Does a Spectator Need a Fishing License?

November 21, 2019

Question: Do all persons on a vessel need to have fishing licenses and lobster cards?  My daughter wants to go with her dad and watch (which means I’ll have to go as well) but we aren’t sure if she and I would need our own license/cards just to go along. We are not going to be fishing – just spectating. (Bonnie)

Answer: No, as long as you’re not attempting to fish (and that includes handling lines and nets, helping bring in catch, etc.), you don’t need a license on the boat.

Also, fishing licenses are only required for those age 16 and older. If your daughter is younger than that, she is welcome to help her father – no license needed, but she will still need a lobster report card!