A Simple Guide to Commercial Fishing Permit Renewal

When you own a fishing business, there’s more to do than hit the water and make the day’s catch. You also need to make sure that your permits are current and accurate. Commercial fishing permit renewal must be done before the expiration date so that you aren’t caught on the water without a valid license. If that happens, you could be subject to fines and penalties that can be expensive and time-consuming. Use this guide to help you complete the renewal process in an efficient and timely manner. 

When Is Renewal Required?

Fishing is a seasonal endeavor, with some breeds being more prevalent and easier to catch during specific times of the year. If you fish for more than one species, you may need a separate permit for each. With that in mind, you might notice that renewal happens at various times of the year, based on which permits you hold. When you renew properly, you stay in compliance with state and federal laws. The most important thing you can do is check the expiration dates for your permits and keep up with them accordingly. Submitting renewal well ahead of time is the best way to ensure that you don’t have an expired permit, but a 30-day temporary permit can sometimes be used if time gets away from you. 

Completing Your Renewal

Fortunately, completing your renewal application is fairly easy to do. In today’s digital world, you can get through the entire process online, including paying any necessary fees. The online application takes some of the guesswork out of the documentation. Simply insert the appropriate information when prompted. Make sure you double-check all of the data you input before submitting. Errors can result in a longer processing time and additional fees. One of the biggest benefits of applying for your renewal online is that it’s faster. You don’t have to download the form and fill it out before sending it through the mail and waiting for approval. Instead, you can submit immediately and speed up the process from start to finish. 

Tips for Renewal

Renewing your commercial fishing permit doesn’t have to be a difficult or overwhelming process. With the following tips, the entire process should go smoothly and you’ll have your new permits in hand well before the expiration date of the current ones.

• Double-check spelling and other information for accuracy and fix any mistakes you find.
• Set up a calendar with alerts that let you know when your commercial fishing permits are due to expire. 
• Be sure you choose the right forms for renewal and get them started at least a month before the expiration date on your current permits. 
• If you fill out the form on paper, be sure you use ink (not pencil).

Commercial fishing permit renewal is an important part of being a responsible commercial fishing business owner. If you need help facilitating the process or have questions and concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the Commercial Fishing Permits Center today. We’re here to assist you through the renewal process.