Vessel Documentation Fisheries Endorsement
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Definition
Feb 2, 2024 - A fisheries endorsement in USCG vessel documentation terms entitles a vessel to engage in commercial fishing activities. This includes processing, storing, domestic transporting, planting, cultivating, catching, taking, or harvesting fish, shellfish, marine animals, pearls, shells, or marine vegetation in the navigable waters of the United States or in the Exclusive Economic Zone.
Meaning
In order to conduct commercial fishing activities in territorial waters of the United States and its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a vessel must carry on board a USCG certificate of documentation showing a fisheries endorsement on its face.
Context
Vessel documentation is required for all qualified vessels that weigh over 5 net tons (WikiTags) in order to participate in commercial fishing activities. Although a vessel may be designed for commercial fishing, that fact alone does not mean that the vessel is being used for such purpose. However, an operator should be prepared to convince the boarding officer otherwise in the event of an inspection. See WikiLinks for owner and vessel fishery endorsement requirements.
Conclusion
Having the proper endorsements should be taken very seriously as violations can result in heavy fines and potential impoundments.
Credits and References
Feb 2, 2024 - Page revised..
