Many boaters may not be aware that Massachusetts law requires all recreational fishermen ages 16 to 59 to 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. Whether you print your permit or have it stored on your mobile device, State law requires that you always have a version of your current recreational saltwater permit with you, available for display whenever you recreationally saltwater fish in Massachusetts.
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 .
For a list of fishing seasons by species, size and possession limits, visit http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dmf/laws-and-regulations/recreational-regulations/ .
