Explore these helpful links to help you navigate the sea of information available on Cape Cod about charter boats, fishing licenses, resources, and more.
For a detailed checklist of requirements for Operators of Uninspected Passenger Vessels, commonly known as Six Pack, as developed by the U.S. Coast Guard. This invaluable resource covers crucial information on drug testing, licensing, and safety requirements. Charter boat captains are encouraged to utilize this checklist at the beginning of each season. Make sure that you comply with the latest regulations.
Requirements For OPUV (Six Pack)
Charter Boat Inspection Checklist
Commercial Fishing Vessel Requirements Checklist
Other Helpful Links
OUVP Safety Inspection
This program offers a voluntary free exam whose goal is to provide information to keep people safe on the water. Some of the features of this exam are the required safety equipment, recommended equipment, recent changes in regulations, proper documentation and licensing, and a lot more to ensure that you meet all current Coast Guard requirements. Contact Roy Jerman at: sroyj@yahoo.com and (508) 322-1224. Coast Guard Auxiliary District Staff Officer for Marine Safety and Environmental Protection
USCG Commercial Vessel Safety Inspection
USCG Commercial Vessel Safety Inspection – Free Safety Check Inspection on any commercial fishing vessel that intends to sell its catch. Contact Scott Maccaferri at (774) 392-4849 email-Scott.D.Maccafferi2@USCG.MIL Scott will schedule a time to inspect your boat and ensure you meet all the current safety regulations. This service is FREE.
More information for commercial requirements can be found here: http://www.fishsafewest.info/
Current Recreational and For Hire Size Limits
Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulations
DMF makes every attempt to keep these regulations tables accurate and up to date. This is an “unofficial” copy. The Secretary of State maintains the official copy of the 322 CMR. You can buy an official copy from the state bookstore. Here is more information on ordering a copy of 322 CMR visit the Secretary of State website.
DMF also provides annual recreational fishing posters for private anglers and for-hire vessels that specify the seasons, bag limits, and size limits for popular recreationally caught species. You can download these posters below.
East Coast Fishing Coalition
Advocates for “Catch and Release” Fisheries, and “Game Fish” statuses have been preached for so long it’s become household terminology amongst the public. We must educate the public as to why this has been preached and why it is wrong. Together, we can keep fish on the menu.
Stellwagan Bank Charter Boat Association
The Stellwagen Bank Charter Boat Association, SBCBA is a non-profit organization within the charter boat industry, created to provide a forum for members in the for-hire sport fishing industry; and to provide a unified voice to preserve and protect the rights, traditions, and future of saltwater fishing; to provide education to members concerning fishery regulations, fishing techniques, better business practices and vessel compliance and safety requirements; to promote sport fishing and collaboration among members; to promote marine conservation, advancement of science, education and sustainable fishery management practices.
Stellwagon Bank Charter Boat Association
Connecticut Charter Party Boat Association
We represent the Connecticut charter and party boat fishing industry. As an association of well-respected captains, we advocate for our collective business growth and legislative rights regarding the for-hire industry.
Connecticut Charter Party Boat Association
Northeast Charterboat Captains Association
The dissemination of information to, and exchange of information between operators of small passenger vessels for the enhancement of the Charterboat business. To pursue programs and address issues pertinent to operators of small passenger vessels, and to work towards solving problems that may be unique to this segment of the industry.
Northeast Charterboat Captains Association
National Association of Charterboat Operators (NACO)
NACO, the national association of charter boat owners and operators was formed in 1991. Representing thousands of individuals across the United States, our membership includes marine charters who provide fishing, sailing, diving, eco-tours, and other excursion vessels that carry passengers for hire. The premiere association represents charter boat interests, to improve the professional charter boat operator’s bottom line and to provide a strong voice in Washington, DC.
National Association of Charterboat Operators
Marine Insurance
Whether you own a marina, a boat dealership, or operate passenger vessels, your business may be subject to various risk exposures specific to the marine industry. At Brown & Brown, we will work to understand your needs and help you navigate the current market to identify a program that will help limit your unique exposures.
Brown & Brown Marine Insurance
New England Maritime – Captains Courses & Exams
New England Maritime offers several approved Courses. Captain’s Course, Launch Tender – Limited Master, Boating Safety, CPR, First-Aid, Master 25/50 100 Ton, Towing Endorsement, and Auxiliary Sail Endorsement. Coast Guard Approved Live via Zoom with Proctor Exam by Appointment in Hyannis, MA.
Fishing Partnership
Fishing Partnership – Fishing Partnership is a non-profit support services organization dedicated to improving the health, safety, and economic security of commercial fishermen and their families. Founded in 1997, we bring critical support services and programs to more than 20,000 New England fishing families. The partnership has 4 offices in Gloucester, New Bedford, Plymouth, and Chatham. They deliver Health and Wellness, Safety at Sea, and Economic Security support services in the communities where fishing families live.
