To all saltwater fishermen,
 
You've probably heard something already about the National Saltwater Angler Registry, but I wanted to take this chance to remind you of this new law and encourage you to make sure you're registered before you fish if you're required to do so.
 
Basically if you're fishing in Federal waters OR for anadromous fish like shad, stripers and river herring - or even if you MIGHT CATCH an anadromous fish - you HAVE to register before you put your line in the water UNLESS one of the following applies to:    

• You have a valid license from an exempted state, or are a resident of an exempted state and aren't required to have a license (e.g., as is sometimes the case for seniors or active-duty military).
• You are under 16.
• You ONLY fish from licensed for-hire boats.
• You have a current and valid HMS permit.
• You are FISHING UNDER a current and valid commercial license.
 
Since the Federal registration went into effect, numerous states have revised their saltwater fishing laws. If you're not sure whether your state is exempt, DON'T GUESS. Visit www.countmyfish.noaa.gov for a current listing.  Two other important things to know are:  

• Registration is FREE in 2010.  
• You CAN BEGIN FISHING IMMEDIATELY once you register online at www.countmyfish.noaa.gov or by phone at 1-888-MRIP-411

WHY REGISTER?
The fact is that as of January 1, registration is the law. While NOAA is currently focusing more on education than enforcement, you can face stiff penalties for not registering. Just as important however, is the fact that in the end registration will help saltwater fishermen in three important ways:

1. Registration is one tool NOAA is using to get BETTER DATA about how many fish we're actually catching, and the health of the stocks. If fishermen fail to register THIS YEAR, it could mean SUBSTANTIAL DELAYS in implementing survey improvements.
2. Better data will mean BETTER MANAGEMENT. While this may not translate into longer seasons or higher bag limits, it WILL help to ensure predictability, fairness and appropriate representation of recreational fishing interests in management decisions.
3. Registration will provide the A MORE ACCURATE ACCOUNTING of the size and scope of the recreational fishery. This information will be invaluable as we promote our interests based on the true economic and marine stewardship impact we have.
 
So whether you supported registration or opposed it, the fact is that it's the law and we'll all benefit if we all participate.
 
Don't delay. Register today. And have a great summer.

- NOAA Fisheries