NOAA Sets $15 Fee for the National Saltwater Angler Registry

NOAA will be charging a $15 fee for anglers registering with the National Saltwater Angler Registry as of Jan. 1, 2011.

In some cases, fishermen are exempt from the new fee. Anglers in 22 of 24 coastal states do not need to register or pay a fee since those states have agreements to share fishing license or registry information with NOAA for data collection purposes.

For recreational fishermen in Hawaii, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands who are required to register, there's still time to register for free. Registration is free for those who sign up or renew their registrations before the end of the year.

For more information or to register, go online at www.CountMyFish.noaa.gov or call toll-free at (888) 674-7411.