February 12, 2021 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
Below is information to answer some commonly asked questions as we shift to electronic reporting and online permitting in the future.
Do I Need to Submit Trip Reports?
- We are implementing electronic reporting requirements for much of the commercial fishing industry in our region.
- If you hold any GARFO fishing permit in addition to your lobster permit, you must report all of your fishing activity, including lobster fishing, in both state and federal waters.
- We strongly recommend that you start reporting electronically as soon as possible. See our eVTR webpage for more information.
- If you hold only a GARFO issued American lobster permit, you do not have to report your fishing trips to us; however, state agencies may have their own reporting requirements.
- Following a recommendation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, we may establish a vessel trip reporting requirement for lobster-only permit holders in future years.
How Do I Renew My Permit?
- You may go online to renew your GARFO vessel permit for 2021.
- Go to our Vessel Permitting webpage for instructions.
- To renew your permit online, you will need a Fish Online account.
- Instructions for creating an account are found on our How to Create an Account in Fish Online and Link to a Vessel webpage.
- If you don’t apply online, we will mail a 2021 paper renewal application to you.