Many boaters may not be aware that all recreational/non-commercial fishermen ages 16 to 59 must purchase a ($10) permit from the State. Fishermen aged 60 and older must also obtain a MA permit, but it is free.
The permit is required in order to fish for finfish from shore or from a boat in Massachusetts marine waters, including up to the first upstream bridge in rivers and streams that flow to the ocean. For boaters, everyone fishing on board must have a permit to be in compliance with the law. This permit expires and must be renewed each calendar year.
This applies to everyone except:
- Anglers under 16.
- Anglers fishing on permitted, for-hire vessels (for example, head boats and/or chartered boats)
- Anglers who meet the definition of a disabled person in M.G.L. c. 19C.
- Non-residents with a valid CT, NH, or RI recreational saltwater fishing permit.
You can get your permit, more information or download a paper application at http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dmf/recreational-fishing/recreational-saltwater-permits.html
