State won’t spare the rod
Planned hunting, fishing license fee increases to jump by up to 200%
The Gun Owners’ Action League and others are protesting proposed increases in MassWildlife’s freshwater fishing, hunting and trapping license fees — with some rates jumping 200% or more.
“This dramatic increase request comes at a rather troubling time,” the league said in a statement. “It is GOAL’s opinion that before we agree to any further fee increases, some serious issues need to be addressed.”
Under the proposal, a fishing license for a Massachusetts resident would increase from $22.50 to $40 per year.
The costs of licenses and permits to hunt bear, turkey, pheasant, waterfowl, small game and deer, including archery and muzzleloader seasons, would increase from $47.70 to $160. A complete list of the proposed fees, which would go into effect next year, can be found on the MassWildlife site.
“During this COVID-19 period, we have … experienced our government targeting our industry, by specifically and intentionally shut (sic) down firearm retailers and access to mandatory training including hunter education,” GOAL said in a statement. “These deliberate attacks were not from a grateful government, but rather a hateful and spiteful one. Given this attitude toward us, why would we agree to feed the beast even more?”
But MassWildlife Director Mark Tisa said the fee increases are necessary.
“We couldn’t conserve fish and wildlife in Massachusetts without the support of hunters, anglers, and trappers. We recognize this has been a difficult year for everyone, and we don’t make this proposal lightly,” Tisa said in a statement. “Responsible fiscal management gave us 25 years without fee increases, however it’s critical for us now to address MassWildlife’s current and future financial needs.”
The department has scheduled Zoom meetings this month for the public to ask questions and learn more about why license increases are needed, Tisa said. MassWildlife expects to hold public hearings later this spring.
On Wednesday, March 17, at 6:30 p.m., people can join a Zoom session and again on March 25 at 6:30 p.m. There are links to both Zoom sessions on the agency website.
License fees support MassWildlife’s education programs, scientific management of fish and wildlife, trout and pheasant stocking, and the management of more than 226,000 acres of wildlife lands open to the public for hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife watching.
But Tom Falasca, a fisherman and owner of Tom’s Bait and Tackle in Saugus, said the proposed hikes will hurt his business.
“It’s going to deter people from fishing and hunting,” Falasca said. “People may just go to another state where the licenses are cheaper.”