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. 😯
For those of you in the New England area, the Bear’s Den Fly Fishing Expo is coming up this Saturday, February 19, at the Holiday Inn in Taunton, Mass. Now in its 13th year, Scott and the rest of the Bear’s Den crew always put on a great show. And with free admission, free parking, and free programs the price is hard to beat. The show runs 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed at 7 by the Fly Fishing Film Tour which by all accounts is fantastic. (Seating for the film tour is limited–you can reserve a seat at the link below.) There’s a raffle to helps to cover costs which this year includes one of Jack’s flies mounted and autographed and a boxed selection of Jack’s striper flies. So if you’re there why not buy a ticket to support the show!