What is a Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp and Who Needs One in California?

In the state of California, commercial fishing for salmon is a highly regulated industry with specific requirements for licenses, stamps, and permits. One of the key documents needed by anyone involved in the commercial salmon fishing business is the Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp. This stamp, which costs $87.55 in 2024, is required for any person 18 years of age or older who meets one of the following criteria:

Renewing a Salmon Vessel Permit

If you own or operate a vessel that is used to commercially fish for salmon, you must renew your salmon vessel permit each year. As part of this renewal process, you are required to purchase a Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp for $87.55.

Taking Salmon for Commercial Purposes

Any commercial fisherman who actively catches salmon for sale or profit must have a Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp. This applies to both residents and non-residents of California who are 18 or older.

Being on Board a Vessel Transporting or Taking Salmon Commercially

Even if you are not the one catching the salmon, if you are on board a commercial fishing vessel that is either taking salmon or transporting previously caught salmon, you must have a Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp.

There is also a special “John Doe” Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp that is vessel-specific and cannot be transferred to other boats. The commercial fisher whose name is listed on this stamp is considered the designated crewmember and is exempt from needing their own stamp for that particular vessel.

In addition to the Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamp, there are several other licenses and permits required for commercial salmon fishing in California, including:

• Resident Commercial Fishing License ($180.77) or Nonresident Commercial Fishing License ($532.00)
• Commercial Boat Registration (Resident – $467.50 or Nonresident – $1,388.00)
• Commercial Passenger Fishing Vessel License ($467.50)

The money generated from the sale of Commercial Fishing Salmon Stamps helps fund important salmon restoration projects in California. Similar salmon stamps are used in other states like Connecticut and Canada to support conservation efforts.

With the complex web of licenses, stamps, and permits required for commercial salmon fishing in California, it’s important for anyone involved in the industry to be aware of the specific requirements that apply to them. Failure to obtain the necessary documents could result in fines or other penalties.