1. License required. A person may not engage in the activities authorized under this section without a current for-hire charter boat operator's license.
2. Licensed activity. The holder of a for-hire charter boat operator's license may take paying passengers recreationally fishing for fish in the coastal waters of the State on the vessel identified on that for-hire charter boat operator's license. The license does not authorize the holder or the holder's passengers to sell any fish taken under this license.
3. Agent fees. A fee may not be charged for a for-hire charter boat operator's license under this section. A person seeking a license through an agent may be charged an agent fee of $2. A person seeking a license through a publicly accessible online electronic system for licensing may be charged an agent fee of $1. A person seeking a license at an office of the department from a department employee may be charged an agent fee of $1.
4. Eligibility. A for-hire charter boat operator's license may be issued only to an individual. A for-hire charter boat operator's license may be issued to an individual only if the individual:
A. [PL 2025, c. 570, §1 (RP).]
A-1. Possesses a valid United States Merchant Mariner Credential issued by the United States Coast Guard indicating an endorsement authorizing the individual to carry passengers for hire; or [PL 2025, c. 570, §2 (NEW).]
B. Holds a current guide license for tidewater fishing as provided by rule pursuant to section 12853. [PL 2025, c. 155, §5 (NEW); PL 2025, c. 155, §6 (AFF).]
5. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.