Electronic Reporting and Online Permitting Information for Federally Permitted Lobstermen

Below is information to answer some commonly asked questions as we shift to electronic reporting and online permitting in the future. 

Do I Need to Submit Trip Reports?

• We are implementing electronic reporting requirements for much of the commercial fishing industry in our region.
• If you hold any GARFO fishing permit in addition to your lobster permit, you must report all of your fishing activity, including lobster fishing, in both state and federal waters.
• We strongly recommend that you start reporting electronically as soon as possible. See our eVTR webpage for more information.
• If you hold only a GARFO issued American lobster permit, you do not have to report your fishing trips to us; however, state agencies may have their own reporting requirements.   
• Following a recommendation by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, we may establish a vessel trip reporting requirement for lobster-only permit holders in future years.

How Do I Renew My Permit?

• You may go online to renew your GARFO vessel permit for 2021.
• Go to our Vessel Permitting webpage for instructions.
• To renew your permit online, you will need a Fish Online account. 
• Instructions for creating an account are found on our How to Create an Account in Fish Online and Link to a Vessel webpage.
• If you don’t apply online, we will mail a 2021 paper renewal application to you.

Questions?

For more information, go to our Fishing Industry Home page or for assistance contact your local Port Agent.