing permit online through the MassFishHunt portal. This is the most convenient option, as you can complete the transaction from the comfort of your own home.
- By Mail: You can download and print the paper application for a recreational saltwater fishing permit from the Division of Marine Fisheries website. Mail the completed application, along with a check or money order, to the Division of Marine Fisheries office in either Gloucester or New Bedford.
- In Person: You can purchase your permit in person at the Division of Marine Fisheries offices in Gloucester or New Bedford. These offices are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and only accept checks or money orders.
- Approved Vendors: Saltwater fishing permits can also be purchased from approved vendor locations, such as select retail stores or city/town clerk offices.
When purchasing your permit online, there is an additional administrative fee of $1.68, which includes a $1.45 handling fee and a $0.23 convenience fee. For in-person purchases at approved vendor locations, there is a $1.45 administrative fee and a $1 agent fee.
It’s important to note that your saltwater fishing permit expires on December 31 of each year. If you plan to fish in Massachusetts’ saltwater in 2024, make sure to renew your permit before the end of the year.
Your Permit Dollars at Work
When you purchase a saltwater fishing permit in Massachusetts, your money is put to good use. The fees collected from saltwater fishing permits are dedicated to improving the angling experience and supporting various marine recreational fishing projects and programs.
Some of the ways your permit dollars are used include:
- Public Access: Developing and maintaining large fishing piers, funding small projects to improve or repair existing access sites, and deploying dedicated recreational artificial reefs.
- Angler Education: Providing free clinics for young anglers and developing online resources for classroom educators.
- Improved Recreational Catch Data: Increasing the sample size for the Marine Recreational Information Program’s Access Point Angler Intercept Survey.
- Research and Conservation: Supporting river herring population management and restoration work, as well as studying striped bass migratory patterns and genetics.
By purchasing a saltwater fishing permit, you’re not only ensuring that you’re fishing legally, but you’re also contributing to the conservation and enhancement of Massachusetts’ marine resources.