4 Common Questions About Commercial Fishing Permits

Do you have a passion for fishing? Is your ideal day spent out on the water, angling with your friends or loved ones? If so, you may be thinking about turning your pastime into a career. Commercial fishing can be lucrative if demanding work. A multi-billion dollar global industry, the demand for fresh seafood is evergreen, and if you are looking to turn your fishing skills into dollars, there are a few things to know before you get started. Knowing the facts about commercial fishing permits can be a good place to start.

With so much money to be made in commercial and industrial fishing, it is no wonder that it is a rather tightly-regulated industry. This is the case for a few different reasons. For one, it maintains a level playing field for competition in the market. For another, it protects fisheries and our waters from overfishing and pollution. And, additionally, it serves as a safety measure by maintaining a record of who is on federal or state waters and what they are fishing for.

Who Issues Commercial Fishing Permits?

Federal commercial fishing permits are issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This government agency is tasked with issuing fishing permits, as well as monitoring the weather and issuing forecasts. The NOAA employs a great number of scientists and researchers, so their regulatory efforts are carefully researched and well-reasoned.

If you are fishing in state waters, you will want to seek the proper commercial fishing licenses from your local agency. Each state has its own rules and regulations about commercial fishing, so it is in your best interest to get acquainted with your local laws.

Are There Different Types of Licenses?

There are a number of different federal commercial fishing licenses available. For their part, the NOAA delineates its license options by region. Those regions include Alaska, the Atlantic, the South, the West Coast, and the Pacific Islands. Each territory will have an array of different permits available, often separated by species. For example, there are permits for Atlantic Tuna and licenses for Alaska Rockfish.

Do I Need a State or Federal Permit?

The permits that you need will depend not only on what you are catching but also on where you are fishing. State waters encompass the area from zero to three nautical miles from shore. Federal waters cover the territory from three to 200 nautical miles out. If you are on state waters, you will want to seek the appropriate state licenses. Conversely, federal waters will warrant NOAA permits. Many commercial fishing businesses will find themselves operating in both jurisdictions.

How Can I Get My Permits Online?

You can get your commercial fishing permits online by working with us at the Commercial Fishing Permits Center. We are a private service that helps business owners like yourself obtain the licenses, endorsements, and permits you need. If you would like to learn more about the services we provide, please take a moment to browse our site, or contact us by phone or email today.