Five recreational fishing vessels were cited by the U.S. Coast Guard over the weekend for not having federal permits to target whats known as highly migratory species, which includes tuna.
The crew of the Cutter Rollin Fritch found the violations while conducting routine boarding operations off Oregon Inlet, Coast Guard public affairs announced Tuesday.
The identity of the vessels was not included in the news release.
Recreational fishing in federal waters without the appropriate permit violates the Magnuson-Stevens Act, and carries fines of up to $3,750.
“Applying for and maintaining a Federal Fisheries Permit and abiding by appropriate catch limits facilitates NOAA’s ability to regulate overfishing, keeping the species healthy,” said Lt. Brittany Fifer, Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Rollin Fitch. “The Federal Fisheries Permit program levels the playing field for all fisherman.”
Information about fishing permits, including the acquisition process, can be found on the National Marine Fisheries Service website, or by calling 888-872-8862.
Editor’s note: The Coast Guard incorrectly identified the vessels as commercial boats in an earlier version of their press release.
