Title 46 United States Code Section 8903 requires operators of uninspected passenger vessels to have a Coast Guard issued license. Fishing Guides operating on certain “navigable waters of the United States” an accepting passengers for hire are required to have a Coast Guard issued license as an Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel.  Failure to comply with this federal requirement could result in fines of up to $25,000 per day of operation. The Federal Passenger vessel Safety Act of 1993 reaffirmed the requirement for the Secretary of Transportation to maintain a system of professional licensing for individuals operating vessels carrying passengers on the “ navigable waters of the United States”.

 If you are a Fishing Guide operating in the State of Tennessee, Alabama or Mississippi and you are not sure if you need a license, or you need additional information, contact the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment in Nashville, Tennessee at (615) 736-5421.