Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 1476

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Modifying provisions with regard to nonsalmon charter licenses.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake and Kretz.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires a charter boat operator to acquire a salmon charter license to fish for albacore tuna.

Hearing Date: 2/5/07

Staff: Jaclyn Ford (786-7339).

Background:

A charter license is required from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) in order to operate a vessel where paying customers fish for shellfish or food fish [RCW 77.65.010]. A salmon charter license is required to fish for salmon and shellfish [RCW 77.65.150]. No new salmon charter licenses have been authorized for issuance since May 28, 1977 [RCW 77.70.050]. A salmon charter license can be acquired if transferred from a current salmon charter license holder. In addition, the salmon charter license survives the death of the holder and may be transferred as personal property through inheritance [RCW 77.65.020].

Current salmon charter license holders may either renew their license each year, or notify the WDFW to hold their license for renewal the following year. According to the DFW, there were 141 salmon charter licenses in 2006.

A charter boat licensed in Oregon may fish in designated Washington waters without a Washington license, but are subject to Oregon's own fishing quotas [RCW 77.65.150]. Recreational fishers must have a recreational license to fish for albacore tuna [RCW 77.32.010].

There is an annual fee of $685 for nonresidents and $380 for residents. Both residents and nonresidents are subject to a $100 salmon enhancement surcharge as well [RCW 77.65.150].

Summary of Bill:

The operator of a charter boat wishing to fish for albacore tuna must acquire a salmon charter license.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 1, 2007.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.