Feds Demand Detailed Logs from High Seas Pirates? Wait, Fishermen
Published Date: 3/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The government is asking to keep collecting info from U.S. fishing boats that work in international waters. These boats must apply for permits, keep fishing logs, and mark their vessels properly. About 586 businesses are affected, and the paperwork takes a little time but helps keep fishing fair and legal.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
40-Hour Fishery Authorization Request Burden
If you request authorization to fish a particular fishery on the high seas, preparing that request takes about 40 hours per request. This 40-hour preparation is part of the same information collection (OMB Control Number 0648-0304) and applies to U.S. vessels subject to the High Seas Fishing Compliance Act.
Mandatory High Seas Fishing Permit
If your U.S. fishing vessel operates on the high seas, you must hold a High Seas Fishing Permit under the High Seas Fishing Compliance Act. Applicants must submit vessel identification (including a photo), owner/operator information, intended fishing areas, and gear; 586 businesses are affected and permit applications take about 15 minutes each. The collection is controlled under OMB Control Number 0648-0304 and occurs every five years or on occasion.
Ongoing Logbook and Reporting Duties
Vessels fishing on the high seas must complete logbook reporting and other notices such as transshipment reports, power-down/power-on requests, and observer notifications. Report types listed include transshipment notices (about 1 hour), power-down/on requests (10 minutes), and observer notifications (5 minutes); total annual burden hours are 121 for all respondents.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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