House Bill No. 835, introduced by Representative Schamerhorn, aims to establish a charter guide wildlife management area (WMA) access permit, allowing charter fishing guides to operate within WMAs. The bill amends existing law by adding a new provision that permits charter boat fishing guides to purchase an annual access permit for $100, which will satisfy WMA access requirements for both the guide and their clients during for-hire fishing trips. The permit will be valid for one year, starting January 1 and expiring December 31 of the same calendar year.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of charter boat fishing guides, including the completion of a landing report detailing their fishing activities, while ensuring that the information remains confidential. It also introduces penalties for violations of the provisions related to the charter guide WMA access permit, including fines and requirements for offenders to use a vessel monitoring system. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB835 Original: 56:9(H)
HB835 Engrossed: 56:9(H)