Atlantic Bluefish
About
Permit Categories
Category 1: Commercial
Vessel that fishes for, catches, possesses, transports, lands, sells, or trades bluefish.
In 2017, we issued 2,266 Category 1 permits.
Category 2: Recreational
Vessel that carries passengers for hire.
In 2017, we issued 819 Category 2 permits.
More Information
Control Date: May 29, 1997
Commercial Operator Permit: Operator cards are required for any operator of a charter/party boat or a commercial vessel (including carrier and processor vessels) issued a vessel permit from the Greater Atlantic Region and fishing for or in possession of fish.
Commercial Dealer/Processor Permit: Bluefish may be sold only to persons possessing a valid federal bluefish dealer permit.
How to Obtain a Federal Fishing Permit: Anyone with a valid vessel operator’s permit can obtain a federal bluefish permit.
Species Covered By This Permit
- Atlantic Bluefish
How to Apply
All permits are free of charge. Go to Fish Online to apply online.
For assistance, please contact our Permit Office by emailing us at NMFS.GAR.Permits@noaa.gov or by calling (978) 282-8438.
What Happens After You Submit
After we process an online permit application, you will need to print your permit from your Fish Online account. We will not be mailing paper permits back to you once your permit has been issued.