Starts April 1, 2024
NOAA Fisheries is implementing electronic Vessel Trip Reporting (eVTR), including five additional lobster-specific data elements, for all Federal lobster permit holders using a Great Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office (GARFO) approved eVTR application. Implementation of eVTRs will begin on April 1, 2024, with the requirement that all eVTRs must be completed through the effort section of the reporting app prior to landing and submitted to GARFO within 48 hours of the conclusion of a fishing trip.
Vessel operators will be able to submit their catch reports on multiple reporting platforms (see below). We recommend lobster vessel operators download one of the apps as soon as possible so they can become familiar with entering their catch information. The current NOAA Fish Online (FOL) iOS app does not support lobster reporting. Vessel operators who are currently submitting eVTR’s through the iOS app will need to download and install the Fish Online Web app through their FOL account.
A Few Reminders for Vessel Operators and Federal Seafood Dealers
- Anyone submitting eVTR’s on any of the available apps will also need to have a valid GARFO vessel operator permit. If a vessel operator does not have an operator permit, they can apply for a permit using their FishOnline account. If they need assistance with this, they can reach out to a Port Agent or contact our permit office by email NMFS.GAR.Permits@noaa.gov or by calling (978) 282-8438.
- The reporting device is required to be on board the vessel while fishing, and all trip reports must be completed through the effort and catch portion of the eVTR before they enter port. All trips must be submitted to GARFO within 48 hours of landing.
- Vessel operators are responsible for giving the dealer(s) the 14 digit eVTR number created on their reporting app.
- Federal dealers are required to report that eVTR number on all federal dealer reports. The eVTR number is how GARFO matches the trip report to the corresponding dealer report.
Where Can I Find More Information?
For more information on vessel trip reporting, reporting requirements, reporting options, and detailed “how-to” instructions and videos by reporting app, please visit: Vessel Trip Reporting in the Greater Atlantic Region | NOAA Fisheries. GARFO Port Agents are available to assist with the Fish Online app and to answer any fisheries reporting requirement questions. We will be available in person to assist vessel operators at the Maine Fishermen's Forum and the Massachusetts Lobstermen's Association Annual Weekend in March. You can also call the vessel reporting helpdesk at 978-281-9188 with any reporting questions you may have.
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