What is a Highly Migratory Species Permit and How to Get One?

If you want to know more about using a highly migratory species permit, you are in the right place. This type of permit is issued by the NOAA and can be used by commercial and recreational fishermen to fish for highly migratory species of fish in federal waters. This includes some of the most valuable fish on the market, such as tuna, billfish, sharks and swordfish. 

Commercial Fishing Permits Regions

When you apply for a commercial fishing permit, it’s important to pay attention to which region you’re applying for. You can apply for more than one if you plan to fish in more than one location, but you must have the appropriate permit for the place you’re fishing, or you could face penalties and fines. The NOAA recognizes the following regions as you apply for your commercial fishing permit:

• Alaska
• New England/Mid-Atlantic
• Pacific Islands
• Southeast
• West Coast
• International

Steps to Obtain a Highly Migratory Species Permit

Use the following steps to help you obtain the migratory species permit that you need for your fishing needs. 
Determine the right type of permit – refer to the regions list above, but also make sure you get any special permits required for fishing for certain species.

1. Review the permit requirements – have a look at what’s required for the permit you are applying for. The rules can change so stay aware if anything needs to be changed on your part. 
2. Apply online – these days it’s easy to apply for a commercial fishing permit online, where you can also pay the associated fees, making the process quick and efficient. 
3. Complete the application – as you complete the permit application, be sure you input the correct information and double check everything before you submit it. 
4. Pay the application fees – nearly all commercial fishing permits will cost a fee. If you apply online, you can pay the fee when you submit the application. Your application will not be considered until the fee is paid. 
5. Provide supporting documentation – depending on the type of commercial fishing permit you apply for, you may also be asked to provide additional documentation. This could include vessel registration, owner information and other paperwork pertaining to your boat. Having it all in order and ready to go will streamline the application process and prevent having to fix errors, which can result in additional fees. 

It’s important to follow the proper steps when you apply for a commercial fishing permit so that you get a valid and accurate permit for the type of fishing you want to do, as well as to cover the region where you plan to fish. If you need more than one permit, you will need to apply for each separately, as well as pay the fee that goes with each. 

If you need help applying for a highly migratory species permit, we are here to guide you through the process. Contact the Commercial Fishing Permits Center today for all of the assistance you need, including facilitating the documentation and answering your questions.