If you haven’t already heard, starting this year Massachusetts (along with every other US state bordering the ocean) will now require a fishing license for most salt water sport fishing situations. A summary of the pertinent details:
Who needs a license? Any angler 16 years or older fishing in state marine waters, including up to the first dam in rivers and streams that flow to the ocean. An individual license is not required if you are fishing on a permitted for hire boat (which should cover most or all guide/charter boats).
How much does the license cost? The cost is $10, for both residents and non-residents alike. The license is good for the calendar year. Note that anglers age 60 or older are required to have a license but are not charged for it.
Where can I buy a license? You can buy a license by mailing or filling out a paper application at a very limited number of state licensing offices. I expect most people will forgo that route and instead choose to buy one online .
Is my Massachusetts license good outside of Massachusetts? At this writing Massachusetts has reciprocal agreements with Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. A salt water license from any of these states can be used to fish in the other three.
Commentary to follow. 😯