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Fishing License Required for Surf Casting?

by David
(CT)

Question: Do I need a fishing license to surf cast in the Bay in North Truro or surf cast off Race Point? Thank You.

Dee's Reply: Hi David - The simple answer is "Yes, probably". But there's more to it than that.

The easiest way I can answer your question is with a few questions of my own:

  1. How old are you?

    Massachusetts' saltwater fishing permit requirements apply to everyone aged 16 and older.

  2. Do you have a CT saltwater fishing license?
    If you do, then you'd fall under the reciprocity agreement between MA and CT. Basically, what that means is:

    As long as your saltwater license is valid in Connecticut, it'll be honored for fishing salt waters here in Massachusetts, too.

  3. When will you be here?

    Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries has designated Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19, 2016 as "Free Fishing Days".

    On those two days, everyone is allowed to fish in Massachusetts' salt waters (out to the 3-mile limit) without a permit.

    So, if you'll be surf casting into the Atlantic Ocean waters off Race Point or Cape Cod Bay in Truro on either or both those days, no need to be concerned about licenses or permits. You're good to fish!

For more info, have a look at my MA Fishing License page. And please feel free to get back to me if you have more questions!

Tight Lines,

Dee


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Cape Cod Surf Fishing
by: Anonymous

[Question:] Hello, I will be in the cape this weekend. I am under 16 and am wondering if I need any permits or licenses. I need responses ASAP. Thank You.


[Dee's Reply:] Hi!

Since you haven't yet turned 16 years of age, you won't need a MA saltwater fishing permit. That's the case whether you're surf casting from a beach, a jetty or a pier, or fishing from a boat.

If you also plan to fish in one of the freshwater ponds or lakes on the Cape, you might need a freshwater license. In Massachusetts, anyone who's age 15 or older is required to have a license to fish in fresh water.

I hope this information helps. Have fun this weekend!

Tight lines,

Dee

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